The best TurboTax software
Students, homeowners, and entrepreneurs all share one thing in common: they have to file their taxes. To make the job easy, many turn to Intuit's user-friendly TurboTax software.
TurboTax utilizes a combination of question-and-answer sections and fill-in-the-blanks. Provided you're accurate and honest with your information, filing is simple. Since TurboTax covers both state and federal filings, it's essentially one-stop software.
With tax season just around the corner, we've put together this TurboTax software buying guide to help you find the best one for your needs. We're including our top pick, the Intuit TurboTax Deluxe + State 2018 Tax Software PC/Mac Disc, which guides homeowners through deductions.
Let's face it: filing taxes can be complicated and intimidating. TurboTax uncomplicates the process by explaining tax lingo in plain language. The software seamlessly guides you through sections in a frustration-free way. You can even save your progress and return to it later.
Expert help:
TurboTax employs a question-and-answer interview process to obtain all the information it needs for your filing. If you feel you need more guidance that requires a detailed explanation, you can access a live TurboTax agent. This connects you to tax professionals who can help you pinpoint the right information.
Easy e-filing:
With TurboTax, you can e-file instead of dealing with the headache of paperwork. Not only is it hassle-free, it often results in a much faster refund. Keep in mind there is an additional fee for some e-filings.
Affordable filing:
It's often much less expensive to file with TurboTax than to go through an accountant or tax-preparation service. It also means you know the status of your filing, instead of waiting for preparation and filing to go through.
Features:
TurboTax is step-oriented, so it's easy to pace yourself during filing. To progress through to the end, you need to satisfy each screen's questions with appropriate information. TurboTax organizes like information to help you get through sections more quickly, instead of flipping through paperwork the whole time.
Final submission:
Don't worry: TurboTax catches if you're missing any information or if something sounds incorrect. Once you finalize your filing, the software performs a cursory audit to make sure all your boxes are ticked. If you need to submit additional data, TurboTax prompts you and returns to the screen where it goes.
Price:
Basic TurboTax software for simple filings costs $25 to $50, but if you're a homeowner, have diverse income sources, or deductions, expect to spend closer to $100. Business owners can purchase TurboTax software with advanced capabilities starting at $100 and above.
Best of the best: Intuit TurboTax Deluxe + State 2018 Tax Software PC/Mac Disc
Our take: Well-rounded software for those with deductions, those who own a home, and single individuals.
What we like: User-friendly to do personal taxes. Guides users through 2018 tax law changes.
What we dislike:
Not all forms for 2018 changes are available.
Best bang for your buck: Intuit TurboTax Home & Business + State 2018 Tax Software PC/Mac Disc
Our take:
Popular for small business owners, side hustlers, freelancers, and self-employed tax filing.
What we like:
Best option if you have a side business, and includes one state e-file. Automatic tax form updates.
What we dislike:
Slight learning curve if it's the first year filing your extra income.
Our take:
Essential for small business owners with five or fewer employees who need an all-in-one tax software.
