TurboTax is a widely used tax preparation software that offers various plans to cater to different tax situations. Sometimes, as you progress with your tax return, you might realize that the plan you initially chose no longer fits your needs. Perhaps your tax situation became more complex, or you discovered you qualify for a simpler plan. Changing your TurboTax plan is often possible, but the exact steps and limitations depend on several factors, including the type of plan you have (online or desktop), whether you've paid, and if you've used any expert assistance.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of changing your TurboTax plan, ensuring you choose the right option for your tax filing needs.
Changing Your TurboTax Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to get your taxes squared away with the right TurboTax plan? Let's dive in!
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| How To Change Turbotax Plan |
Step 1: Understand Your Current Situation & Desired Change
Before you click any buttons, it's crucial to understand why you want to change your plan. Are you looking to:
Upgrade to a higher-tier plan because your tax situation became more complex (e.g., you started a small business, invested in stocks, or have rental income)?
Downgrade to a lower-tier plan because you realized your taxes are simpler than anticipated, or you want to save money?
Switch from a "Live" product (with expert assistance) to a "Do-It-Yourself" version?
Move from TurboTax Online to TurboTax Desktop (or vice-versa)?
Knowing your goal will help you navigate the specific options available to you.
Step 2: Access Your TurboTax Return
To initiate any plan change, you'll need to be logged into your TurboTax account and have your current tax return open.
For TurboTax Online:
Go to the TurboTax website (turbotax.intuit.com).
Click on "Sign In" and enter your user ID and password.
Once logged in, open the tax return you are currently working on.
For TurboTax Desktop:
Open the TurboTax software on your computer.
Open your existing tax file.
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
Step 3: Navigating the "Switch Products" or "Clear & Start Over" Options
This is where the process can diverge based on your desired change and how far along you are in your return.
Sub-step 3.1: Downgrading Your TurboTax Online Plan
If you're looking to move to a lower-priced TurboTax Online product (e.g., from Deluxe to Free Edition, or from Live Assisted to a DIY version), TurboTax often provides a "Switch Products" or "Downgrade" option.
Open your return in TurboTax Online.
Look for the left-hand menu.
Scroll down and locate "Switch Products." Click on it.
If available, you should see an option to "Downgrade." Select this.
Follow the on-screen prompts. TurboTax will guide you through the process, often informing you if any information you've already entered is not supported by the lower-tier product. You may need to remove certain entries to complete the downgrade.
Important Note on Downgrading from Live Products: If you started with a TurboTax Live product (e.g., Live Basic, Live Deluxe, etc.) and wish to downgrade to a non-Live version, you must not have used the "Ask a Tax Expert" or "Expert Review" features. If you have already engaged with an expert, the downgrade option may not be directly available, and you might need to consider clearing your return and starting over (see Sub-step 3.3). Some users have reported needing to downgrade twice – first from Live to the equivalent non-Live product, and then from that non-Live product to a lower tier.
Sub-step 3.2: Upgrading Your TurboTax Online Plan
Upgrading is generally more straightforward than downgrading. TurboTax is designed to prompt you to upgrade if you enter information that requires a higher-tier product.
Simply continue working on your tax return.
As you input details (e.g., investment sales, self-employment income, rental property income), if the information necessitates a more advanced plan (like Premier or Self-Employed), TurboTax will usually present a pop-up or notification indicating that you need to upgrade.
You'll then have the option to review the new plan's features and cost and confirm the upgrade.
Your data will automatically carry over.
Sub-step 3.3: "Clear & Start Over" - A Last Resort or Specific Scenario
In some cases, especially for downgrades or if you've made significant errors and want a fresh start, the "Clear & Start Over" option is your best bet.
When to Use "Clear & Start Over":
You want to downgrade, but the "Switch Products" or "Downgrade" option isn't available (e.g., after using expert assistance in a Live product).
You've entered a lot of incorrect information and want to wipe the slate clean.
You've chosen an online product but decide you want to use the Desktop (CD/Download) version instead.
How to "Clear & Start Over" (TurboTax Online):
Open your return.
In the left menu, select "Tax Tools."
Choose "Clear & Start Over."
Confirm your decision when prompted. Be aware that this action will delete all information you've entered for that return.
After clearing, you can then select the desired TurboTax product (Free Edition, Deluxe, etc.) and begin your return again.
Caveats for "Clear & Start Over":
You cannot use "Clear & Start Over" if you have already paid for your TurboTax Online product, deducted the TurboTax fee from your refund, or filed your return. At this point, you would need to manually edit your return or potentially file an amended return after it's been processed by the IRS (for filed returns).
If you're moving from Online to Desktop, after clearing your online return, you can download the Desktop software and use the "Continue From TurboTax Online" option to import some of your data.
Tip: Patience makes reading smoother.
Step 4: Consider TurboTax Desktop Options
If you're currently using TurboTax Online and want to switch to a CD/Download version (Desktop), or vice versa, the process is a bit different.
Online to Desktop:
First, consider if you've paid for your online product. If not, you can use the "Clear & Start Over" method (as described above) in your online account.
Purchase and install the desired TurboTax Desktop software.
When setting up your Desktop return, look for an option to "Continue From TurboTax Online" or import data from a previous year's TurboTax Online return. This can help transfer some basic information, though you'll still need to review and potentially re-enter details.
Desktop to Online:
While less common, if you decide to move from Desktop to Online, you generally cannot directly import a Desktop file into the online platform.
You would need to start a new return in TurboTax Online and manually input your information.
Important: Ensure you do not file both returns! Choose one platform to complete and file your taxes.
Step 5: Review and Confirm
After making any changes to your plan, always take a moment to:
Review your tax return carefully. Ensure all your income, deductions, and credits are accurately reflected.
Check the fees. Confirm that the price reflects the new plan you've selected.
Understand the features. Make sure the new plan still supports all the forms and features you need for your specific tax situation.
If you are unsure at any point, remember that TurboTax offers help resources, including their support community and direct customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Changing TurboTax Plans
Here are 10 common questions about changing your TurboTax plan, with quick answers:
How to Downgrade from TurboTax Live to a DIY product?
You can downgrade from a TurboTax Live product if you haven't yet used the expert advice features. Look for "Switch Products" in the left menu and select "Downgrade." If you've used expert help, you may need to "Clear & Start Over" (if you haven't paid or filed).
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
How to Upgrade my TurboTax Online plan?
Simply continue entering your tax information. If you input data that requires a higher-tier product (e.g., investments, self-employment), TurboTax will automatically prompt you to upgrade.
How to Change TurboTax plan after paying?
Unfortunately, you generally cannot change your TurboTax plan after you have paid for it. If you need a different plan, you might need to start a new return and pay for the new plan, or contact TurboTax support for specific assistance.
How to Clear and Start Over in TurboTax Online?
In your open return, go to "Tax Tools" in the left menu, then select "Clear & Start Over." Confirm your decision to erase all entered data and restart with a clean slate. This is only possible if you haven't paid or filed.
How to Switch from TurboTax Online to Desktop?
If you haven't paid for your online return, you can "Clear & Start Over" online. Then, purchase and install the Desktop software and choose the option to "Continue From TurboTax Online" to import basic data.
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
How to Remove Premium Services Bundle in TurboTax?
If you've added the Premium Services bundle and haven't used its features or completed your order, you might find an option to "Remove" it when reviewing your fees or payment options. If you've used the features, it may not be removable.
How to Get a Refund if I bought the Wrong TurboTax Version?
If you purchased the wrong TurboTax Desktop software from a retailer, you'll generally need to contact the retailer for their refund policy. For TurboTax directly, check their refund policy on their website or contact customer support.
How to Change my TurboTax plan if I already filed?
Once you've filed your tax return, you cannot change the TurboTax plan for that specific return. If you discover an error or missed information, you will need to file an amended return using Form 1040-X after your original return has been processed.
How to Know Which TurboTax Plan I Need?
TurboTax usually guides you to the appropriate plan based on the information you enter. Generally: Free for simple returns, Deluxe for itemized deductions, Premier for investments/rental income, and Self-Employed for business income. Review the features of each plan on the TurboTax website before starting.
How to Contact TurboTax Customer Support for Plan Changes?
You can contact TurboTax support by signing into your account, navigating to "Help" or "Contact Us," and selecting your preferred method (chat, phone, community forums). The phone number is typically 1-800-4INTUIT (1-800-446-8848).
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