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
February 2009. 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. $30 to $100). 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 or CD-ROM for Windows users, however the online versions are available to both Windows and Mac users. For a more complicated return, reviewers suggest TurboTax Deluxe (*est. $50) There's also a free IRS tool online, but you can't use it if your 2008 adjusted gross income is over $56,000.
We found the best reviews of TaxACT 2008 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.
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Our Sources
Kathy Yakal discusses and compares the various versions of TurboTax, TaxCut and TaxACT at length. TaxACT is the best choice for the "budget-conscious," she says, but its interface isn't as intuitive and it doesn't provide the same level of help as the competition.
Review: The Top Tools for Tax Season, Kathy Yakal, Jan. 20, 2009
2. 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
Tina Orem reviews and rates online tax filing services, saying that TaxACT is the best value, even though it doesn't have all of the extras found in competing software programs. She says it is especially good for those that don't need the level of guidance and support that TurboTax provides.
Review: Tax Prep Sites: Turbo Tax, TaxAct, TaxCut Lead the Pack, Tina Orem, Feb. 4, 2009
4. Amazon.com
Reviews at Amazon.com for TaxACT products are limited, but most are very positive. Several reviewers claim that TaxACT is as reliable as both TurboTax and TaxCut. At least one reviewer said it was hard to use, but worth it for the price.
Review: TaxACT 2008 Ultimate Bundle for Desktop, Contributors to Amazon.com
Tax Preparation Software Runners Up:
3 picks by top review sites.
H&R Block TaxCut 2008 Premium Federal + State + e-file [OLD VERSION]
 from Amazon.com New: $3.79 In Stock.
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