Best Tax Software That Tax Experts Don’t Want You Using
As tax season approaches, millions of people around the world are frantically searching for the best tax software to ease their burden. With so many options available, it’s no wonder many turn to the most popular tax software, hoping to get their taxes done quickly and accurately.
However, not all tax software is created equal. While some may promise you a hassle-free experience, tax experts have some strong words of caution for certain software. These software solutions often lack advanced features, are plagued with bugs, and can even lead to errors and penalties.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best tax software that tax experts recommend avoiding. We’ll also provide you with some essential tips and considerations for choosing the right tax software for your needs.
Best Tax Software That Tax Experts Don’t Want You Using
- TaxAct
TaxAct is one of the most widely used tax software in the US, but it has received criticism for its user-friendly interface. While it may be simple for beginners, advanced users may find it lacking in features. One of the main drawbacks is its inability to import data from last year’s return, making it a hassle to update previous year’s information.
Tax experts also note that TaxAct often flags deductions incorrectly, leading to unnecessary delays and errors. Despite its popularity, TaxAct is often considered one of the least advanced tax software available.
Price: Starting at $14.96, plus a $5 additional fee for state taxes.
Pros: Simple to use for beginners, decent free version available.
Cons: Lacking in advanced features, user interface can be slow to update changes.
- TurboTax
TurboTax is another well-known tax software that tax experts warn against. While it’s often praised for its ease of use, it’s also criticized for its aggressive sales tactics. The software often suggests unnecessary upgrades and promotions, adding to the overall cost.
TurboTax is also known to be overly reliant on its AI-driven guidance, which can sometimes mislead users into incorrect deductions. Furthermore, some users have reported encountering errors and delays when trying to access their previous year’s return.
Price: Starting at $59.99, plus $39.99 for state taxes, and an additional $29.99 for audit support.
Pros: Well-designed user interface, relatively easy to use.
Cons: Aggressive sales tactics, AI-driven guidance can be misleading, slow loading times.
- H&R Block
H&R Block is a well-established tax preparation service, but its software has received criticism for being cluttered and outdated. Tax experts note that the software often crashes, requiring users to restart from scratch. The user interface can be overwhelming, with too many fields and unnecessary options.
H&R Block also lacks advanced features, making it difficult for users to import data from previous tax returns or take advantage of complex deductions.
Price: Starting at $34.99, plus a $29.99 fee for state taxes.
Pros: Wide range of services available, good for those with complex tax situations.
Cons: Cluttered user interface, crashes often occur, slow loading times.
What Tax Experts Recommend
While the software mentioned above has its drawbacks, tax experts suggest avoiding these options altogether. Instead, they recommend the following tax software:
- TaxSlayer
TaxSlayer is a comprehensive tax software that offers advanced features, including audit support and a free import option for last year’s return.
Tax experts praise its user-friendly interface, which allows for easy navigation and accurate deductions. With a starting price of $20, TaxSlayer is an affordable option for those seeking advanced features.
Price: Starting at $20, plus a $14.99 fee for state taxes.
Pros: Comprehensive features, user-friendly interface, affordable price.
Cons: Not ideal for complex tax situations, not as well-designed for audit support.
- Credit Karma Tax
Credit Karma Tax is a free tax software that offers advanced features, including audit support and a free import option for last year’s return.
Tax experts praise its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, making it an excellent choice for those seeking accuracy without breaking the bank.
Price: Free, with optional upgrade for audit support ($19.99).
Pros: Comprehensive features, free to use, user-friendly interface.
Cons: May not be ideal for complex tax situations, customer support can be unreliable.
- FreeTaxUSA
FreeTaxUSA is another free tax software that offers advanced features, including audit support and a free import option for last year’s return.
Tax experts praise its extensive library of forms and schedules, as well as its ability to import data from previous tax returns.
Price: Free, with optional upgrade for audit support ($39.99).
Pros: Free to use, comprehensive forms and schedules, user-friendly interface.
Cons: May take longer to finish, customer support can be difficult to reach.
Tips for Choosing the Right Tax Software
Choosing the right tax software can be daunting, especially with the plethora of options available. Here are some essential tips and considerations for choosing the right tax software for your needs:
- Consider the complexity of your tax situation: If you have complex investments, rental properties, or multiple businesses, choose a software with advanced features.
- Look for user-friendly interface: A user-friendly interface can make tax preparation less stressful, ensuring you get accurate deductions without unnecessary complications.
- Check the software’s import options: If you need to import data from last year’s return, choose a software with a free or low-cost import option.
- Prioritize features that matter to you: Are you concerned about audit support? Look for a software that offers this feature. Want to file for free? Opt for a free software.
- Read reviews and ask experts: Research user reviews and consult with tax experts to ensure you’re choosing a software that meets your needs.
Conclusion
The tax software landscape can be overwhelming, with countless options available. While popular software like TaxAct, TurboTax, and H&R Block may seem like the obvious choice, tax experts warn against these options due to their limitations and drawbacks.
Instead, opt for software like TaxSlayer, Credit Karma Tax, or FreeTaxUSA, which offer comprehensive features, user-friendly interfaces, and affordable prices. By choosing the right tax software for your needs, you’ll ensure a smooth tax preparation process and avoid unnecessary complications.
So, take control of your tax preparation experience. Ditch the subpar software and choose a reliable option that meets your needs.
