CNET editors' review
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Very good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 02/05/2009
TaxCut 2008 shares many qualities with TurboTax, its mainstream rival, but a new free session of live one-on-one support makes H&R Block's tax-prep package a clear winner in the customer service department. For many taxpayers, TaxCut 2008's live tax advice, free in-person audit support, and lower sticker price will trump TurboTax's more sophisticated tax tools.
Unfortunately, TaxCut's more confusing language is evident in its tax-prep interview. Likewise, without TurboTax's tool to import your 2008 W-2 and investment income information, it will take you longer with TaxCut to fill out your return. Regardless of its simpler toolset, TaxCut is a sturdy do-it-yourself tax prep app that guides you through your tax return one step at a time.
Which desktop version?
This review covers the desktop version of TaxCut Premium + State + E-file. TaxCut 2008 has three other versions for the desktop and several more online that are not listed below. This year, free federal e-filing for up to five returns is included in all of the following desktop versions.
• Free Federal Edition + E-file 2008: If you're filing a 1040-EZ, you'll do better with this free online version, added just this year.
• Basic Federal + E-file: Avoid this desktop version of the 1040-EZ, which will cost you $19.95, and use the Free Federal Edition (above) instead. State will still cost you an extra $30 either way.
• Premium + E-file ($34.95): If your state doesn't require you to pay taxes, this version covers most taxpayers' needs.
• Premium + E-file + State ($49.95): This versions adds a state review to TaxCut Premium.
• Home & Business + e-File ($79.95): Small business owners will receive one federal interview and unlimited state reviews for their business. This is TaxCut's only Windows-only app.
Setup and interface
Like most tax-prep apps, TaxCut 2008 installs in about 5 minutes, then takes approximately 5 more minutes to download updates. Most changes are midseason modifications to the tax law that are important for getting you more deductions, so it's worth it to just sit tight.
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