Navigating the TurboTax Pricing Maze
TurboTax offers a range of tax filing options, including a free edition designed for simple tax returns. However, some users encounter unexpected charges despite selecting the Free Edition. This guide will delve into the potential reasons for these charges and provide clear instructions on how to remove them.
Identifying the Source of the Charges
To determine why you are being charged for TurboTax Free Edition, carefully review your fees. Here are some common reasons for unexpected charges:
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Unintentionally Selecting a Paid Version: Ensure that you have selected the Free Edition and not accidentally upgraded to a paid version.
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Additional Services: TurboTax offers additional services such as PLUS Help & Support, Pay With Your Refund, Premium Services Benefits, and MAX Defend & Restore. These services come with additional fees. Verify that you have not opted into any of these services.
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State Filing Fees: While federal tax filing is free with TurboTax Free Edition, state filing may incur a fee. Check if you have selected state filing and factor in any applicable state fees.
Removing Unwanted Charges
If you discover that you have been charged for unwanted services or state filing, follow these steps to remove the charges:
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Remove PLUS Help & Support: Click on “Remove PLUS Help & Support” to eliminate the additional support services.
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Remove Pay With Your Refund: Select “Remove Pay With Your Refund” to opt out of paying TurboTax fees with your tax refund.
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Remove Premium Services Benefits: Click on “Remove Premium Services Benefits” to remove any premium services that you may have accidentally added.
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Remove MAX Defend & Restore: Select “Remove MAX Defend & Restore” to remove the identity theft protection services.
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Remove a State: If you have selected state filing, click on “Remove a state” to remove the state filing fee.
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Clear and Start Over: If you prefer to start from scratch, select “Clear and start over” to reset your TurboTax session.
Eligibility for TurboTax Free Edition
To qualify for TurboTax Free Edition, your tax situation must meet certain criteria. Approximately 37% of taxpayers qualify for this free option. The Free Edition is designed for simple tax returns and supports Form 1040 with limited credits. If your tax situation is more complex, you may need to upgrade to a paid version of TurboTax.
Additional Resources
For further assistance, you can refer to the following resources:
Understanding the potential reasons for being charged for TurboTax Free Edition is crucial for resolving the issue and avoiding unnecessary expenses. By carefully reviewing your fees and following the steps outlined above, you can remove any unwanted charges and ensure that you are only paying for the services that you need. If you have any further questions or require additional assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to TurboTax support or consult the provided resources.
Why is TurboTax charging me to file my taxes?
FAQ
Does TurboTax charge a fee to file taxes?
Why won t TurboTax let me file free?
How do I not pay TurboTax fees?
Do you have to pay for TurboTax to file?
Did you get charged for using TurboTax?
You got charged, though you qualified for the no-cost version of TurboTax available through IRS Free File. According to state attorneys general, you would have qualified to use the Free File option for the tax years in question if you earned around $34,000 per year in adjusted gross income, or were a member of the U.S. military.
Can I file taxes for free with TurboTax free file?
If you make less than $34,000 per year, you can file your taxes for free with TurboTax Free File. This edition is required as part of the industry’s deal with the IRS. You can access the TurboTax Free File program here. TurboTax also offers a Free Edition for people who are filing very simple returns.
Does TurboTax offer e-filing?
E-filing helps the IRS process returns and issue refunds more quickly than a return filed by paper. TurboTax was but one partner in Free File. Those who selected TurboTax last year are able to opt for another online tax preparation service in the Free File program.
How do I remove a charge from TurboTax?
Review your fees to find out why you’re being charged. Then, follow the directions to remove any unwanted charge: Roughly 37% of taxpayers are eligible for TurboTax Free Edition. Form 1040 and limited credits only. Go here to see if you qualify.