Death and Taxes (my experience with Turbo Tax)

Turbo Tax for those who haven’t heard of or used it before is a State and Federal tax filing software.  I’ve been using the software for the last four years and find it very intuitive and efficient.  I prefer doing my own taxes to save a little time and money and as my finances aren’t they complex I’m comfortable doing them myself.  Even prior to being able to complete your taxes online I would complete the paper tax form available at the Post Office and mail them; that’s when my finances were REALLY not complicated though.  I think Turbo Tax is great because it literally walks you through each step.  Starting by having you fill in what’s in box 1 of your W-2 and box 2 etc… then asking if you have any other W-2s to add.  Once that complete you’re asked in plain English questions about deductions, contributions, 401Ks and anything else you may have.  During the entire process there’s a running total at the top of the program telling you what your return, or what you owe, as you enter your information.  Another great feature is that because the program is online, I can start completing my tax form at work when I receive my W-2 and finish them at home or where ever as I receive new tax information.  Also, it provides an online backup of your takxes should you loose your hard copies. If you’re comfortable with number and want to save a little money or just want to see if what Turbo Tax comes up with is the same as your accountant I say give it a try