How do I create W-2 and 1099 forms for my employees or contractors? I see the directions turbo tax gives but they're not clear / incorrect.

To prepare W2 and 1099s you need either the online Premium version or the Desktop Home & Business program or the separate Desktop Turbo Tax Business program if you need to file a 1120 or 1065 Business return.

To prepare W2s and 1099s in the Online Premium version you have to first start your personal return. Then when you log in you select Take me to my Return. Then the next screen should be the Welcome Back screen. At the bottom under Manage your Return it says Create W2s and 1099s. This will take you to the QEF Quick Employer Forms.

If you are already in your return you can log out and back in again to get to the beginning screen.

Or in your return, Anywhere on any screen you see
Help me prepare and file W-2s and 1099s
Click on it and the side box will open, Then click on Quick Employer Forms in the side box.