Which Tax Software Is Best For Me?

[trippypea]

I've never e-filed my federal taxes before, and am interested in doing it, but don't know which product I need and how much it costs. I've looked at the IRS website, and don't qualify for free e-file (AGI is more than $57K).

I would consider my taxes super easy to do. I normally fill out the 1040, and I don't itemize. I've checked out a couple of the tax software sites (H&R Block, TurboTax) and the free or basic versions seem to be what I need since I don't have any previous years tax returns to import and don't need all the bells and whistles.

If you use one of these free versions, is it free to prepare, and free to file? Or is it free to prepare and an additional cost to file? What is that additional cost?

IF you use one of the paid versions, does the cost you pay for the software include preparing AND filing, or is it just for preparing and you still have to pay to file?

[TheOtherMe]

I can't speak to the free software sites. I can tell you my tax return is a bit more complicated than yours and I use Turbo Tax. You can efile the federal return for free. I think you can efile 5 federal returns for free.

You can download and prepare one state return. Turbo Tax does charge to efile the state return.

[mwcpa]

while I use professional software for my clients (and my) tax filings I always "fear" when something is "free"....
and now that IRS basically requires that anyone who uses any form of tax software to e-file it may be better to "buy" a version of the software you like.... the free version may not include all that you need.... which will add frustration to an already frustrating process for many....

[TheOtherMe]

What ever software you decide to buy, please read the questions very carefully. If you answer a question incorrectly, you can go down the wrong path so easily.

[trippypea]

Thanks for the advice! I decided to buy the H&R Block Deluxe since it was on sale yesterday at Amazon. I got the CD version so I can play around with it to see if I like it.