Filed extension with Turbo Tax, can I now file using another service or paper file instead?

You absolutely can use a different service or paper file! The extension you filed (Form 4868) simply gives you more time to file - it doesn't lock you into using the same preparation method or service. If you want to use another online provider, you can start from scratch with them. You'll need to enter all your information again since data doesn't transfer between companies, but you're free to choose any method you want. Just be aware that other online services may also charge similar fees for filing. Paper filing is completely free and a valid option. You can download the forms from the IRS website, fill them out, and mail them in. It takes longer to process (typically 6-8 weeks vs 2-3 weeks for e-filing), and there's a slightly higher chance of errors since you won't have software checking your math, but you'll save that $130. Just remember that the extension only gives you until October 15th to file, and you still need to have paid any taxes you owe by the original April deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

I was in almost the exact same situation last year waiting for a corrected 1099-MISC. I discovered taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) after getting frustrated with TurboTax's fees. It was seriously a game changer for me! Their AI actually scanned all my tax documents including the messed up form and the corrected one, explained the differences, and made sure I was filing everything correctly. It saved me so much time not having to manually enter everything into a new system. The best part was they helped me find deductions I would have missed on my own that more than made up for switching services. They have this document analyzer that catches things even professional tax preparers sometimes miss. Definitely worth checking out before you decide to paper file!

I just wanted to follow up about taxr.ai since I ended up trying it after seeing this thread. Wow, what a difference! I uploaded my documents (including my extension paperwork) and it pulled all the information automatically. Even recognized my student loan interest forms which I always struggle with entering manually. The fee was WAY less than what TurboTax was going to charge me, and I ended up with a bigger refund too because it found a credit I qualified for that I had no idea about. The whole process took me maybe 30 minutes compared to the hours I usually spend. Just finished filing yesterday and already got confirmation that both federal and state were accepted. Definitely my new go-to for taxes!

If you're still trying to reach the IRS about your extension or have questions before filing, good luck getting through to them! I spent DAYS trying to get someone on the phone about my extension situation last year. Then I found this service called Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) that got me connected to an actual IRS agent in under 20 minutes. They have this system that navigates all the phone menus and holds your place in line, then calls you when an agent is about to pick up. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c Seriously saved my sanity during extension season when everyone's trying to call. The agent I spoke with confirmed I could definitely switch from TurboTax to paper filing after my extension, and gave me some helpful tips about making sure my payment was properly credited.

I have to admit I was completely wrong about Claimyr. After posting that skeptical comment, I was still struggling to reach the IRS about my extension situation, so I figured I'd try it as a last resort. I expected it to be a waste of money, but I was desperate. To my absolute shock, I got a call back in about 35 minutes saying they had an IRS agent on the line. The agent helped clarify exactly what I needed to do with my extension and confirmed I could switch from the tax software I used for the extension to a completely different method for my actual return. They even noted my account to show I had made a good faith effort to resolve an issue with a missing form. I spent literally 8+ hours over 3 days trying to reach someone before this. Would have saved myself so much frustration if I'd just tried this service first!

Another option is to check if you qualify for the IRS Free File program regardless of which service you used for the extension. I think the income limit is around $73k this year. Go to the IRS website directly to access it though, don't google it because the paid versions of tax software try to hide the free options. Also worth checking your local library or community center - many offer VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) programs with IRS-certified volunteers who can help you file for free, even during extension season.

Don't forget that even though you filed an extension, you still need to submit your return by October 15th to avoid late filing penalties! Extension season always goes by faster than people expect.

Just wanted to chime in with my experience - I switched from TurboTax to FreeTaxUSA after filing an extension and it worked perfectly! The key thing to remember is that your extension (Form 4868) is completely separate from your actual tax return filing method. I was in a similar boat with TurboTax trying to charge me $89 for federal plus state fees. FreeTaxUSA ended up costing me only $15 for state filing (federal was completely free) and walked me through everything step by step. The interface isn't as fancy as TurboTax but it gets the job done and their support was actually more helpful when I had questions. One tip: make sure you have all your documents organized before you start with any new service since you'll be entering everything fresh. Also double-check that any estimated tax payments you made with your extension are properly reflected in the payments section of your return. Good luck!