Tax Preparation Software

For 15 years I've been using Intuit products. I was in the vanguard of online banking, embracing it wholeheartedly. For all these years, I've used Quicken and Quickbooks. I've also used TurboTax Online for the past few years to file my own taxes and that of my family members. Today, I was disappointed.

Because I had to file a Schedule C for my new business, I decided to research and consider purchasing the desktop version of TurboTax, thinking it would be of more value to me than merely using the online system.

The first place I went for my research was naturally the TurboTax website. The site allows a person to compare all of their products, feature by feature, and I found it very helpful. On the home page, it states that the Home and Business Version includes free e-file.

So I purchased the Home and Business version. I worked up my taxes and, when I went to e-file, the site asked for my credit card information. I stopped, saved my file, and called customer service. I was told that e-file was not included, that I had to use the online tool.

So I went back to the online tool I've been using for years, re-entered my information and prepared to e-file. Again, I was asked for a credit card. I sent an email to customer service and was informed that I needed to call them (again). I called, and was told that the desktop version does not include e-file, only the online version gives free e-file, but (and here's the rub) I have to pay for TurboTax again.

This is strictly unethical behavior on the part of a large company. TurboTax always served me well in the past, but watch out for them now! Apparently, they want our money so much that they're willing to advertise falsely to get it.

If I may suggest, go to www.irs.gov. There you will find a link taking you to a site where you can prepare your taxes free, print them free, and e-file for free - Free for everyone, no restrictions.

I followed the link to www.taxactonline.com and registered. Although I haven't as yet entered all my data, the tool appears to be the same as the TurboTax online tool, but everything is much less expensive.

If you fall into the category of adjusted gross income less than $52K, go to this link for free filing:

http://www.irs.gov/e-file/article/0,,id=118986,00.html

If you "start now", you will get to a page which lets you choose which company's software you wish to use.

These online tax preparation websites do all the math for you. The software checks for errors, helps you find deductions you didn't know you were entitled to, and lets you know if you've done anything that would flag your return for an audit by the IRS. Most of them will direct deposit your refund into your personal bank account in much less time than it would take you to receive it by mail.

Charge! Forward into the 21st Century!