Did you go to turbotax.ca/activate to use your code before you started your returns? You can see this TurboTax FAQ for step-by-step instructions: In TurboTax Online, how do I use a prepayment code? Please note that you can only use the code once in one account. Using the code again will give an error message.

Yes, I did go to  turbotax.ca/activate and followed the associated instructions. Once I was in TurboTax, the site noted I would need to pay an additional $21 per return.

When you login to your account, does it say that you have 8 returns remaining, or is there no return count?

I thought the same but when you review and confirm it will show your activation code and skip the need for further payment.

@jpgeddes To activate your TurboTax Online version please visit this link. Select that " I have an account" ,log into your account and proceed to the second step by adding your 16 digit activation code to review and activate the TurboTax Online product. Please note that the activation code can only be linked to one account, you cannot use it for multiple accounts.

Thanks for choosing TurboTax. 

I purchased the online deluxe edition includes 8 returns.     i have not activated it yet because i am unclear of the wording, `` Once you activate your purchase, you won’t be able to use this code with any other accounts.``  Can another person use the code to file their return on their own device?

@confused1011 No, they can't. All eight returns must be prepared and filed using the same login credentials, and the activation code can only be linked to one account.