I’m often asked about the differences in tax software – and what specific program I would recommend. To be honest, I am not well-versed in the differences between the different brands. Now, I don’t have to be.
A new web site called Software.com compares different types of computer software by features – including tax software. You can find out what works on a PC versus a Mac (important for those Mac lovers among us); whether eFile is included; how whether the program prepares federal or stater; whether the program is available for download – and more. There are even sections for comparing features limited to simple returns and those for home and office.
There is also a feature that walks you through a few questions to help you choose the best software for you. I did it for kicks – not bad.
The only thing that I didn’t love was the “free tax advice” section where you can call an “expert” for free. First, I think it’s scary to get specific tax advice on an anonymous basis – you don’t really know what kind of training, if any, the “expert” has beyond a script. And second, since it’s free, I have to think that there will be some kind of hard sell over the phone to buy product, though I don’t know that for sure. It didn’t help that when I went to check it out, there were “no listings found.”
I don’t plug many products or sites on taxgirl.com and trust me, I get a bunch of requests to do so. But the potential for a site like this intrigues me – assuming that they sort out the kinks on the experts section. But if you’re just looking to compare software, it’s worth a look.
Of course, it would be easier to get software for free, no? All you have to do to enter my contest is leave me a comment at the contest post with your worst tax filing story or the reason that you hate taxes… What are you waiting for?
Update: The folks at Software.com contacted me to say, “We’re working on the expert section, but just so you know the service is all licensed CPA’s and tax lawyers.” Great! I’ll have to check back!
Interesting article. However, I would like have seen something about a company called Citizen Tax. I have used them the last couple of years and have had no problems. They offer federal and state return combined for only $9.99. That is for all their forms too, no fee increases for certain forms like some of these other sites. If you are interested in an easy tax filing this season I would defenitely check them out. I highly recommend http://citizentax.com
I’ve checked the site, and I found it useful for anyone who is looking for the best tax software.