quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
You can't make a mistake along the way and finish, because in the end, they will review the whole thing and pick out what errors you've made and make you correct them before e-filing.

I work for very large CPA firm but we're not allowed to use the company's tax software (which is super powerful) for our own returns.

I've used the download (or CD) version of TurboTax for my personal returns (and returns for family members) for more than 20 years. I've never used the online version (which is different software than the download version.)

TurboTax is not flawless. There are ways to make mistakes that TurboTax will not catch. Over the years I've also caught one or two programming errors.

There is no substitute for experience. But if you choose to prepare your own return, Turbo Tax is certainly a quality product and the interview screens are helpful.

I've used TT for the past 6 years and found it easy to use and well worth the cost. Prior years I had an accountant do them and she charged $250 and I simply brought her a file folder full of the 1099's etc and she sorted through them and filled out the forms, did the efile. Prior to filing we had a sit down to discuss and make sure nothing was missing and planned for the upcoming year. Well worth the $250, but sadly she closed her office so I moved on to TT.

The one thing I like about TT vs trying to do the forms all by myself is the import feature. Plug in you're investment accounts and TT puts everything in the correct places and generates the needed forms. I use Fidelity for investments and there are quite a few places things need to go. Long term, short term capital gains & losses, foreign taxes, tax free interest, regular interest etc. TT also compares with the previous year's filings to flag items possibly missed. This makes it a snap, and you do get a CPA review if you opt for the higher level program.

Although TT is easy to use, correctly imputing data is your responsibility so my advice is allow yourself a couple of hours of uninterrupted time to work through it.

I have used TurboTax for around 10 years. I have been very satisfied with the program. The first year that you use it will be a little more time consuming because you will be entering all new information. In subsequent years it will take less time because your personal information will carry over to the next year, as will tax carryovers, etc.

I would not worry about filing electronically as a previous poster mentioned. I file electronically but also print a paper copy of my returns for my tax file. I then keep that copy with my 1099’s, W-2’s, etc. No worries. You will get a confirmation via text message when your returns are accepted (if you choose to do so), and you can, of course, keep a screen shot of those acceptance texts if you wish to do so.

quote:

Originally posted by bogeyman:
I file electronically but also print a paper copy of my returns for my tax file. I then keep that copy with my 1099’s, W-2’s, etc. No worries. You will get a confirmation via text message when your returns are accepted (if you choose to do so), and you can, of course, keep a screen shot of those acceptance texts if you wish to do so.

Pretty much what I do, except after everything is filed, I upload copies of the 1099 etc to the TT account. They are simply saved files that don't influence your return but it's a nice place to back them up and if you do need help down the line (IRS questions something) your session with a TT accountant is easier if they can view the actual docs.

I have used it for at least 20 years and am happy with it. I usually get the deluxe version, which is sufficient for my needs, to include an occasional stock or mutual fund trade. Since my taxes are about the same each year, I go right to the forms and fill them out as my tax information comes in; when I am done, I run the review.

Free Federal filing but state costs; I mail in the state. Federal refund took less than 2 weeks this year.

I’ve used the TurboTax Deluxe edition for the past 15 years except for one year when I cheaped-out and tried H&R. Paid $39.99 for the software every year until this year when it increased $10. Still a bargain IMHO.

quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
Have used Turbo Tax for years. Never had a problem. They have different levels. Choose one that fits your situation. They guide you every step of the way. You can't make a mistake along the way and finish, because in the end, they will review the whole thing and pick out what errors you've made and make you correct them before e-filing.

Before I started using them, I had a tax preparer do mine. Guess what he used? Turbo Tax. After that, I said heck, I'm using it, also.

This ^^^^^^^^
Pretty much sums up my experience and thoughts. I've been using them for many years. I like the fact that all my info is kept and I just do a quick check for any minor changes in my status and then just fill in my latest tax forms info. I do however notice the price creep as almost expected these days but it's quick and convenient and done.