Can I retrieve and save on my computer my tt20 backup file from my 2020 online tax return now that I'm using the cd/download software for my 2021 return?

[TurboTaxSusan · Accepted solution]

No. TurboTax Online has no way of saving to the .ttxx file format. TurboTax CD/Download can only import or open .ttxx files.

You can still print or download a PDF copy of your TurboTax Online return. Please see this TurboTax FAQ for instructions: In the online edition of TurboTax, how do I print a copy of my tax return?

[primax2544]

I appreciate the reply TurboTax Susan. 

Many cloud companies like Google and Microsoft give the option to download an output file in different formats.  In this scenario, what good is a pdf because it can't be imported as you pointed out.

Intuit can re-design their cloud tax programs to permit downloading a ttxx file in addition to the pdf, but they have chosen to not to.  As a long-time Client, that is horrible since it takes control out of my hands!

[TurboTaxSusan]

Thank you for your input. I will pass on your comments to our product development team.

[mnovar1913]

I thought turbotax kept pdf files of tax returns

[primax2544]

Yes, a pdf file is created as an output and you can save this to your cloud drive or onto your own device such as a desktop pc.  However, the following tax year, the software that you buy at, say Costco for $30, cannot be used because it needs a .tt21 backup file as input to "start a new return using data from the previous tax year".  Intuit online does not create a .tt21 output file because your tax data is available online for 7 years.  It cost me $180.76 to complete 4 tax returns this year.  Last year it was #29.99 plus taxes for up to 8 returns.  A total cash grab now because it cost money to host all those cloud servers, staff, etc.  I would rather host my own backup .tt21 files for 7 years.

[vhodowan]

Why can't this be allowed?   Is Intuit giong to fix this problem and allow to interchange between Online or CD/downloaded version to obtain your TT20 files and past or future? 

[primax2544]

Precisely my thoughts!  The answer will be no unless Intuit faces massive backlash from clients like us.

[billybee]

Very disappointing considering the US version allows it.

[lobstertrapquota]

So if I have files from 2014-2019, did 2020 online, I now I have to start from scratch in 2021?

Had I known this, I would not have done the online one last year.

Not impressed.