Am I showing my age by quoting a line from that old Beatles song “Taxman?†Let’s take a look at the Internet resources and software available to make tax time a little less excruciating.
Tax preparation software and Internet sites about taxes can be very useful. But, if your taxes complex, it’s a good idea to also work with a local tax preparation expert.
Software
The two most widely used programs are TurboTax (www.intuit.com) and TaxCut (www.hrblock.com). Each offers a range of editions, from $19.95 to $79.95. Watch for various rebates and software giveaways. They also offer versions allowing you to prepare your return online.
TaxACT (www.taxact.com) offers a FREE edition for download or online use.
Electronic Filing
Last year, 47 million individual returns, or about 36 percent of the total, were filed electronically. In previous years there was a cost, but now it’s FREE! Check out www.irs.gov and click on “Free File.â€
Direct Deposit
Electronic filing can speed up your return. Do you have a refund coming? You can get it even faster by using direct deposit to your bank account. The state of Arizona also provides electronic filing and direct deposit. I read that the state is expecting a 6 to 8 week turnaround for mailed refunds, so it’s good idea to investigate these options to get your refund sooner.
Other Websites provide online preparation and electronic filing. Check out www.completetax.com, www.filetaxes.com, and www.easy-efile.com.
Online Resources. The Net abounds with sites dedicated to tax issues. www.taxsites.com is an index of hundreds of sites on every tax topic under the sun.
There are also many sites dedicated to offering a variety of helpful articles. Some of the more informative sites include:
www.taxopedia.com
http://taxes.yahoo.com
www.wwwebtax.com
http://moneycentral.msn.com
www.1040.com
www.turbotax.com
And of course, the Internal Revenue Site - www.irs.gov - is also a fine resource for tax information.