Preparing and filing tax returns can often feel like navigating a complex maze. Thankfully, tools like TurboTax Deluxe aim to simplify this process. But a common question that pops up, especially for those managing taxes for family members or multiple entities, is: How many tax returns can I actually file with TurboTax Deluxe? Let's dive deep into this, exploring the nuances between the online and desktop versions, and guide you through the process.
Unlocking the Mystery: How Many Tax Returns Can You File with TurboTax Deluxe?
Are you ready to unravel the mystery of TurboTax Deluxe and its filing capabilities? Let's embark on this tax journey together!
The answer to how many tax returns you can file with TurboTax Deluxe isn't a simple, single number. It significantly depends on whether you're using the online (web-based) version or the desktop (CD/download) version of the software. Understanding this fundamental difference is the first crucial step.
Step 1: Identify Your TurboTax Deluxe Version
Before we go any further, take a moment to consider: Are you planning to use TurboTax Deluxe directly in your web browser, or have you purchased the software to install on your computer?
TurboTax Online Deluxe: This is the version you access through a web browser, without needing to install any software on your computer. Your tax data is stored securely in the cloud.
TurboTax Desktop Deluxe (CD/Download): This version involves purchasing and installing the software directly onto your personal computer (either via a CD or a digital download). Your tax returns are saved locally on your hard drive.
Your answer to this question is critical, as it dictates the number of returns you can file!
Step 2: Understanding TurboTax Online Deluxe Filing Limits
If you're opting for the convenience of TurboTax Online Deluxe, here's what you need to know about its filing limits:
One Return Per Account
The Golden Rule: With TurboTax Online (including Deluxe), you can only prepare and file one federal tax return per account and User ID. This is a strict limitation of the online platform.
Why the Limit? The online system is designed for individual users to complete their personal federal tax return. Attempting to start a second federal return under the same User ID will typically overwrite your first return, causing you to lose all your previously entered data!
State Returns: While you're limited to one federal return per online account, you can usually file multiple state returns that are associated with that single federal return. However, each different state return typically incurs an additional fee.
What if I Need to File for Someone Else Online?
New Account, New User ID: If you need to file a separate federal tax return for another individual (e.g., a spouse filing separately, a child, a parent), you must create a completely new and separate TurboTax Online account with a unique User ID for each additional return.
Email Address Flexibility: While each account needs a unique User ID, you can sometimes use the same email address for notification purposes across a limited number of different accounts (often up to five). However, remember, the User ID must always be distinct.
Cost Implication: Since each new account is essentially a new "purchase" of the TurboTax Deluxe online service, preparing multiple returns this way will mean paying the Deluxe fee for each federal return you file.
Step 3: Exploring TurboTax Desktop Deluxe Filing Freedom
Now, if you've chosen the TurboTax Desktop Deluxe (CD/Download) version, you're in for some good news when it comes to filing multiple returns:
Prepare Unlimited Federal Returns
Unlimited Preparation: With the desktop version of TurboTax Deluxe, you have the incredible flexibility to prepare an unlimited number of federal tax returns on the single software installation. This is a significant advantage for families or individuals who manage taxes for others. You can create and save as many different federal tax files as you need on your computer.
Cost-Effective for Multiple Filers: This makes the desktop version highly cost-effective if you intend to prepare returns for yourself, your spouse, children, parents, or anyone else. You pay for the software once, and you can prepare as many federal returns as necessary.
E-Filing Limitations: The IRS Rule
While you can prepare an unlimited number of federal returns, there's a crucial distinction when it comes to e-filing:
Five Free Federal E-Files: The TurboTax Desktop Deluxe software typically includes five free federal e-files. This means you can electronically submit up to five federal tax returns without an additional charge.
IRS Limit, Not TurboTax: This limit of five federal e-files is not a TurboTax restriction, but rather an IRS-mandated limit for individuals using personal tax preparation software. The IRS limits the number of federal returns that can be e-filed from a single IP address/software instance.
Beyond Five E-Files: Print and Mail: If you need to file more than five federal returns using the desktop version, any returns beyond the initial five must be printed, signed, and mailed to the IRS. While this requires a bit more effort, it's still possible to prepare them using your single TurboTax Deluxe desktop purchase.
State Returns with Desktop Deluxe
One State Program Included: TurboTax Desktop Deluxe usually comes with the ability to download one state tax program at no additional cost. This allows you to prepare an unlimited number of state returns for that specific state.
E-Filing State Returns: There's typically an additional fee to e-file each state return (even the first one). However, to avoid this fee, you always have the option to print and mail your state returns for free.
Multiple States: If you need to prepare returns for different states, you will likely need to purchase additional state tax programs within the TurboTax Desktop software, each incurring a separate fee.
Step 4: Key Considerations and Best Practices
To make the most of your TurboTax Deluxe experience, keep these pointers in mind:
Choosing the Right Version: If you anticipate filing multiple federal tax returns (e.g., for family members), the desktop (CD/Download) version of TurboTax Deluxe is unequivocally the more economical and practical choice. For a single individual filing their own return, either version works well.
Data Security: With the desktop version, your data is stored locally on your computer. Always ensure you have robust security measures in place (antivirus, strong passwords) and regularly back up your tax files to an external drive or cloud storage. For online versions, TurboTax handles security, but always use strong, unique passwords.
System Requirements: Before purchasing the desktop version, double-check that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the software to ensure smooth installation and operation.
Upgrading: If you start with a lower-tier TurboTax product and realize your tax situation requires more features (like those found in Deluxe), you can usually upgrade within the software, and your existing data will transfer.
By understanding these distinctions, you can confidently choose the TurboTax Deluxe version that best suits your needs and maximize its utility for all your tax filing requirements.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are 10 frequently asked questions, focusing on "How to," with quick answers to further guide you:
How to determine if I need TurboTax Deluxe?
Answer: You likely need TurboTax Deluxe if you itemize deductions (e.g., mortgage interest, property taxes, charitable contributions), have significant medical expenses, or want to maximize your deductions and credits beyond the standard deduction.
How to create a new TurboTax Online account for another person?
Answer: Go to the TurboTax website, log out of your current account, and then select "Start for Free" or "Get Started" to create a completely new account with a unique User ID and password for the other person.
How to find my TurboTax Desktop tax files on my computer?
Answer: By default, TurboTax Desktop files are saved with a
.taxextension. You can use your computer's search function (e.g., Windows Explorer or macOS Finder) and search for files with*.taxto locate them. They are often found in a "My Documents" or "Documents" folder.
How to print and mail a federal tax return from TurboTax Desktop?
Answer: After completing your return in TurboTax Desktop, navigate to the "File" section. You'll typically see an option to "Print & Mail" your federal return. The software will generate the necessary forms and provide mailing instructions.
How to avoid state e-filing fees with TurboTax Desktop?
Answer: To avoid state e-filing fees, simply choose the option to "Print & Mail" your state tax return instead of electronically filing it when prompted in the software.
How to transfer last year's tax data into TurboTax Deluxe?
Answer: Both online and desktop versions of TurboTax typically offer an option to import your prior year's tax data, especially if you used TurboTax in the previous year. This usually happens automatically when you start a new return or by selecting an "Import" option.
How to get help if I have a complex tax situation with TurboTax Deluxe?
Answer: TurboTax Deluxe offers various support options, including a robust FAQ section, community forums, and the ability to upgrade to TurboTax Live Assisted (for live expert help) or TurboTax Live Full Service (where an expert does your taxes for you).
How to recover a forgotten TurboTax User ID or password?
Answer: On the TurboTax login page, look for "Forgot User ID?" or "Forgot Password?" links. Follow the prompts to recover or reset your credentials, which usually involves verifying your identity via email or phone.
How to ensure my tax return is accurate with TurboTax Deluxe?
Answer: TurboTax Deluxe includes a "CompleteCheck" feature that scans your return for common errors and missed deductions before you file. Additionally, TurboTax offers a 100% accurate calculations guarantee.
How to amend a tax return filed with TurboTax Deluxe?
Answer: If you need to amend a previously filed return, open the original tax file in TurboTax Deluxe. There will be an option (usually in the "Tools" or "My Info" section) to "Amend a filed return." The software will guide you through the process of making corrections and filing Form 1040-X.
