Tax Software

"What tax software do I use? I don't have time for taxes! (Just kidding, Uncle!)" - the Free Computer Consultant

"What Tax Software do you use?"

Short answer: Premium + State + E-File TaxCut Software .

Why? Well, I used to use TurboTax years ago and really liked it. Getting program updates was off and on troublesome, but that was the early days of the internet.

But then, 6 or 7 years ago they decided to require program activation. Ok, Microsoft does that now, too. Ticked me off a little, but not enough to leave them. But then I tried to activate.. wouldn't work. Next day.. wouldn't work. Next day.. wouldn't work and I took it back to the store for a refund. (Yes, even though it was opened - I wasn't the only one complaining).

I switched that year to TaxCut and have been with them ever since. At first they weren't quite as easy to use (maybe I just needed some adjustment time), but I quickly learned to love it as much as TurboTax. The last several years I have been quite happy with them.

Now, remember, this isn't a product pitch disguised as a review. I tell people what products I use and why. Right up front. When it comes to tax preparation software this is what I use and I think you'll be happy with it too. No software is perfect but this one has served me well year after year. And they stand behind it.

And for the record, I get the Federal + State software and do it offline. They offer online tax preparation also but I have never done it that way.

Tax Software is cheap

Especially considering what it will do for you, I think it's a great deal.

I do quite a few returns for family and friends. But even if you are only doing your own, the opportunity to play "what if" is just awesome.

Remembering the old days of doing everything by hand is now considered a bad dream. This is the kind of work that computers are well suited for.

It almost makes doing your taxes fun! Ok, ok. Almost.