You've found yourself in a common TurboTax predicament, haven't you? Perhaps you started with Deluxe, thinking you needed all those bells and whistles, only to realize your tax situation is simpler than you anticipated, or maybe you just want to save a few bucks. Whatever the reason, you're now looking to "downgrade" or "remove" TurboTax Deluxe.
It's important to understand that TurboTax operates a bit differently when it comes to downgrading. Unlike some software where you can simply click a "downgrade" button and magically revert, TurboTax online versions often require a more direct approach, especially if you've already started entering data. For desktop versions, the process is usually about starting a new return with a different product.
Let's break down how to navigate this situation, step-by-step.
How to Downgrade or "Remove" TurboTax Deluxe: A Comprehensive Guide
The path you take depends heavily on whether you're using TurboTax Online or the TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download) version, and how far along you are in your tax return.
For TurboTax Online Users: Resetting Your Return
If you're using TurboTax Online, the primary method for "removing" Deluxe and switching to a lower-tier product (like Free Edition or Basic) is to clear and start over. This effectively wipes your current return data, allowing you to choose a different product from the beginning.
Step 1: Assess Your Progress and Decide
Have you paid for your TurboTax Deluxe return yet?
If NO: You're in luck! Clearing and starting over is your easiest option.
If YES: Unfortunately, once you've paid or registered your product, the "Clear & Start Over" option is usually unavailable. In this case, you'll likely need to contact TurboTax Customer Support directly to discuss your options. They may be able to offer a credit or guide you through an alternative solution, though a direct "downgrade" button isn't typically available.
Have you filed your return?
If YES: You cannot downgrade or change your product after filing. Your return has been submitted to the tax authorities.
How much data have you entered?
Consider if starting from scratch is feasible. If you've only entered a few details, it might be quick to re-enter them into a new, lower-tier product. If you've spent hours, you might want to explore alternatives or contact support.
Step 2: Clear Your Return (If Eligible)
If you haven't paid or registered, this is your go-to method.
Sub-step 2.1: Access "Tax Tools"
Sign in to your TurboTax Online account.
Once you're in your return, look for the "Tax Tools" option in the left-hand menu. It's usually a black or dark-colored bar.
Click on "Tax Tools" to expand the menu.
Sub-step 2.2: Select "Clear & Start Over"
From the expanded "Tax Tools" menu, select "Clear & Start Over".
You'll likely receive a warning message explaining that this action will delete all the information you've entered.
Confirm that you wish to proceed.
Sub-step 2.3: Choose Your New Product
After clearing your return, TurboTax will bring you back to the beginning of the tax filing process.
Carefully review the product options available. Often, TurboTax tries to guide you towards a higher-tier product. Look for options like "Free Edition," "Basic," or "Other Products" – sometimes these are in smaller print at the bottom of the screen.
Select the product that best suits your current tax situation and needs. This is where you effectively "remove" Deluxe by choosing a different, lower-priced option.
Proceed with entering your tax information into the chosen product.
Step 3: Contact TurboTax Support (If You've Paid or Cannot Clear)
If you've already paid for TurboTax Deluxe or the "Clear & Start Over" option isn't available, your best bet is to reach out to TurboTax customer support.
Sub-step 3.1: Gather Your Information
Have your TurboTax account details ready (username, email).
Be prepared to explain your situation clearly: that you purchased or upgraded to Deluxe but no longer need its features and wish to use a lower-cost option.
Sub-step 3.2: Initiate Contact
Visit the official TurboTax support website.
Look for options to "Contact Us," "Support," or "Chat."
Explain your request to a representative. They may be able to provide a refund or credit, or guide you through a specific process not otherwise accessible. Be polite but firm about your desire to change your product.
For TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download) Users: Starting Fresh
If you're using the desktop version of TurboTax (purchased as a CD or download), "removing" Deluxe typically means starting a new return with a different product version. You cannot directly "downgrade" an installed Deluxe software to a Basic version, for instance.
Step 1: Understand Desktop Version Limitations
Each desktop TurboTax version is a standalone program. If you bought and installed Deluxe, that's the program you have. You can't just "switch" it to Basic from within the software itself.
The good news is that all TurboTax desktop editions generally contain the same forms, schedules, and worksheets. The higher-priced editions primarily offer more guidance and support. So, if you've already entered data in Deluxe, you might be able to transfer that data to a new return opened in a Basic version.
Step 2: Acquire the Desired Lower Version
If you want to use a lower version (e.g., TurboTax Basic), you'll need to purchase and install that specific version.
Ensure you do not install it over your existing Deluxe version unless instructed otherwise by TurboTax support. It's often best to install it as a separate program.
Step 3: Transfer Your Data (Optional but Recommended)
This is the most crucial step if you've already invested time in your Deluxe return.
Sub-step 3.1: Save Your Deluxe File
Open your TurboTax Deluxe program.
Go to "File" and select "Save As...".
Save your
.tax[year]file to a location you can easily find (e.g., your Documents folder, a USB drive). Give it a clear name.
Sub-step 3.2: Open Your New (Lower) TurboTax Program
Launch the newly installed, lower-version TurboTax program (e.g., TurboTax Basic).
When prompted to start a new return or open an existing one, choose to "Start a new return."
TurboTax will usually ask if you want to transfer data from a prior year's return. If your Deluxe file is from the same tax year you're now working on with the Basic version, you might have the option to import the
.taxfile.If prompted: Select the option to transfer data from a TurboTax file. Navigate to where you saved your Deluxe
.tax[year]file and select it.If not directly prompted: Look for an option like "File" > "Import" or "Tools" > "Transfer Data" within the new program.
Sub-step 3.3: Review and Continue
After the transfer, carefully review all the imported information to ensure accuracy.
Proceed with completing your tax return in the new, lower-version TurboTax program.
Step 4: Uninstall the Unwanted Deluxe Version (Optional)
If you no longer need the TurboTax Deluxe software taking up space on your computer, you can uninstall it.
For Windows:
Go to the Start Menu.
Type "Control Panel" and open it.
Select "Programs" then "Programs and Features" (or "Uninstall a program").
Find "TurboTax [Year] Deluxe" in the list.
Right-click on it and select "Uninstall". Follow the on-screen prompts.
For macOS:
Open Finder.
Go to "Applications."
Find the "TurboTax [Year] Deluxe" application icon.
Drag the icon to the Trash in your Dock.
Empty the Trash.
Important Considerations:
Data Integrity: Always double-check your data after any transfer or "clear and start over" action. It's crucial for accurate tax filing.
Features Discrepancy: Remember that lower-tier products may lack certain features, guidance, or forms found in Deluxe. Ensure the chosen product can handle your specific tax situation. For example, if you have complex investments, the Free Edition might not be sufficient.
Backup: Before performing any major changes like clearing your return or uninstalling software, it's always a good idea to back up your current tax file.
Customer Support: When in doubt, TurboTax's official customer support is your best resource for personalized assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to: Downgrade TurboTax Online if I haven't paid?
You can use the "Clear & Start Over" option found under "Tax Tools" in the left-hand menu of your TurboTax Online account. This will erase all entered data and allow you to select a different product.
How to: Downgrade TurboTax Online if I've already paid?
Unfortunately, you generally cannot directly downgrade after paying or registering your product. You will need to contact TurboTax Customer Support to discuss potential solutions or credits.
How to: Transfer data from TurboTax Deluxe to a lower desktop version?
First, save your TurboTax Deluxe return file (.tax[year]). Then, install the lower version of TurboTax. When starting a new return in the lower version, look for an option to import or transfer data from a prior year's TurboTax file and select your saved Deluxe file.
How to: Uninstall TurboTax Deluxe from my Windows computer?
Go to the Control Panel, then "Programs" > "Programs and Features" (or "Uninstall a program"). Locate "TurboTax [Year] Deluxe," right-click, and select "Uninstall."
How to: Uninstall TurboTax Deluxe from my Mac?
Open Finder, go to "Applications," drag the "TurboTax [Year] Deluxe" application icon to the Trash, and then empty the Trash.
How to: Know if I need TurboTax Deluxe or a lower version?
TurboTax Deluxe is typically recommended for homeowners, those with significant deductions, and those who need to itemize. If your tax situation is simpler (e.g., W-2 income only, standard deduction), a lower version like Free or Basic might suffice.
How to: Get a refund if I bought the wrong TurboTax version?
If you mistakenly purchased the wrong TurboTax version, check their refund policy. You'll likely need to contact TurboTax Customer Support to inquire about a refund and then purchase the correct version.
How to: Prevent accidentally upgrading to Deluxe again?
When starting a new return, carefully review all product options presented. TurboTax sometimes defaults to recommending higher-tier products. Look for smaller links or "More Products" options to ensure you select the one you intend to use.
How to: Clear my TurboTax Online return and start fresh?
Sign in to TurboTax Online, go to "Tax Tools" in the left menu, and select "Clear & Start Over." Confirm your choice to delete the existing data.
How to: Find my saved TurboTax data files on my computer?
TurboTax data files typically end with the extension .tax[year] (e.g., .tax2024). By default, they are often saved in your "Documents" folder, within a "TurboTax" subfolder. You can also use your computer's search function to find files with this extension.
