Many TurboTax users start their tax preparation journey online for its convenience and accessibility. However, there are times when you might want or need to switch to the desktop version. Perhaps you prefer to work offline, want to take advantage of specific desktop features (like Forms Mode), or simply prefer the local storage of your tax data. Whatever your reason, transferring your TurboTax Online return to the desktop version is a common request.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing all the details you need to ensure a smooth transition.
Let's get started! Are you ready to take control of your tax filing experience by moving your data to your desktop?
Step 1: Understand the Core Difference and Prerequisites
Before we dive into the technicalities, it's crucial to understand a fundamental difference: TurboTax Online and TurboTax Desktop are separate products. This means that while you can transfer data from online to desktop, it's not a seamless "upgrade" where your online payment automatically applies to the desktop version. You will likely need to purchase the desktop version separately.
1.1 What You'll Need:
An active internet connection: While the desktop version allows offline work, you'll need internet access to download the desktop software and initially retrieve your online return.
Your TurboTax Online account credentials: Your username and password for the TurboTax website.
The appropriate TurboTax Desktop software: This is critical. Ensure you have purchased and installed the same tax year and the equivalent or higher edition of TurboTax Desktop (e.g., if you used TurboTax Online Premier, you'll want TurboTax Desktop Premier or Home & Business). You can typically purchase and download this from the official TurboTax website or buy a physical CD.
Sufficient storage space on your computer: For the desktop software installation and your tax data file.
1.2 Key Considerations:
Data Compatibility: TurboTax Desktop is designed to import
.taxdata files (e.g.,.tax2024for the 2024 tax year). When you download your return from TurboTax Online, it usually comes in this format.Pricing: As mentioned, you will likely need to purchase the desktop software even if you've paid for the online version. Some users report success in contacting TurboTax support to see if they can get a desktop download at no charge if they've already paid for the online version, but this is not guaranteed. It's always best to check their current policies.
State Returns: If you had a state return in TurboTax Online, you will likely need to download and install the corresponding state program within your TurboTax Desktop software.
Step 2: Save Your TurboTax Online Return
This is the most critical step to ensure your data is ready for transfer.
2.1 Access Your Online Return:
Go to the TurboTax website and sign in to your account.
Navigate to your current tax return. You should see an option to continue or access your return.
2.2 Save Your Tax Data File:
Look for an option to "Save your tax file", "Download your .tax file", or something similar. This option is usually found in the "Tools," "Tax Tools," or "Print Center" section within your online return.
Click on this option. TurboTax will then prepare and allow you to download a file with a
.taxXXXXextension (where XXXX is the tax year, e.g.,.tax2024).Choose a location on your computer where you can easily find this file, such as your "Documents" folder or a dedicated "Taxes" folder. Remember this location!
Important Note: Do not simply download a PDF copy of your return. While PDFs are great for records, they cannot be imported into TurboTax Desktop. You need the specific
.taxdata file.
Step 3: Install and Update TurboTax Desktop
If you haven't already, now's the time to get your desktop software ready.
3.1 Purchase and Download/Install:
If you bought a CD, insert it into your computer and follow the on-screen installation instructions.
If you purchased a download, locate the downloaded installer file (usually an
.exefor Windows or.dmgfor Mac) and run it. Follow the prompts to install the software on your computer.Enter your license code when prompted to activate the software.
3.2 Update the Software:
Once installed, open TurboTax Desktop.
Before doing anything else, it's highly recommended to update the program. TurboTax frequently releases updates to incorporate the latest tax laws, forms, and bug fixes.
Go to the "Online" or "Check for Updates" menu (the exact location might vary slightly based on your version) and run the update process. This may require restarting the software.
Ensure all available updates are installed to prevent potential issues during the import process.
3.3 Install State Programs (If Applicable):
If you had a state return in TurboTax Online, you'll need to install the corresponding state program in your TurboTax Desktop software.
Within TurboTax Desktop, look for a "State" tab or section, and follow the instructions to download and install your required state program. This usually requires an internet connection.
Step 4: Import Your Online Tax File into TurboTax Desktop
Now for the main event – bringing your data home!
4.1 Open TurboTax Desktop:
Launch the TurboTax Desktop application.
4.2 Start a New Return (or Open Existing):
If you're starting fresh, you'll typically see an option to "Start a new return."
Look for an option like "Import a TurboTax .tax file", "Transfer last year's return," or "Import from TurboTax Online." The exact wording may vary slightly.
If you don't see an explicit "Import from TurboTax Online" option immediately, proceed as if you're starting a new return. TurboTax often prompts you to import prior-year data early in the process.
4.3 Browse for Your Saved File:
When prompted to locate your tax file, navigate to the location where you saved the
.taxXXXXfile from Step 2.2.Select the file and click "Open" or "Import."
4.4 Follow On-Screen Prompts:
TurboTax Desktop will begin the import process. This may take a few moments.
You might be asked to confirm certain details or review the imported information. Pay attention to any messages or warnings that appear.
It's a good practice to quickly review key sections like your income, deductions, and credits to ensure everything transferred correctly.
Step 5: Review, Continue, and File
After importing, your work isn't done!
5.1 Thorough Review:
Go through your entire tax return carefully in TurboTax Desktop. Compare the figures and information with your online return (if you have a PDF copy) to ensure accuracy.
Pay close attention to any complex areas like investments, self-employment income, or rental properties, as these can sometimes be tricky during data transfers.
Utilize the "Forms" mode in TurboTax Desktop (if available in your edition) to review the actual tax forms. This can be very helpful for verifying data accuracy.
5.2 Make Any Necessary Adjustments:
If you discover any discrepancies or information that needs updating, make the changes directly within your TurboTax Desktop file.
5.3 Save Your Desktop File Regularly:
As you continue working, save your TurboTax Desktop file frequently. Go to File > Save or File > Save As to create a backup on your computer. This is a significant advantage of the desktop version!
5.4 File Your Return:
Once you are completely satisfied with your return, you can proceed with filing. TurboTax Desktop allows you to:
E-file your federal return (typically up to five federal returns are included).
E-file your state return (often an additional fee per state).
Print and mail your return.
Congratulations! You've successfully transferred your TurboTax Online return to the desktop version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to transferring TurboTax Online to Desktop, with quick answers:
How to check if I have the correct tax year for TurboTax Desktop?
Check the product packaging or the downloaded file name for the tax year (e.g., "TurboTax 2024"). It must match the tax year of your online return.
How to find my .tax file after downloading from TurboTax Online?
By default, it often saves to your computer's "Downloads" folder. Check there, or the location you chose when you clicked "Save" during the download process.
How to know which TurboTax Desktop edition to buy?
Purchase the equivalent or higher edition of what you used online. For example, if you used Deluxe online, get Deluxe or Premier desktop. This ensures all your forms and features are supported.
How to update TurboTax Desktop software?
Open TurboTax Desktop, go to the "Online" menu (or similar), and select "Check for Updates." Follow the prompts to download and install all available updates.
How to install a state program in TurboTax Desktop?
Within TurboTax Desktop, navigate to the "State" section. You'll find options to download and install the specific state program you need.
How to verify imported data in TurboTax Desktop?
Review key sections like W-2s, 1099s, deductions, and credits. You can also use the "Forms" mode to directly inspect the tax forms for accuracy.
How to amend a return after transferring it to desktop?
After filing, if you need to amend, open the saved
.taxfile in TurboTax Desktop, and then look for the "Amend" option within the software's filing or tools menu.
How to save my TurboTax Desktop file securely?
Go to "File" > "Save As" and save the
.taxfile to a secure location on your computer and consider backing it up to an external drive or cloud storage.
How to get help if my data doesn't import correctly?
First, ensure you downloaded the correct
.taxfile and have the correct tax year and edition of the desktop software. If issues persist, contact TurboTax support for assistance.
How to get a refund for my TurboTax Online purchase if I switch to Desktop?
This is not guaranteed. You will need to contact TurboTax customer support directly to inquire about their refund or credit policies when switching between online and desktop versions. It often depends on whether you've paid for and filed the online return.
