TurboTax has been the big boy on the tax software block for a while. The question is: Can other tax software knock TurboTax off its block?
Let’s compare three up-and-coming tax software applications versus TurboTax Deluxe: H&R Block At Home Deluxe, TaxAct Deluxe, and CompleteTax Deluxe.
- Price – All are $30 except TaxAct is $10. But, do you really want to save $20 on your tax software when it comes to the opportunity cost of being able to save hundreds, sometimes thousands. So, let’s move on.
- Pros – TurboTax integrates with most other applications and is clear and visually appealing. H&R copies an interview process with queues to gather the correct info, and even throws in a free tax expert discussion. TaxAct is right to the point which is good for experienced tax users. CompleteTax offers free filing for those who lost their jobs in the past year.
- Cons – The TurboTax summaries are too long. H&R doesn’t look for omitted info. TaxAct is not a hand-holding app so you’re on your own. CompleteTax has a difficult interface to follow.
In the end, TurboTax is still the most user friendly tax software available. Tech support is offered when necessary and the computer setup is easy. If you’re one who always asks, “Why,” you’ll get lots of answers from H&R whereas TaxAct expects you to know these tax computer questions. CompleteTax should be avoided since doing your taxes by hand will get you the same result.
As for filing online, each of these software packages offers this computer solution. Yes, you can get a refund with e-filing, but beyond a federal e-filing will cost you extra.
