Are you looking to streamline your tax preparation by filing multiple returns with TurboTax Online? Perhaps you're managing taxes for your immediate family, or maybe you're a responsible friend helping out with a simple return or two. Whatever your situation, understanding TurboTax's policies on multiple filings is crucial. Let's dive deep into how many tax returns you can file with TurboTax Online and provide a clear, step-by-step guide to navigate the process.
Understanding TurboTax Online's Multiple Return Policy: A Crucial First Step!
Before we even begin, let's address the most common misconception right off the bat: TurboTax Online is primarily designed for individual use, meaning one paid return per account.
However, there's a nuance that often causes confusion. While the online browser version typically allows one paid federal return per account, you can use the same email address to create up to five separate TurboTax Online accounts, each with its own unique User ID, to file up to five federal tax returns. Each of these returns will incur its own fee, unless it qualifies for the Free Edition. This is a key distinction from the TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download) software, which offers more flexibility for multiple filings under a single purchase.
The IRS also has a rule: you can generally e-file up to five federal returns using the same email address or phone number with personal tax preparation products. TurboTax aligns with this.
Now that we've cleared that up, let's explore the practical steps!
Step 1: Assess Your Filing Needs - Who Are You Filing For?
This is where it all begins! Before you even think about logging into TurboTax, take a moment to clearly identify whose tax returns you intend to prepare and file. Are you filing:
Just your own individual return? (Simple, no need for multiple accounts)
For yourself and your spouse (jointly)? (This is considered one return)
For yourself and a dependent child who has a simple return?
For multiple adult family members (e.g., parents, siblings)?
For friends or acquaintances? (Remember, TurboTax is not for commercial or professional tax preparation.)
Understanding the scope of your filing will directly impact your approach. If it's just you or you and your spouse, a single TurboTax Online account is all you need. If you're looking to help out multiple individuals, you'll need to follow a different path, as outlined in the subsequent steps.
Step 2: Choose the Right TurboTax Product - Online vs. Desktop
This is a critical decision that dictates your multi-filing capabilities. TurboTax offers two main platforms:
Sub-heading: TurboTax Online (Browser-Based)
Best for: Individuals filing their own taxes.
Multiple Returns: As mentioned, you can generally only file one paid federal return per TurboTax Online account. If you need to file for another individual, you will typically need to create a separate TurboTax Online account with a new User ID for each additional return. You can use the same email address for up to five such accounts. Each return will incur its own fee based on the version (Deluxe, Premier, Self-Employed, etc.) and any state filing fees.
Pros: Access from anywhere with an internet connection, automatic updates, convenient cloud storage of your returns.
Cons: Less flexibility for managing multiple distinct returns under a single purchase, requires creating separate accounts for each individual beyond the first (which can be a bit cumbersome).
Sub-heading: TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download Software)
Best for: Users who want to prepare and file multiple federal tax returns from a single software purchase, often for family members.
Multiple Returns: This is where the Desktop version shines! With a single purchase of the TurboTax Desktop software, you can typically prepare an unlimited number of federal returns and e-file up to five federal returns without additional federal e-file charges. For state returns, you usually pay a fee for each state e-file, but you can prepare multiple state returns for the same state with one software purchase.
Pros: Cost-effective for filing multiple federal returns, offers more advanced features (like Forms Mode), works offline once installed.
Cons: Requires installation on a specific computer, updates need to be downloaded, less convenient for accessing your tax files from multiple devices.
If you intend to file multiple federal returns for different individuals and want to minimize costs, the TurboTax Desktop software is generally the more economical and convenient option.
Step 3: Creating Separate Accounts (for TurboTax Online)
If you've decided to proceed with TurboTax Online for multiple individuals (keeping in mind the per-return fee), here's how you'll typically manage it:
Sub-heading: Step 3a: Log Out of Your Current Account
Crucial: If you've just filed your own return, ensure you completely log out of your existing TurboTax Online account. This prevents any accidental mixing of data or overwriting of returns.
Sub-heading: Step 3b: Create a New Account for Each Individual
Go to the TurboTax website and select "Start for Free" or "Sign Up."
When prompted to create a new account, use a new User ID for each individual whose return you're preparing.
Important Note: As mentioned, you can use the same email address for up to five separate TurboTax Online accounts. This can simplify account management for family members. However, each account must have a distinct User ID.
Follow the prompts to set up the new account, including a unique password.
Sub-heading: Step 3c: Select the Appropriate Product
Once logged into the new account, you'll be prompted to choose a TurboTax Online product. Select the version that best suits the tax situation of the individual whose return you're preparing (e.g., Free Edition for simple returns, Deluxe for itemized deductions, Self-Employed for business income).
Remember: Each paid return will incur its own cost.
Step 4: Data Entry and Preparation for Each Return
Now that you have your separate accounts (or are working within the Desktop software), it's time to prepare each return meticulously.
Sub-heading: Step 4a: Gather All Necessary Documents
For each individual, ensure you have all their relevant tax documents. This includes:
W-2s (for wage earners)
1099s (for independent contractors, investment income, etc.)
1098s (for mortgage interest, student loan interest, tuition)
Charitable contribution records
Medical expense records
Dependent information (Social Security numbers, dates of birth)
Any other income or deduction statements.
Having everything organized upfront will save you a lot of time and potential headaches.
Sub-heading: Step 4b: Navigate Through the Interview Process
TurboTax is designed with an intuitive interview process. Answer all questions accurately and completely for the current individual whose return you are preparing.
Double-check all entries: Typos can lead to significant errors or delays in processing.
Sub-heading: Step 4c: Save Your Work Frequently (Especially for Desktop Users)
If you're using the Desktop version, make it a habit to save your work frequently and to save each return with a distinct, easily identifiable name (e.g., "JohnDoe2024.tax", "JaneSmith2024.tax"). This prevents accidentally overwriting another return.
For Online users, TurboTax generally auto-saves your progress within your active session, but it's always good practice to ensure your work is saved before logging out.
Step 5: Review and File Each Return Individually
This is the final, crucial stage. Each return must be reviewed and filed independently.
Sub-heading: Step 5a: Thorough Review
Before filing, carefully review the entire return for each individual.
Look for any discrepancies, missing information, or potential errors.
TurboTax has built-in review checks, but a human eye is invaluable.
Sub-heading: Step 5b: Payment (for Paid Versions)
If you're using a paid version of TurboTax Online, you will be prompted to pay for the federal and/or state filing fees before you can e-file.
For Desktop users, the federal e-file for up to five returns is typically included, but state e-file fees may apply.
Sub-heading: Step 5c: E-file or Print and Mail
E-filing (Electronic Filing): This is the fastest and most secure method. Follow the prompts to e-file the federal and state returns for each individual. You'll receive confirmation once the IRS and state (if applicable) accept the returns. Remember the IRS e-file limit of five federal returns per personal tax preparation product using the same email or phone number.
Print and Mail: If you prefer or if e-filing isn't possible (e.g., for prior-year returns beyond the e-file window), you can print the complete return and mail it to the appropriate tax authorities. Ensure the individual whose return it is signs the printed copy before mailing.
Step 6: Keep Meticulous Records
Once filed, your responsibility isn't over. Proper record-keeping is essential.
Sub-heading: Step 6a: Save Copies of Filed Returns
Save a copy of each filed return (both federal and state, if applicable) in a secure location. Many people save both a PDF version and the TurboTax data file (.tax20XX).
For online users, your returns are typically stored within your TurboTax Online account, but having a local backup is always wise.
Sub-heading: Step 6b: Retain Supporting Documentation
Keep all supporting documents (W-2s, 1099s, receipts, etc.) for at least three years from the date you filed your original return or two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. The IRS can audit returns up to three years after filing.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 related FAQ questions, all starting with "How to," along with quick answers:
How to file a prior year's tax return with TurboTax Online?
Quick Answer: TurboTax Online generally only supports filing for the current tax year. For prior-year returns, you typically need to use the TurboTax Desktop software for that specific tax year or print and mail a return that you've prepared. The IRS only allows e-filing of prior-year returns by registered tax preparers for the two previous tax years.
How to start another return in TurboTax Online for a family member?
Quick Answer: You'll need to log out of your current TurboTax Online account, then go back to the TurboTax website and choose to "Sign Up" for a new account with a new User ID for that family member. You can use the same email address for up to five accounts.
How to switch from TurboTax Online to TurboTax Desktop for multiple filings?
Quick Answer: You can transfer your data from a TurboTax Online return to the Desktop software before paying for the online version. Look for an option to "Download your tax file" or "Save your return" as a .tax file within your online account, then open that file in the corresponding year's TurboTax Desktop software.
How to avoid paying multiple state e-file fees with TurboTax Desktop?
Quick Answer: While federal e-file is often included for multiple returns with TurboTax Desktop, state e-file typically incurs a fee per state return. To avoid this fee, you can print and mail your state tax returns instead of e-filing them.
How to ensure I'm getting the maximum refund when filing multiple returns?
Quick Answer: For each return, ensure you meticulously enter all income, deductions, and credits. TurboTax is designed to find these for you, but double-checking your inputs and understanding relevant tax laws for each individual's situation is key. Consider upgrading to a higher version if complex situations arise, or consult a tax professional.
How to check the status of multiple e-filed tax returns?
Quick Answer: For federal returns, you can use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool, entering the Social Security Number, filing status, and exact refund amount for each individual return. For state refunds, check your respective state's revenue department website.
How to transfer data from a previous year's TurboTax return to a new one for a different person?
Quick Answer: If you have the .tax data file from a prior year's return (prepared with TurboTax Desktop), you can usually open that file in the current year's Desktop software. For TurboTax Online, you generally cannot directly transfer data from one account to another for different individuals; you'll typically start fresh in each new account.
How to manage user IDs and passwords for multiple TurboTax Online accounts?
Quick Answer: It's crucial to keep a secure record of each unique User ID and password for every separate TurboTax Online account you create. Consider using a password manager for better organization and security.
How to know if a family member's income qualifies for TurboTax Free Edition?
Quick Answer: The TurboTax Free Edition is for simple Form 1040 returns with limited income types (e.g., W-2 income, unemployment). If your family member has itemized deductions, self-employment income, investments, or other complex tax situations, they will likely need a paid version of TurboTax Online. TurboTax will guide you to the appropriate product as you enter their information.
How to get help if I encounter issues filing multiple returns with TurboTax?
Quick Answer: TurboTax offers extensive online support, including a searchable knowledge base (TurboTax Help), community forums, and options to contact customer support via chat or phone, depending on your product and time of year.