Deciding whether I should use TurboTax or continue with CPA

[toomuchtax321]

I've been using a CPA for the past 10 years or so and have never used TurboTax, but I'm considering to use TT instead.  My concern about making the change is that I have four rental properties in addition to my primary house.  They've been depreciated in filings each year for as long as I've had them.  Would it be relatively easy for me to determine the current depreciated base value and remaining depreciation period of each from previous returns and to depreciate from there in TT?  Also, does TT handle RSUs and ESPP plans well?

[AnnetteB6 · Accepted solution]

If your CPA provides you with a detailed depreciation schedule for your rental properties, then you can duplicate the depreciation information within TurboTax to continue the ongoing depreciation.  

TurboTax is equipped to handle RSUs and ESPP plans as well, with guidance along the way to enter the information needed.  

If you are willing to invest the time before you decide, you can start your return for free with no obligation using one of the TurboTax Online versions.  That way you can test the waters and see what you think.  You will not be asked to pay any fees until you actually file your return.  

Given that you have rental properties to enter, you should start with at least TurboTax Premier Online.

Use the following link to learn more:  TurboTax Premier Online

[Carl]

For 2019 do both.

Pay your CPA to complete your tax return with the understanding that you will personally sign them and *YOU* will personally mail them to the IRS (state also if your state taxes personal income.) Make it understood from the get-go that you want a printout of *EVERYTHING*. Not just the forms required for filing, and not just the forms to "keep for your records." You want *EVERYTHING*. Let the CPA do it, then go pick up the package and pay them.

Bring the package home and then purchase the ***DESKTOP*** version of TurboTax Home & Business. It's the most costly. But worth it for a first time user with rental property, as well as self-employment income if applicable.

I say the desktop version because for a first time user of TurboTax, the online version of the program is *NOT* *USER* *FRIENDLY*. I don't care what anyone else says. You try your first time with the online version and I can tell you right now the frustration will be all it takes for you to give up. The online version is *NOT* user-friendly for a first time user of the program.

So install the CD/Desktop version on  your computer and get started. Will you have question? Absolutely! But that's why we're here. You don't learn this stuff through osmosis.

You can buy the desktop version of TurboTax 2019 directly from Intuit at https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/cd-download/ and once you pay for it, you can download the CD installation file and install the program "immediately". However, you may find it cheaper at your local Wal-Mart, Target, or other big chain authorized retailer of the product.

[toomuchtax321]

Thanks for your input.  I purchased the desktop version at Costco and will give it a try.  My plan is to have my CPA do it as you suggested, but to also input all of it into Turbo Tax myself and see how it goes.  If all goes well, I'll skip the CPA next year and do it myself.
I appreciate your help.