TurboTax Service Codes for January 2026

Applying a TurboTax code works a little differently from your typical online checkout. If you’re wondering where to plug your code in, here’s a step-by-step guide to unlocking your TurboTax discount:

1. Sign up or sign in to your Intuit account and start your return like normal. 
2. Add in your information, go through deductions (TurboTax lets you work through your return before paying).
3. When you reach the payment screen, look for the “Have a coupon or service code?” field. 
4. Enter your code exactly as it appears, and hit apply. 
5. Your total will drop immediately, and you can complete your filing process.

Some offers automatically apply if you’ve accessed TurboTax through a referral link. These should still show up at checkout, but if they don't, try using the original link again.

What if My TurboTax Coupon Code Isn’t Working?

As TurboTax codes work differently from most retailers, it's not unusual to run into some issues. Here's what to check before giving up:

—Make sure you’ve entered the code correctly. It sounds simple, but TurboTax coupon codes are case-sensitive, and an extra space or character will stop it from working. To avoid any mistakes, copy and paste the code instead. 

—Check the coupon matches the service level. If you have a discount code for TurboTax’s Expert Assist, it won’t work on the Expert Full Service package. 

—See if you’re doubling up on discounts. If you already used a referral link, another code probably won't stack. You'll need to pick whichever saves you more.

—Be sure you meet the requirements. If you’re already a TurboTax customer, new customer promotions won’t work on your order. 

—Try another code. If you’ve gone through all the above and your code still isn’t working, try another TurboTax discount code from our list.

If your taxes are simple and straightforward, you can use TurboTax’s Free Edition and not pay anything for filing. Around 37% of taxpayers with simple W-2 income qualify for this free service. So, if you’re filing a Simple Form 1040 with standard deductions, and maybe claiming something like Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, or Student Loan Interest, filing for both federal and state taxes is free. 

As this service is made for simple uploads, like W-2s. All you’ll need to do is upload a photo of your W–2, and TurboTax will autofill your info, saving you time and potential headaches.

Use the TurboTax App to File for Free Even with Complex Taxes

If you're thinking about switching from the tax service you used last year, here's the push you need: new TurboTax customers can file completely free through the mobile app if they finish by February 28, 2026. 

This TurboTax promotion covers federal and state taxes for all situations, as long as you're doing it yourself (not using their expert services). The only requirement is that you didn't file with TurboTax last year.

Military members (E-1 through E-9) get completely free federal and state filing, no matter how complex your taxes are. Whether you've got multiple W-2s, investment income, or rental property, it's all covered. 

Simply upload your military W-2 from DFAS, verify your rank, and the discount applies automatically when you file. It's TurboTax's way of saying thank you for your service.

If you are a new customer, you can get TurboTax's Expert Full Service for just $150. This price covers both federal and state taxes if you file by February 28, 2026.

With this service, you hand over all your documents, and a tax professional does your entire return while you're free to do anything else. During peak tax season (January through mid-April), experts are available seven days a week from 5 AM to 9 PM PT, meaning you can get help when it fits your schedule.

The regular price is significantly higher, often up to $300, depending on complexity. So if you value your time, TurboTax's Expert Full Service is more than worth it.

TurboTax's referral program lets you earn up to $500 by referring up to 20 friends. Each friend who files using your referral link gets 20% off TurboTax federal products, while you get a $25 gift card to select retailers. You'll receive each $25 gift card within 45 days of your friend completing their purchase. 

Your friends must be new to TurboTax to get the discount, and the referral rewards have some restrictions on which TurboTax products qualify. 

If you're a student or have recently graduated, you can get education credits and deductions worth over $1000 with TurboTax. The software automatically checks your eligibility for the American Opportunity Tax Credit, Lifetime Learning Credit, and student loan interest deduction—all of which can put real money back in your pocket. 

All you need to do is answer a few questions about your tuition and student loans, and TurboTax calculates the rest. 

If you prefer working offline and file multiple returns, TurboTax Desktop software might actually save you money. Each desktop license includes up to five federal e-files, so you can file for yourself and help up to four other people using the same software. 

Currently, the software prices are discounted from their regular rates:

—Deluxe is $70 (down from $80)

—Premier is $105 (down from $115)

—Home & Business is $120 (down from $130) 

Sometimes the timing just doesn't line up perfectly. Maybe you need to file now, but you're not quite ready to pay out of pocket. With TurboTax, you can choose to have your filing fees deducted directly from your federal or state refund for a $40 service fee. It’s not the cheapest option, but it can be a helpful way to file now and pay later.

When can you start filing taxes in 2026?

The IRS began accepting 2025 tax returns on January 26, so you can submit your return as soon as you have all your tax documents together. The federal filing deadline is April 15, 2026.

What is covered in TurboTax’s Free Edition?

TurboTax Free Edition is designed for simple returns. That usually means W-2 income, limited interest or dividend income, and taking the standard deduction. 

Which tax situations are not included in TurboTax Free Edition?

More complex situations, such as self-employment, freelance income, itemized deductions, rental properties, stock sales, cryptocurrency, and some tax credits. TurboTax typically flags this during the process and prompts you to upgrade when it detects forms or income types that fall outside the Free Edition's support.

What is TurboTax’s refund advance? 

TurboTax Refund Advance lets you access part of your expected refund early, often within minutes after the IRS accepts your return. Eligible filers can receive $250 to $4,000, with no interest or loan fees, through opening a checking account with Credit Karma Money™.

Does TurboTax offer military discounts?

Yes. Active-duty military members are eligible for federal and state filing through TurboTax Military. 

What is the cheapest way to get TurboTax?

The cheapest way to use TurboTax in 2026 is to qualify for the TurboTax Free Edition. You can also save by using a TurboTax discount code, filing through the app, or buying TurboTax Desktop software on sale.