Posted by BoomerSooner on 2/18/13 9:29am
Msg #456330

Tax

Good Morning;

What tax program do most of you use?

Why?

Thank you

Reply by sueharke on 2/18/13 10:09am
Msg #456340

A tax program is good to prepare your own tax return IF you understand how the program works, are able to answer the questions the tax program asks, update the program timely, and understand the current tax law. If you don't understand the current tax law are you able to find the answers to your questions.

I am a CPA and I can say that it costs more to go to a professional to file an amended return or get help with letters from taxing agencies later. If you have the skill to do your own tax return, then go for it! If you don't have the skill, pay to get your tax return prepared (note, I did not say use a store front tax prep service).

Reply by Pam/NM on 2/18/13 10:11am
Msg #456342

Up until 2 yr ago, I used Turbo Tax. I had taken classes and worked for H & R Block back in the day (before programs became the norm, and we used big old calculators and lots of erasers). I found it to be fairly easy and streamlined, if you have a good idea of what you're doing, IF you can get past all their advertising for extra services they don't need. The past 2 years, we've had multiple states to file, so I see a CPA now (but it's my niece, so I keep it in the family )

Reply by Larry/IL on 2/18/13 10:29am
Msg #456347

Turbo Tax and Tax Act are both very good.

As long as you take your time and don't guess on anything you do not know the answer to, you'll probably be fine as long as you do not have a complex return. Even then if your willing to take the time to read, and you obtain a good understanding of your situation, you might be able to tackle a few complex issues. I would not try and tackle rental, inherited properties and any estate issues without some experience. I have volunteered at a VITA site for many years and we use Tax Act on the IRS supplied computers.

This is all just opinion and should not be taken as legal advice, you know that routine.

Reply by MW/VA on 2/18/13 11:27am
Msg #456353

I've used TurboTax for many years, but was also a tax

preparer & have knowledge of the process. I agree with Sue, and it's best to get a professional if you don't know what you're doing.

Reply by Scriba/NM on 2/18/13 1:03pm
Msg #456365

The Tax Program I use is called CPA - I don't like audits n/m

Reply by KODI/CA on 2/18/13 1:45pm
Msg #456367

The other alternative is IRS Enrolled Agent (EA).

Reply by sueharke on 2/18/13 4:37pm
Msg #456404

That is why I stated a qualified tax professional, but not a store front tax service in my post.

Reply by Malbrough_LA on 2/18/13 3:48pm
Msg #456384

I'll second or third Turbo Tax, but agree that you do have to know what you're doing. I have a friend that's a CPA I utilize for questions. The programs are not "fool proof".