Tuesday, March 27, 2012

TurboTax for Preparation


Ask Ralph your question.
My significant other, Mike, is an over-the-road truck driver. Last year we bought a home; up to that point I prepared his tax returns myself but because of the home purchase I was not comfortable doing so. We ended up using Liberty Tax Service and were not at all happy with the results. The preparer had taken a course in preparing but actually worked in construction. We later found out that because we itemized (for the first time) there was a whole slew of deductions for which Mike qualified because of his employment but the preparer did not take. So this year Mike decided to ask coworkers for recommendations and was told to use TurboTax online; however, I am of the opinion that an automated online tax form is not going to help us find the deductions we should be using. Any thoughts?

Answer: This is a great question and one we get often. In life I have learned that you get what you pay for. I don't use TurboTax, but I think you can purchase it for about $50. You have already seen the results of going to a Tax Preparer with a "tax course" and the lack of experience when you took that route. Using a licensed Public Accountant is really your best option if you are looking for a professionally prepared tax return. In my case, I have a Master's Degree in Business and I have been preparing taxes for over 10 years. I am an expert in the tax field and I am certain that I know what questions to ask based on your significant other's job field. I would suggest you give us a try and see the difference that experience, education, licensure and professionalism bring. We welcome your call to schedule an appointment. We also offer a $35 discount for all new clients.

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