Is turbo tax one of the best ways to do taxes? If you've tried it, how many years have you used the service? Or have you used any other tax preparation software?

Usually people who file their taxes with TurboTax also qualify for the independently run but IRS sponsored VITA program (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program). If you make less than $40k-$50k a year, you have no business paying to have your taxes done... or get frustrated doing your taxes yourself. This year I'm an assistant coordinator at one of these sites, we're going to pushing 1000 clients this year. The IRS provides TaxWise software, which is one of the big commercial name-brands. We pride ourselves on being better than H&R Block (and clones), because our people are at least as qualified as them, but we have better supervision and we're trained for the deductions and credits for people with lower incomes. Plus H&R Block and clones rip you off and their refund anticipation loans are a total scam which take advantage of the poor and middle class.

VITA e-files and can prepare federal, state and local filings for you. AND IT'S ALL FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL!!! It's a shame more people don't know about it!

To find a VITA site near you, call the IRS hotline at 1-800-829-1040.

I've used Turbo Tax 3 years in a row and I like it ok!

I've used Turbo Tax for the Mac since 1990 when it was owned by Clip Soft. It wasn't until Intuit took it over in the late 90s that many of the bugs were fixed. I've been satisfied with Turbo Tax over the last 10 years because I had to file so many forms for rental property, investments, and numerous 1099s for my wife. I wouldn't even attempt to use another tax preparation program because Turbo Tax is so efficient in transferring data from year to year and my tax returns have always been so complicated to do.

I used it this year and it seemed to give me more money than H&R Block. I have way too many tax documents to do it myself so I go this way. Also, you can file your federal for free so I liked that.

No, an old family friend who is a CPA is the best way to go, problem is not everybody has one:)

I wouldn't say its the best way to do taxes but in my experience its been the best Idiot proof way for me to do my Taxes. I used it for about 4 or 5 years but once I got married I stopped. My wifes cousin is an accountant and he does ours for $100.00. We usually get about $2k in returns so it pays off. I have not used another software but there are alot out there that have great reputations. The names unfortunately I do not know. Sorry.

I've used FreeTaxUSA.com for 3 or 4 years now and have had great results.
The first time takes a good bit of time but after that it remembers all the details and is so easy.

It walks you right through and asks questions that you may not have thought about (for itemized deductions.)

I think it does Federal for free; if you get State, and the works it's still only about 20 bucks.

Got me back more than paying those really famous tax people who charge at least $75.

I use it every year, I think it's a good value, it's easy, and you get your refund quick. Plus, I just save the cd-rom, and I have all my tax information saved in case I need in in the future :)

I have used it and found it to be really no better than the free e-file service through the irs website...unless you have some crazy deductions and such it's not worth the price tag.

I used TurboTax for about 3 years and then I switched to TaxAct which you get online for free (you pay $12.95 to e-file your return and I believe it's the same with TurboTax). I've found TaxAct to be very similar to TurboTax. Never had a problem with either one.

Hubby uses it. He prepares taxes for many of our family members. We own rental property, have numerous medical charges, and investments. He finds it very useful, has done for several years.