I completed my Federal and State taxes last weekend online for a cost of $15. Instead of buying a copy of Quicken or TaxCut I did my entire reurn on online in my web browser using TaxAct which offers free Federal tax preparation and filing. Check out the video:

 

 

I have used TaxAct now for the last 3-4 years and have never had a problem. I am able to automatically import data from last year's return. They have a interview process similar to other tax prep software which automatically finds applicable deductions or alerts you if something is wrong or missing. I was able to get my state tax refund within a few days.

If you are not comfortable doing your taxes online, you can download their software as well. But if you bank onine, TaxAct uses the same type of secure encrypted connection. I first discovered them when I wanted to be able to file my taxes on a Linux computer and there are no tax programs for Linux that I am aware of. Also, I wanted an alternative to the pricey options from Intuit. I now use a Mac and had no problems.

TaxAct was very easy to use, yet very thorough and very reliable. I never had a dropped connection or errors online while completing my return. You have the option of printing and mailing your return if you want, but using e-file with direct deposit is probably the fastest way to get your money back from the government. 

The only negative I have about them is the additional large fee they charge you if you select the option to deduct the filing fee from your return. I think it is an extra $15. You are much better off paying the filing fee with your credit or debit card to avoid the fee.

TaxAct does not offer refund anticipation loans, but that is a good thing in my book. I think such loans are a waste of money. If you waited this long you can wait a little longer and save yourself some money.