Calculator and tax paperwork representing deductions

TurboTax Deluxe (Desktop / Download)

The best-selling desktop edition — deductions plus a state download.

$80approx. — federal, see official site for current pricing

Approximate price for the Federal + State download bundle; includes 5 federal e-files. State e-file may cost extra (printing/mailing is free). Confirm on the official site or retailer.

HomeownersItemizersFamilies filing multiple returnsOffline-software fans

Links go to the official TurboTax site or retailers. We are an independent guide, not Intuit.

Heads up: InstallTurboTax.us is an independent, taxpayer-friendly help site. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Intuit Inc. or TurboTax®, and we are here only to make your tax software easier to use. Always verify pricing and features on the official TurboTax site. Full disclaimer.

Key features

  • Everything in Basic, plus a full deduction maximizer
  • Often includes one state product download
  • Schedule A itemized deductions
  • 5 federal e-files; extra forms for common credits
  • ItsDeductible donation valuation

Specifications

PlatformDesktop (Windows / Mac download or CD)
Federal e-files included5
State includedOften one state download (Federal + State edition)
State e-fileMay be extra (~$25); print & mail is free
Itemized deductionsIncluded
Investments / self-employmentPremier / Home & Business recommended

Pros

  • The best-value desktop edition for most households
  • Usually bundles in a state download
  • Strong deduction tools, plus five federal e-files

Cons

  • State e-file can cost you extra on top
  • Not ideal if you have investment sales (get Premier)
  • You'll need to repurchase each tax year

The desktop crowd's default pick

If desktop TurboTax has a flagship, this is it. Deluxe adds the full deduction-finding toolkit on top of Basic and, in its most popular form, ships as a Federal + State bundle that includes one state download. Pair that with five federal e-files and you've got strong value if you're a homeowner who also files for a couple of family members.

One thing to budget for: while a state download is included, the state e-file fee (around $25) is sometimes separate. You can dodge it altogether by printing and mailing the state return for free.

Frequently asked questions

Does TurboTax Deluxe desktop include state?

The popular 'Federal + State' version includes one state program download. E-filing that state may cost an extra fee, but printing and mailing it is free.

Is desktop Deluxe enough for stocks?

If you're reporting a lot of investment sales, the desktop Premier edition is the better fit. Deluxe focuses on deductions and credits.

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