Tax Prep Software Favorites

For those too busy to fully sort through their tax prep software models, here are some thoughts on some of the better available options:

1. TaxAct provides free software for filing an individual tax return. I've used it in years past and didn't run into many issues at all. They will charge you for the software necessary for preparing a state tax return however.
2. TurboTax is free for simple returns (1040-EZ), but will cost you around $50 for more difficult returns. Very good software. Pick it up at Wal Mart to save more than a few dollars over what Best Buy charges.
3. H&R Block software (formerly known as TaxCut) is also a good buy, and usually costs a little bit less than Turbo Tax.
   

There are other online tax prep software options available, that can be found by doing a simple search on Google. Of course, visiting the offices of a local CPA or H&R Block is an option too, but count on prices that are 3 to 4 times higher than just purchasing the software and pounding it out yourself.