EmailBest Reviewed
Tax Preparation Software
- Best tax software for complex returns Intuit TurboTax Premier Federal + State 2008 *Est. $75
- Best tax software Intuit TurboTax Deluxe Federal + State 2008 *Est. $50
- Tax software for simple returns TaxACT 2008 Ultimate *Est. $20
- Free online tax preparation IRS Free File Program *Est. $0
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Tax software for simple returns
- Fast and accurate
- Good for very basic returns
- Inexpensive
- Not suitable for more complicated tax returns
- Only available for Windows
TaxACT tax preparation software is quick and accurate, according to reviewers, but it isn't as sophisticated as more expensive tax software like the various versions of Intuit TurboTax (*est. $20 to $75). TaxACT doesn't offer much help to users, but if you have a simple tax return or don't require much handholding, reviewers say it's a bargain. The Ultimate version of TaxACT includes federal and state tax preparation, along with free electronic filing for both returns, while the Deluxe version (*est. $13) is for federal returns only. TaxACT is only available as a download for Windows users. For a more complicated return, reviewers suggest TurboTax Deluxe (*est. $45) There's also a free IRS tool online, but you can't use it if your 2007 adjusted gross income is over $54,000.
We found the best reviews of TaxACT 2007 Ultimate at PC Magazine and CNet.com, which both compare this tax preparation software to market leader Intuit TurboTax. About.com's guides to financial software and taxes also proved helpful.
Our Sources
In this review, Carroll tests out H&R Block TaxCut Home & Business, Intuit TurboTax Home & Business and TaxACT Deluxe and State. He says TaxACT gets better and better each year, and is "surprisingly powerful" considering its low price.
Review: The Tax Man Cometh, Sean Carroll, Feb. 18, 2008
2. CNET
CNet.com gives kudos to TaxACT for good technical support and a low price, but thinks the interview process is a little hard to understand. They conclude TaxACT is best mainly for "bargain hunters with relatively simple finances."
Review: TaxACT Ultimate Online 2007, Elsa Wenzel, Feb. 25, 2008
3. About.com
Perez, About.com's guide to taxes, reviews and ranks four tax preparation software programs, and puts TaxACT in the top spot, citing its suitability for basic returns. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Review: Top 5 Tax Software, William Perez, Feb. 8, 2008
Tax Preparation Software Runners Up:
3 picks by top review sites.
H&R Block TaxCut 2008 Premium Federal + State + e-file
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