The Consumer's Guide to the Best Online Services for Taxes

It's officially tax season for many Americans. While several individuals will opt to gather up financial statements, receipts, and other information to have a professional complete their tax forms, this simply is not necessary. Online services for taxes offer a great alternative for many reasons. Those anticipating a refund may often think that they may receive funds more quickly by utilizing a tax service but this may not always be the case. In many instances, the tax filer can save time and money by using online tax services and still receive a refund within ten days. Here, I have compiled a list of the best websites for doing taxes online.

TurboTax: Free Online Tax Services

One of the best online services for tax filers is www.turbotax.intuit.com. Not only is this a convenient way of doing taxes online, but this service is free for most filers. Those that fall within certain income guidelines do not have to pay for any of these services. Doing taxes online with Turbo Tax is easy because they guide you through the process step by step and crunch the numbers for you. In addition, no pesky downloads are required and they show you the amount that you can anticipate getting back or paying, as you go. Almost anyone can use these kinds of online tax services and tools.

Jackson Hewitt's Online Tax Services

At www.jacksonhewittonline.com, there are also a variety of options that the tax filer can choose from. While this is also among some of the most legitimate online services for doing taxes, it may cost you. Simple returns, such as the 1040EZ are typically free to file, providing that you have no dependents. However, if the filer has itemizations, dependents, or other more complicated tax matters the filer can expect to pay for online tax services such as this. Charges may range anywhere from $28 - $46 and are subject to change. The benefit of online services for taxes such as this is that they offer various types of tax help and can be accessed either on the web, phone, or in person at one of their many locations.

H&R Block Online Tax Services

H&R Block also has a free version for those who wish to file their taxes online. The website www.hrblock.com, has various tools for the tax filer. Once again, the consumer has the option of filing for free or using the fee based service. When using the free service, the filer is self preparing their taxes though and may not be entitled to the same benefits as though who utilize the fee based online tax services. However, H&R Block breaks down the complicated tax jargon into language that the average person can understand. The best thing about these online tax services is the level of customer support. An agent is typically available online, by phone, or in person if necessary.

Taxbrain Online Tax Services

Another good online tax service is www.taxbrain.com. This type of online tax services is fee based, with currently no free versions available. However, doing taxes online with this service is quick, convenient, and they excel in customer support. The only downside to doing taxes online with this service is that the fees can vary significantly, from $14.95 to $69.95 and not all filers will be eligible for these online tax services.

Government Based Online Tax Services

The Internal Revenue Service also gives tax filers the ability to file taxes online by visiting www.irs.gov. Although this service is also free, it may not be as user friendly as the other sites. Even though directions are found on the pages, it may be rather difficult for someone who is not familiar with taxes to navigate. It still makes the list of one of the top websites that offer online tax services because the service is free, offers tips and advice, and can be quick to use.