This Tax Season – Get A CPA ASAP!
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The Trump administration’s federal downsizing includes massive layoffs at the IRS – What does that mean for you?
On Thursday, Feb 20th – The Internal Revenue Service staff was cut by 6.7K employees. According to USA Today, the current administration’s “aggressive attempt” to reduce (or eliminate) a variety of government agencies, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Education, is right on track to truly mess up the IRS and mess with your head.
Such outrageous layoffs are certain to severely complicate filing taxes and receiving refunds. So, the time to file is now! For speed, accuracy, and expertise, don’t go it alone this year – use a professional tax service.
Here are several tried-and-true ways of getting your taxes in fast…and getting the most back!
H&R Block
Perhaps the most recognizable name in the world of tax preparers, H&R Block is equally useful to those doing their own filing and to those who prefer to let one of Block’s experts handle things. They even provide step-by-step guidance – in simple language! – if you decide to manage it yourself. Online or in person, H&R Block offers assistance you can trust at a most reasonable price.
If there are any errors, Block promises 100% accuracy with reimbursement options. But with 70+ years of experience, it’s not likely anything’s falling through the cracks at H&R Block. They make the entire process easy – what a relief!
The folks at TurboTax realize that all tax filings aren’t created equal. We’re not all traditionally employed: some of us file as self-employed; others as gig owners; still others as freelancers. Taxes can get complicated if your employment status is unconventional.
TurboTax is exceptional in taking on out-of-the-ordinary tax situations. They’re masters of tailoring help to fit specific employment, income, filing status, and even major life changes that can affect tax matters. You could say that Turbo Tax takes your tax returns personally!
TaxSlayer
TaxSlayer markets software that provides step-by-step assistance through the tax filing process. The software boasts free and unlimited support from Tax Slayer via email or during a phone call. Love this! An actual person you can speak to!
TaxSlayer provides the basics, but it also has exclusive tax tips you won’t find anywhere else. And they give you a heads-up about any tax law changes that might affect you so you’re always up to date.
Column Tax
What makes Column Tax a favorite of so many filers? Although it’s not as well-known as H&R Block and TurboTax, this hidden gem promises a super-easy and convenient experience during what looks like a harrowing tax season. With reliable support, a user-friendly layout, and simple prompts to guide you along the way, Column Tax is a winner…at half the price of the bigger companies.
Note: Column Tax is less flexible when handling complex tax situations and is best suited for traditional employees with a W-2 and a standard set of deductions.
FreeTaxUSA
It’s true, folks – FreeTaxUSA’s services are totally free!
Must be a scam, right? Nope! According to their website, you get customer support, printable tax returns, tax extensions, and Federal tax returns for a total of…zero dollars. That’s right. It’s free. Just like the name says.
As a top-rated software with a 4.8 rating, you’re in good hands. So if you’re hoping to get some help but don’t want to break the bank, FreetaxUSA has your name written all over it.
IRS Free File
Last but not least, there’s IRS Free File. It’s part of the IRS and gives you guided tax software and fillable forms, along with a lot of advice on a realm of tax issues.
Only problem is, will there be anyone left at the IRS to run the site? Which leads me to wonder: who’s doing the IRS’s taxes this year?
One way or another we’ll make it through what might be the most challenging tax season in years. Best get started right this minute!
