SmallBizResource Blog -- Software

Tuesday's Tax Tip: Side-By-Side Look at the Top 10 Online Tax Software Products

Posted by Gayle Kesten Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008, 06:30 AM ET

Intuit's TurboTax and H&R Block's TaxCut might be the most popular tax software for do-it-yourselfers, but they're certainly not the only ones that can do the job.

Even so, they're most popular for a reason -- they're good at what they do, ranking first and third, respectively, on TopTenREVIEWS' 2008 Online Software Report. In fact, nine of the 10 products on its list rate good or better, based on intuitive navigation, novice-friendliness, ease of installation/setup, feature set and help/documentation/search capabilities.

Here's what made the cut -- the most expensive being a nickel shy of $45 -- with a brief synopsis why. To survey the entire landscape, check out this convenient side-by-side comparison chart, which links to TopTenREVIEWS' more in-depth reviews. If you want to go straight to a software maker's site, then click on the product names listed below.

1. TurboTax Deluxe: Earned TopTenREVIEWS' Gold Award for its combination of simple navigation, an extensive help library, a responsive online community full of knowledgeable users and overall ease of use.

2. TaxACT: TopTenREVIEWS cites its Silver Award winner's improved interface and outstanding help system, and says it's a great product that can cover most individual or small business tax needs.

3. H&R Block TaxCut: For offering almost everything TurboTax offers except year-to-year deduction comparisons, TaxCut gets the Bronze Award.

4. CompleteTax: Missed being in the top 3 due to its less streamlined interface, the fact that it doesn’t handle part-year state resident returns, and a somewhat overabundant use of tax professional jargon.

5. TaxSlayer Premium: A good option if you don't require extensive tax advice.

6. TaxEngine: The redesigned software is a good choice for anybody looking to file more than the standard 1040 EZ.

7. TaxBrain 1040 Deluxe: A good online filing service for 1040EZ or simple 1040 filers who are looking for a quick refund.

8. OLT Online Taxes: The bare bones way to file your taxes, but a good way if you don't require assistance.

9. Express TaxRefund: A bit difficult to use, with a handful of extra fees above the software's cost.

10. TaxExact: Best suited for a knowledgeable tax pro.

How do you file your taxes? If you take the software route, what do you use?

Previous Tuesday's Tax Tips:

Overlooked Deductions

Software

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