topic Re: Us in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

Us

Lisa132 — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:41:08 GMT

SCAM!!!!!!! Never EVER EVER EVER use them. I just helped a friend with his tax return (4+ 12hr days). It was very detailed. He had a business, took all retirement during pandemic, w-2's, etc. Very intense. We used FREE TAX USA. I was very skeptical but it was TOTALLY FREE. I was so surprised but happy for him. I used turbo tax. Yes, I also had a complicated return with an ebay business making a little over $600 so I had to report, no w-2's or house. Got all the way to the end and they charged me $119 for a free account. I reluctantly paid because I just spent 3+ hrs doing them. I then went to electronically file both and couldn't file either. They charged me another $49 to file state and then charged me $5.15 for tax on top of everything. Total $173.15. I'm on disability and they had me at their mercy. Words don't describe how mad I am. For those of you that think you need turbo tax you don't. I was once loyal to them but NEVER AGAIN FREE TAX USA asked us so many more questions than turbo tax never did. I FEEL EXTREMELY RIPPED OFF. If I just reach 1 person this was all worth it. Stop being loyal, I once was. Just had to vent. Can't get a hold of them.

Re: Us

Anonymous_ — Thu, 02 Jun 2022 14:52:32 GMT

There is no such thing as one-size-fits-all DIY income tax preparation software (online or installed).

Some programs are, indeed, free but lack critical features (for some), such as import capabilities.

Each individual should do some basic research before selecting a program.

Re: Us

NCperson — Thu, 02 Jun 2022 15:53:31 GMT

@Lisa132 - here is another idea - the IRS runs two free programs in many local communities. Once is simply called "VITA" and the other called TCE (Run by AARP) . You google both VITA and AARP.

Both AARP and VITA will do 'straightfoward' tax returns for free. There is no age limintation for either program. AARP doesn't have an income limit, but VITA is limited to around $59,000 of income. The tax preparers all have to pass an IRS administered exam.

IT IS FREE

so it's good for those who have simple returns (W-2s, pensions, simple self-employed situations, dividends, interest, capital gains) but at the same time want peace of mind that the person who is entering everything "knows what they are doing".

Might be even better than another on-line software package (even if it is free)