Free Tax Filing: TurboTax Free Edition Online

Who would say no to free tax filing? TurboTax Free Edition Online is software available through the internet that takes you through the tax filing process step by step. TurboTax is known for being easy to use and informative. The regular TurboTax Edition Online normally runs anywhere from $30 to $90. But, if you have simple tax returns like I do, and you don't have investments and rental property or much room to maximize your deductions, you should try out the TurboTax Free Edition Online.

TurboTax isn't the only online free tax filing service out there. I chose them because of all of the options that they offer for free. What first attracted me to the TurboTax Free Edition Online were their tax calculators and tax tips. They offer a free tax estimator which will approximate the amount of taxes that you will pay for that fiscal year. This worked out great for me, because my new job put me in a different tax bracket and I was better able to prepare for what I would have to pay. There is also a feature that estimates whether you will receive a rebate. For all the bells and whistles that TurboTax offers, you have to buy the official version. However, the TurboTax Free Edition Online you can get tips on how to prepare for future events and search for deductions.

How Do I Start Using the TurboTax Free Edition Online software?

Like most things with TurboTax, getting started is pretty straightforward. Simply go to the TurboTax website and click "start now" under the free edition. Then, follow the prompts to create an account. TurboTax is known for being secure, so I wouldn't worry about giving my information.

Once you download the TurboTax Free Edition Online software onto your computer, all you have to do is fill in the required files. I recommend having your 1040EZ form (the only form the online version is compatible with) handy for reference. The TurboTax Free Edition Online software is some of the most user friendly out there. You are taken through the process in baby steps, and there are plenty of information links that offer explanations of tax terms that you may not be familiar with.

Once you finish filling out all of the information and answer the interview questions, the TurboTax Free Edition Online software will calculate the amount of taxes that you owe or the amount of refund you can expect. And, not only do they offer free tax filing, but they also check your return for errors which is one of the best aspects of receiving professional help.

There is a feature that allows you to print out your tax return and mail it into the IRS, but you can save paper and postage by e-filing your form. This method is just as secure (if not more so) as mailing in your return. Plus, it gets your returns in faster which means you can expect your return to come that much sooner.

I wasn't sure what to expect when I was offered free tax filing, but TurboTax left me feeling pleasantly surprised. The software is full service and easy to use.