Before You Buy Tax Software

Does the tax software have the features you need for your tax situation? Do the features save you time? Is there error checking in the tax software? Is there a deduction finder?

Can you see how to get around the the tax software from screenshots on the box or marketing information? Can you move around in your tax return so you don’t waste a lot of time trying to find your place instead of getting your taxes done?

Does the tax software include explanations of tax laws? Are instructions in the tax software written in common language and without tax jargon so they are understandable? Does the tax software have an interview to guide you through entering your tax data?

Is there a toll-free number, email address, chat and/or an online forum available to get answers to your questions about the tax software? Is there help for both using the tax software and for income tax-related questions?

Does the tax software manufacturer stand behind the accuracy of the product? If you are audited, will the tax software manufacturer provide a tax professional to assist you?

Does the tax software package include a state tax return? If you need to buy the state tax portion of the software separately, how much does it cost? If the tax software includes a state return but you need to file income taxes for more than one state, how much do additional state returns cost?

How much does the tax software charge for electronic filing if you plan to e-file instead of printing out and mailing your tax return in? If the tax software includes e-filing fees, are fees covered for both state and federal e-file?

Be sure the tax software will run on your computer. The box, support web page or other documentation for the software should mention whether the tax software runs on PCs, Macs, or other operating systems and how much hard drive space and RAM is required. Video and Internet-related requirements should be mentioned as well.