Consumer Reports Releases Tax Tips

2013 Tax Tips

Consumer Reports is a trusted source in products and services.  They recently released their tips for 2013 taxes, which are about online and computer tax services.  These tips help consumers not get caught up into any questionable tax services and help them save money when filing their 2013 taxes.  Consumer Reports offers the following tips for 2013 taxes:

Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

• Check what the online service has available.  Simple forms like the 1040, 1040EZ, and Schedule A for itemized deductions are provided by most online tax services.  However, if you need a more specific form, schedule, or topic, certain online tax providers may not have it available.  Some tax services do not help consumers who have farm income, adoption expenses, foreign income and various other uncommon tax issues.

• Make sure the service supports your state taxes.  Paying for a tax service that will be unable to file your state taxes is not worth your time or money.  Check for this before paying for a service.

• Research the tax company prior to using their service.  Use a search engine like Google or Bing to see what other consumers are saying.  You can also check other sites like the Ripoff Report or Pissed Consumer.

• Check prices.  Compare the prices of different services.  Many online tax services charge more than just a flat rate fee.  Some charge for paper copies of your taxes or to file an extension.  Others charge more as the tax deadline draws closer.

• If possible, stay away from additional advertisements in the form of pop-ups.  Many online tax preparation services will bombard you with pop-ups trying to convince you to upgrade your service at a cost.  You can avoid these solicitations by using the IRS Free File service.  This program is designed for those with an adjusted gross income of $57,000 or less.  To find out more information on the program, visit the IRS website.

Using these tips provided by Consumer Reports will help you choose the right tax service for your situation.  They will also help you to save money when preparing your taxes and decrease the chances you will pay for something you do not need.  In addition, they can help you avoid potentially shady tax services.

Consumer Reports Releases Tax Tips by
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