“Nothing is certain in life but death and taxes,” and this year is no exception. With new tax laws being enforced that means major changes for everyone, and it’s easy to get confused with having to do your own. These five tax apps will help you determine the best guidance you need to make sure you get the biggest refund or the lowest tax bill available.
Best Tax Apps
TurboTax
One of the most well-known tax apps, this one is pretty straightforward, but works best for those with simple taxes that don’t need an accountant. Simply snap a picture of your W-2 and answer some basic questions about you and your life, and TurboTax will recommend a free or paid package that should get the job done. Cost: Free for basic federal returns, starting at $39.99 for the deluxe version.
IRS2Go
While this is not a tax filing app, this straight-from-the-source IRS2Go app is full of helpful resources. It can help you find a free place to file, and keep you updated on the status of your e-return or mailed return, as well as offering the chance to pay your tax bill directly online or get the status of your refund. Cost: Free
H&R Block
This interactive app is similar to TurboTax, but offers the back-up of an H&R tax specialist for those that need questions answered or decide to go the professional route. You can estimate your return, find your nearest H&R Block specialist, and create a customized tax-prep checklist to make sure you have all of your documents and ducks in a row. Cost: Free for basic returns, starting at $49.99 for the deluxe version
ShoeBoxed
This helpful service helps you keep track of your receipts and expense reports throughout the whole year so you don’t miss a beat when it comes to tax time. Simply snap a picture of your receipts and the ShoeBoxed app will turn them into a digital copy that the IRS will accept, as well as keep them all organized for you. You can even export your documents to QuickBooks for easy access anytime. Cost: Starting at $29 a month
Taxcaster by Intuit
Another way to estimate your refund or your bill easily, this app asks you a few financial questions along with questions about your personal status for the tax year, and lets you easily estimate your refund or bill without having your documents right in front of you. The whole process takes little more than a few minutes and can help you get a better look at your taxes for the year before you file. Cost: Free to download