Doing taxes is hard enough by itself without the added bother of having to find good tax software. Look for one, and all kinds pop up - free & paid versions, online & desktop versions, simple & complex, personal & business use, etc. So the trick is to find one that is perfect for an individual or company's current filing needs.
As a start, consider using the free e-file programs. They're adequate for simple filings like a 1040EZ, but not sufficient where there's a mortgage or childcare, medical expenses, and so on. The free e-file programs are offered by all major software companies as a result of a partnership with the IRS to help low-income families.
While such a program would be very basic, it can always be upgraded to include paid add-ons like maybe a state filing. The e-file programs are not just simple and free, but also have fast turnarounds and someone who accepts returns via direct deposit will find a return in their account within eight days.
Even though they're free, users still have access to a whole bunch of tools and support from the companies, such as walk-through videos, audit support centers and deduction helpers. If a user still finds it hard to complete the filing with the free version, it's always possible to upgrade on the spot and continue with the filing using the premium version. There still remains, however, the question of which one of the programs to use.
The best answer is to simply continue using the same program that was used in previous years. Thing is that these programs don't exactly work well with each other, so last year's filing data in one program won't be accessible via another one this year. Those who aren't very good at using these programs and suddenly find a complicated filing ahead may want to consult a CPA.
But generally speaking, there is tax software to match all kinds of needs. It's just a matter of being able to use it, which takes a bit of practice. Again, this means it is better to stick with the same program every year as long as it seems to be able to do the job.
As a start, consider using the free e-file programs. They're adequate for simple filings like a 1040EZ, but not sufficient where there's a mortgage or childcare, medical expenses, and so on. The free e-file programs are offered by all major software companies as a result of a partnership with the IRS to help low-income families.
While such a program would be very basic, it can always be upgraded to include paid add-ons like maybe a state filing. The e-file programs are not just simple and free, but also have fast turnarounds and someone who accepts returns via direct deposit will find a return in their account within eight days.
Even though they're free, users still have access to a whole bunch of tools and support from the companies, such as walk-through videos, audit support centers and deduction helpers. If a user still finds it hard to complete the filing with the free version, it's always possible to upgrade on the spot and continue with the filing using the premium version. There still remains, however, the question of which one of the programs to use.
The best answer is to simply continue using the same program that was used in previous years. Thing is that these programs don't exactly work well with each other, so last year's filing data in one program won't be accessible via another one this year. Those who aren't very good at using these programs and suddenly find a complicated filing ahead may want to consult a CPA.
But generally speaking, there is tax software to match all kinds of needs. It's just a matter of being able to use it, which takes a bit of practice. Again, this means it is better to stick with the same program every year as long as it seems to be able to do the job.
About the Author:
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