So we filed our taxes early this year. We used the H&R Block tax pro online (for the 4th year in a row) and I must say Im digging it. It took us about 30 minutes to fill out all the forms and check for errors and file. It would have taken longer but since we used the software last year it automaticaly imported our return from last year. There was one error that I corrected in about 2 minutes and refiled. All in all it was well worth the $40 that we are charged for it. There are some versions (for those in states like Washington) that only offer the federal return which is only $20, but since we live in Oregon we needed the state return as well (and since we live in Oregon, we once again owed on the state return).
Its actually funny about Oregon taxes. This year I opted to have an extra $50 taken out of my checks to go to Oregon. After having an extra $600 taken out this year, we still owed $500 to the state. I guess our governor forgot about all those tax breaks he was gonna give out this year. I can’t say as I blame him as I voted for the other guy.
Anyways, if you are going to do your taxes online and want an easy (and cheap) way to go, use H&R Blocks online tax prep software. You will be thanking me after you do.
One word of caution though; dont go with the Rapid Refund or refund expectance check. Its costs $80 and besides, you should be more than able to be patient for the 8-15 day waiting period before your return comes. If you file today you’ll have your refund months before the April 15th tax deadline.
-Cheers
Update: It seems that there have been a few hiccups with my return. I emailed the H&R Block people about it so we’ll see what they have to say.
Funny stuff about voting for the other guy.
I would not recommend paying additional tax out of each check though. If you do want extra money taken out to soften the blow at tax time, then put it in a CD at your local bank. If it goes to the State, then they are collecting interest on your money for the whole year and not reducing your taxes to compensate. I don’t know about you, but when it comes to me, if anyone is going to collect interest on my money it better be me.