When tax season comes, you’ll probably do an online search for free tax software and more chances than not, you’ll find plenty of free or low-cost options—even the IRS offers free software for certain taxpayers.
Is it really right?
These low-cost choices look like a good deal. They’re less expensive than having a tax professional prepare your taxes and you can do them in the privacy of your own home, but not everyone has had a positive experience filing with tax software on their own. Even when you think you’ve done everything right, Uncle Sam may disagree.
Some clients have used popular online tax-filing program for years, until they got a letter from the IRS saying they owed more money or had thousands of dollars withheld from their federal return.
Great Price Now. Loose Hundreds of Dollars Later.
Of course, millions of people file their own taxes with free and low-cost tax software every year without a problem. For people who have a simple tax situation—single, one income, taking the standard deduction, not self-employed—tax software can be a cost-saving solution.
When your taxes are a bit more complicated, filing your own taxes with free or low-cost software can end up costing you hundreds! People who file their own taxes get back an average of almost $850 less than those who work with a tax professional.
Get Your Taxes Right the First Time
Get a higher return every year when you spend a few more dollars using a tax expert rather than software. Don’t take a chance on missing out on money that belongs to you—or worse yet, finding out that you owe thousands! Work with a tax professional who will make sure you’re claiming all the deductions and credits you qualify for.