Well, we know it is almost tax time. April 15 is just around the corner, and if your taxes are very difficult to figure out at all, then you probably have already been working on them. Mine are no fun anymore, so I have them done by a real accountant…its the only way to guarantee that I get all that’s coming to me!

Today, I came across a couple of things that may be helpful to those who are preparing their taxes. As a disclaimer, I will say that I haven’t actually used these services, but they may be of help to others out there. So, check these out if you think they can help you get things situated at this dreaded time of the year.

First: TaxAct

With TaxAct, you can prepare, file and print your tax returns.  You can e-file your returns, and get your refund in as little as 9 days, according to the literature at the site.  After poking around the site a bit, I cannot find anything that raises flags.  I see no reason not to use this product, especially if your taxes are relatively simple.  You can also process your State returns through TaxAct, but that will cost you a bit.  Still, it would be cheaper than an accountant, and it would also be less hassle than having to go through the process twice (once online for federal and once offline for State).

You can also download the software to your computer if you think that would be a better option than filling in forms online.  The standard version of the software is free, but you can get the Deluxe version or the Ultimate version for a small fee.  If you pay for a box version of software, you may be able to download this cheaper.  As I said before, I don’t use these programs because it is easier for me to send mine to an accountant.

Second:   Tax Brain

This is another online tax preparation company, where you can prepare your files, and then e-file.   Prices for this service start at $14.95, but they offer a couple of features not offered through TaxAct.  You can deduct all preparation fees directly from your refund, and then receive your refund either via paper check, or by direct deposit.  A second feature that is offered is a “refund loan”.  You can select the option of having the total of your refund sent to you within 2 days as a loan, which is to be repaid upon receiving your refund.

You can log in, and enter all of your information to try this product without paying anything.  You are only charged when you e-file and print your returns.  So, you can easily try one or both of these services to see which one is better for you.

Maybe this info will be helpful to you as you try to get your taxes filed this year.  Either of these products could save you money, and get you your returns faster.  Check them out!