Early Tax Planning with TT Premier

[Cris]

I would like to do some tax planning before many of the TT sections are available.  For example, I want to estimate MAGI and AGI to determine how much of a traditional IRA distribution I should take in December.  If I distribute too much I risk losing some or all of my Senior Discount as one example.  I also want to see how much of a distribution I can take without going into a higher tax bracket as another example.  If the step-by-step code is not available, can I enter it directly into the forms?  Not sure how to do it.  I tried entering some raw data and it didn't seem to work.  Please advise.

I already have the 2025 version on my PC (acquired in November 2025) but trying to assess how valuable TT is before January.  What can I do in November and Dember?  What can't I do?

[rjs]

You can make entries on the forms, but if you're not familiar with forms mode it can be difficult and confusing. In general you can't make entries directly on Form 1040 or the other forms and schedules that get filed. You have to enter your information on supporting forms or worksheets that feed into the forms and schedules. In most cases, from a place where an amount should appear you can QuickZoom to the form or worksheet that feeds into it. The Help Center in forms mode will also give you a lot of guidance.

[baldietax · Accepted solution]

if you just want to do estimation for year-end planning try a simpler calculation tool like this

https://www.dinkytown.net/java/1040-tax-calculator.html

[Cris]

Very nice tool.  I was using a different tool (from a friend - not generally available) and after plugging in my numbers the total tax was within $16 which is very acceptable for my planning purposes.  Thanks for your excellent recommendation.

[Cris]

Thanks for your post.  It was very helpful.  I will likely just use the dinkytown.net calculator or another spreadsheet from a friend (not generally available).  These tax planning calculators give me what I need.