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Buyer's Guide - Should I use TurboTax Online or Desktop?

Choosing between TurboTax Online and Desktop can be difficult if you don’t have all of the details. With TurboTax Online you can prepare your return and e-file from any computer with Internet access. TurboTax Desktop needs to be installed on your personal computer.

We have listed the major differences between TurboTax Online and Desktop below. Take a moment to review the differences before you pick one.

Purchasing the product

  • Online - Free to try. Don't pay until you print or e-file.
  • Desktop - Purchase software on CD from a retail store or directly from TurboTax. Or, purchase over the Web for download.

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Accessing or installing the product

  • Online - Nothing to install. Prepare your return and e-file from any computer with Internet access.
  • Desktop - Install purchased product from a CD or download and install on your personal computer.

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System requirements

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Storing your return

  • Online - Store your tax information securely online for access from multiple computers.
  • Desktop - Save your tax information to your computer or disk.

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Completing your return

  • Online - Step-by-step Interview questions make tax preparation simple.
  • Desktop - Step-by-step Interview questions and the ability to view and complete tax forms just as they appear on paper.

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Multiple returns

  • Online - E-file, or print and mail, unlimited federal returns as long as each has a unique User ID and Password.
  • Desktop - Prepare and print multiple returns. E-file up to five federal returns.

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State returns

  • Online - E-file up to three state returns per federal return filed electronically. (Each federal and state return is paid for separately and the cost of e-filing is included.)
  • Desktop - E-file up to three state returns per federal return filed electronically. (Note that each federal and state e-file must be paid for separately.)

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Updating the product

  • Online - Updates are automatic—no downloads required.
  • Desktop - Download updates from the Web.

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