what is turbo tax

You may notice that, unlike other providers, TurboTax doesn’t have a standalone Self-Employed DIY package. That’s because, in recent years, the company consolidated its Premier package (for investors) and Self-Employed package (for freelancers) into that „Premium” package. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. TurboTax calculations are 100% accurate so your taxes will be done right, guaranteed, or we’ll pay you any IRS penalties. We bring together seasoned experts and powerful technology to get your taxes done right.

TurboTax’s customer support options

Intuit reserves the right to modify or terminate any offer at any time for any reason in its sole discretion. Unless otherwise stated, each offer is not available in combination with any other TurboTax offers. Certain discount offers may not be valid for mobile in-app purchases and may be available only for a limited period of time.

what is turbo tax

W-9 Form and Taxes: What Independent Contractors Need to Know

There’s also live human assistance if you get in over your head — or just want a tax pro to do the heavy lifting. In addition, TurboTax integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks (both are owned by Intuit), making it a smart choice if you’re a small business owner or self-employed worker who utilizes both products. Another thing that I think wasn’t very clear in your review is how Live services works. When you contact TurboTax for support while preparing your return, this is considered part of the Live service. If you were working in a regular DIY version and you contact them, you will be automatically “upgraded” to Live. The only time you are (or should be) connected with an actual tax expert is when you request and schedule a final review at the end.

TurboTax Deluxe Edition

what is turbo tax

We offer free one-on-one audit guidance year-round from our experienced and knowledgeable tax staff. Besides being cheaper than TurboTax and H&R Block, it also allows every user access to its tax help service, Xpert Assist, which helps you get professional advice for your tax concerns. The platform is also simpler to use, with a shopping cart icon letting you know what package you have chosen to buy and how much you need to pay for the services used. TurboTax has several versions for different tax situations including helping you claim child tax credit and other limited credits that apply to your return. The software walks you through the entire tax filing process, from determining your filing status to entering deductions and credits so you get the most refund. Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported publisher and comparison service.

However, its products come at a price, and confident filers might find that similar offerings from competitors provide a better value. TurboTax offers a free version that lets you file a Form 1040 and claim limited tax credits. Confident filers may not need all the bells and whistles that most TurboTax ledger account online products offer, but some people may find the streamlined program and the availability of human help worth the extra cost. These prices are the list prices advertised as of March 4, 2025, without any discounts that TurboTax may offer to people who file early in the tax filing season. If you want to pay your filing fee out of your federal refund, TurboTax charges an extra $40 processing fee for the convenience.

what is turbo tax

State Tax Return Data

what is turbo tax

To file your returns, you can complete them manually, hire an accountant or invest in one of many tax preparation services available in the U.S. The majority of Americans file their taxes online, and the reasons for doing so are obvious. TurboTax offers many features that make it one of the easiest tax software to use. However, their prep fees for advanced returns can be expensive and a cheaper service can produce similar results if you’re willing to put in a more effort.

what is turbo tax

Some people may not need support beyond TurboTax’s excellent user interface, but those who want a bit of extra help from a tax pro will need to upgrade to another package type — Live Assisted. TurboTax may be best for someone who wants custom tax help without going into an office and dealing with a live person. It’s also a good option if you’re looking Bookkeeping for Chiropractors for a truly fee-free line of advance tax credit so you can access your money ASAP. Now that we’ve laid out the basics of TurboTax’s features, what’s the verdict on its performance?