TurboTax also offers desktop software, where your return doesn’t reside in the cloud, https://fourasconsulting.com/what-accounting-method-do-independent-contractors/ but it’s not part of our review. Access to tax pro support requires upgrading to TurboTax’s Live Assisted packages, which range from $79 to $209, plus state fees of $59 to $69. Arielle O’Shea leads the investing and taxes team at NerdWallet. She has covered personal finance and investing for nearly 20 years, and was a senior writer and spokesperson at NerdWallet before becoming an assigning editor.
TurboTax made it simple
- While it doesn’t offer the lowest prices you’ll find for tax software, the quality of the overall user experience can justify the higher cost.
- Using TurboTax remains a breeze because it holds your hand through the entire tax filing process.
- You upload all of your documents digitally and speak with the tax pro on a phone or video call when needed.
- You can share your TurboTax screen with your expert so they can guide you and answer your questions.
- Whether you file yourself or get expert help, you’ll get your maximum refund guaranteed, or your money back.
You can also upload your tax return from last year from your computer or phone. Within the mobile app, you can take a photo of your income documents and upload supported forms. Getting audited is scary, so it’s important to know what kind of support you’re getting from your tax software. First, be sure you know the difference between “support” and “defense.” With most providers, audit support (or “assistance”) typically means guidance about what to expect and how to prepare — that’s it. Audit defense, on the other hand, gets you full representation before the IRS from a tax professional. For the second year in a row, TurboTax will give some Full Service filers the option to work with a local tax pro in person if they prefer cost of turbotax 2020 face-to-face help.
State Filing Fees
The options range from the file for free TurboTax Free Edition. To more advanced versions like Deluxe, Premium, and Self-Employed, designed for individuals with more complex tax scenarios. Our experts are ready to help you get your biggest refund, guaranteed.
- TurboTax, like many of its competitors, guarantees your taxes will be done accurately, no matter how you file.
- Yes, TurboTax allows you to upload your previous tax return to save time entering your information.
- For more details about the categories considered when rating tax software and our process, read our full methodology.
- This edition comes with a straightforward interface, making it easy to file your federal and state taxes at no cost.
- But pricing is not transparent, and it can take some hunting around on the website to find all the available product offerings.
What are the benefits of using the Deluxe or Premium Editions of TurboTax?
Whether you have a straightforward return or a complex financial portfolio, TurboTax has you covered. These editions ensure you get the deductions you deserve, tailored to your unique tax situation. If you used the desktop CD/Download editions installed on your computer, the only copy of your tax data file and any PDF’s will be on the computer where the return was created. TurboTax does not store online any returns completed using the desktop editions. TaxSlayer doesn’t offer as many ways to prepare your taxes as TurboTax, but its self-preparation plans are cheaper and just as effective. Both companies offer access to expert assistance with paid packages.
When you add a form to your return not covered by Free Edition or Deluxe, the software immediately tells you to upgrade to the next tier to file an accurate return. You can upgrade to TurboTax Live Assisted or TurboTax Live Full Service at any time during the tax filing process by clicking “Switch Products” followed by “Upgrade” on the left side of your screen. That said, it’s worth checking out other tax filing options if you need to file multiple state returns or are self-employed and want to save a few dollars. Prior year returns can only be filed electronically by registered tax preparers for the two previous tax years. The IRS does not allow electronic filing for prior year returns through self-preparation QuickBooks ProAdvisor websites. You can also check the professional organizations many tax preparers belong to.
- It’s an extra step, but you do not lose any of your saved data by doing this.
- Be mindful of selecting only necessary options to keep costs manageable.
- These options cater to different needs and ensure peace of mind during tax season.
- TurboTax Live offers a personalized approach with access to tax experts.
- It’s important to factor in these costs when choosing your plan.
- For the second year in a row, TurboTax will give some Full Service filers the option to work with a local tax pro in person if they prefer face-to-face help.