I've used this program for years and generally like it but this year I had used part of my 2015 refund for my April 2016 estimated taxes. When doing this year's taxes I checked the box indicating that and on the next page put in my four estimated taxes done in 2016 and January 2017. However, the instructions on that page did not remind me to not put in the 2015 tax refund payment so they program counted it twice and now I have a big bill from the IRS. In checking it now there is a question box that does explain that but if you have no reason to click on the question you wouldn't know that. Very upsetting.
This software will not allow you to either pick up an interview you started in the online version, or to import prior year information for H&R Block online as a starting point, so it does not know your prior-year basis and other information, and never asked me about it, either.
Also, when I selected to have my state refund applied to next years taxes, over and over, it would not actually apply that and I had to fill out my state form manually with this information to correct that. Next year, if I use this product, it will be trying to say that I got that money back from the state and need to pay Federal taxes I'm sure...
Also, there were a couple of places where it said that I needed to figure out something on my own according to current IRS guidance, without providing even links to the worksheets they were referring to. so, I still had to have internet access to complete the taxes, and had fun trying to find out what was being discussed on my own.
I wouldn't feel confident doing my taxes without this step by step software! I feel that it thoroughly walks you through every question and helps you understand how to file your taxes with peace of mind.
Pros: Easy to install, Easy to fix issues, Easy to prepare, Maximizes refund, Easy to import, Fast
I bought this and processed my taxes. It all seemed fine until i tried to save the return and print it. It saved in a format that was not compatible with my laptop. When I tried to resave in a PDF format, i was instructed to down load the PDF software, however, I was unable to do so. Now I am unable to print my taxes.
Cons: Hard to fix issues
Pros: Easy to install, Easy to prepare, Easy to import