being an investor with extenuating circumstances,this software covered all the situations,from special investments to social security backpay. easy to use,asked all the right questions.
I am a long-time user of the H&R Block software. It is very easy to use, and have never had an issue with it. I would give it 5 stars for functionality/accuracy/ease-of-use, but have to drop a couple of stars for all of the survey pop-ups, sales pitches, and "offers" that pelt you while you are using the product.
Pros: Easy to prepare, Maximizes refund, Easy to import documents, Fast
I have been using this software platform for around twenty years. Obviously, it works for me. I have, however noted a couple of issues;
1. The pre-file review will miss what I have to consider are common errors. Case in point, because of an attempt to steal my return I have a IP Pin sent to me each year. The review missed this omission. In previous years other discrepancies such as misidentifying interest as tax exempt, when it is not, got by the checker. 2. The interview for a form 1099-B continues to be poor. The format presented is inconsistent with what I receive from the brokerage.
The California version did not print the abbreviated computerized Form 540 for mailing. This is probably not a problem since the entire Form 540 was printed and mailed. But it confused me because it had always printed the abbreviated Form 540 in previous hears.
Also, for the printed mail version, the CA program did not include an "Assemble the return" note to attach 1099-R forms that include state income tax withheld. I did attach an applicable 1099-R form to my return, but I would have likely had to deal with providing the California Franchise Tax Board with that 1099-R information later after they adjusted my return because of not knowing the CA tax withheld info. I got into a hassle with California in the past when I e-filed the California return and there was no provision for validating the 1099-R tax withheld info in the e-file protocol. This is the reason I do not e-file my CA return.