I am self-employed, and my husband is unemployed. Do I still have to pay $120 to file taxes using TurboTax?

[TurboTaxAniqua]

If you are preparing a joint return, you will have to pay for the same version for both that you are using to prepare both returns. If you do not wish to pay the same, then you would have to create separate returns using the TurboTax free/deluxe version for your spouse. Please note that creating a joint return helps married couples/common-law partners to maximize their credits.

By filing together, you’re given the opportunity to pool your charitable donations and medical expenses, which can result in a larger claim than if these were reported separately.

For instance, if either you or your spouse earned a lower income, claiming the spouse or common-law partner amount may be beneficial. This is particularly useful if one spouse has little or no income.

You can also transfer credits like the age amount, pension income amount, and the disability amount to your spouse if you’re unable to fully utilize them. For families, the advantage of combining child care expenses can lead to substantial savings.

Thank you for choosing TurboTax.

[Nobody Special]

"If you do not wish to pay the same, then you would have to create separate returns using the TurboTax free/deluxe version for your spouse. "

Why would she need to use a Deluxe version to file someone who is unemployed?

[TurboTaxSusan]

@Nobody Special If you are preparing a joint return, you will be using the same version of TurboTax for both spouses. If one spouse wants to use a different version, then you would have to create separate returns. 

[Nobody Special]

If you are married and/or commonlaw...In Canada don't you have to file an associated return?

[TurboTaxSusan]

@Nobody Special 

No. Unlike in some other countries, Canada doesn't have joint filing for spouses/partners. 

TurboTax allows you to prepare you and your spouse/partners returns together to make it easier to claim credits & deductions, but you can prepare them separately. You still are required to enter some of your spouse/partner's info on your tax return, though.

[Nobody Special]

"You still are required to enter some of your spouse/partner's info on your tax return, though."

That is what is referred to as an "associated return". While you can file separately, if you want, you still have to declare your marital status and include income details of your spouse.

TT just makes it easier to do this by combining it into a "so-called joint" return for convienience.