Sarah B.
Hi there! I don't know if this will help anyone but I experienced this for the 2025 tax year. My returns are fairly simple and I usually use TurboTax, I have for at least fifteen years (at least that's what there is a record for online, probably longer than that) I decided to try to use another service this year that might save me a bit more money (my taxes are a little more complex than a straight free return for TurboTax). I used FreeTaxUSA which I recommend 10/10. It requires more legwork in typing things in and double checking numbers but my federal return was free with their service and the state was $15. I learned through their service that my state allows me to itemize deductions even if I take the standard deduction federally. Turbo Tax had me owing my state a small amount and the new service had me with a small refund. The difference was the itemization. I went through with a calculator to be sure, but itemizing my state taxes was the better option for me. (I live in a HCOL state and have mortgage interest and high property taxes that I can itemize). Entering your information is free so you can enter your info and compare and see if that might work for you too! Hopefully this helps someone out there.