What Is the Best Tax Software to Be Using in 2019?

Published on: 28 March 2019 Last Updated on: 04 November 2024

If you fail to file your taxes correctly, the IRS can fine you a penalty up to 20% of the amount you owe.

Taxes are a complete nightmare for many people especially if you can’t pay them. And the last thing you want to deal with is owing even more money to the government.

That’s why the emergence of tax software has helped so many people. It helps you make sense of the confusing terminology, perform calculations, and break the process down into easy steps.

But what is the best tax software and how does it help simplify everything? This article covers everything you need to know.

The Criteria for Best Tax Software:

Everyone is different and the tax software available now tends to be tailored to different audiences with bank products and other solutions available.

For example, a family of four with a house and one income earner will have a fairly straightforward process. But what about someone who is self-employed or a small business owner? In these cases, some companies offer tiered pricing models that can quickly become expensive.

When asking questions like “Why would anyone use a bank product?” or “Is this service right for me?” it’s important to consider the following.

Ease of Use:

There’s no point paying for a system that is just as confusing as the tax forms themselves. Check out reviews from other people to see what their experiences with the company were. Or watch a ‘how to’ video for a preview of the software.

Are Your Taxes Complicated:

Between deductibles, donations, and multiple sources of income, taxes can get complex very quickly. If you’re unsure what you qualify for and what options are available to you then tax software may be the way to go.

Look at State Tax Prices:

Some tax software companies include state tax in their services free of charge. Others ask for a fee and class it as an additional service. Be sure to look into the costs behind each one to be sure.

With that said, here are the best online tax filing options out there.

TurboTax:

Known for its simplicity and ease of use, TurboTax has many features and designs to help you file without a headache.

The use a simple step by step process that puts questions in laymen’s terms and does the hard work and calculations for you. They even offer a W-2 scanner where upload a photo of your form and it automatically sorts the information on your tax forms.

They have a free option for getting your taxes ready to file. But can charge past $100 if you want more premium services like a tax specialist to talk to.

Tax Act:

Similar to TurboTax, TaxAct offers a sliding scale of costs for users depending on the level of service they want.

Their layout makes it easy to input data and offers free state tax returns for simple forms. If you’re a homeowner or business owner however, then you will have to pay a fee for state taxes.

If you are unhappy with the service you’ve received from other tax software companies, TaxAct makes it easy to import your old information over to them.

H&R Block:

Known for their stand-out customer support, H&R Block takes the uncertainty out of the equation with tax specialists on call and online.

It has a similar model and pricing structure to the previous companies but also offers up to $3000 of interest-free loans to anyone entitled to federal tax refunds.

Shop Around:

Knowing what the best tax software is for you takes time and research.

This list helped narrow things down but you should still look into each company in more detail to see what will work best for you.

Check out our other finance articles for more tips and advice.

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The Importance Of Saving: The Bedrock of a Bright Financial Future

Personal finance goals cannot take off without first putting in place a savings plan. Many people know that it is important to have one and execute it, but for some reason, they still end up not saving. One must be deliberate about it and must also put together a concrete plan which when followed can lead to the achievement of their financial goals. Cost of living is high and there may be times where emergency funds are needed. It is important to note that the savings plan should not feel too constraining or draining. One must balance savings and discretionary funds. So how does one go about creating a savings plan? Here are some considerations: The Importance Of Saving: The Bedrock of a Bright Financial Future: 1. Start by setting a goal: Goals are a major motivating factor where money and saving is concerned. One must identify the end result of their savings. What is the money for? What does the person hope to achieve? This can be a dream holiday, saving for that down payment so one can finally purchase their own home, or even saving for when one retires. Or perhaps, one wishes to go for Lasik surgery and the cost of Lasik in Singapore is not cheap, so they will need time to prepare the funds. Setting a goal drives the saver and also encourages them when they have to delay gratification on other things because achieving the goal becomes the ultimate reward. 2. Separate funds: It is important that savings be put in an account separate from money for day to day expenses. If the money can be in a locked account, this is even better. Unfortunately, life has a way of smelling out “extra” funds, which means that a situation can easily arise which will cause the saver to dip into these funds. Having the money in an account that can’t easily be accessed is thus a great idea. 3. Track expenses and cut back: Personal finance includes tracking one’s expenses so that he or she can determine how they are spending their money, and how much can actually go into savings. Expenses generally fall into 3 categories. Fixed expenses. These include rent or mortgage, loan repayments, insurance premiums and the like. Variable expenses. These may include utility bills, cell phone bills, grocery shopping and the like. Discretionary expenses. Usually, these are expenses that mainly want and not needs. They include money for a cup of java, eating out, clothing, the gym and the like. It is good to make sure that one puts aside some discretionary money to use for enjoyment. Otherwise, a very stringent savings plan will prove impossible to execute and end up abandoned. Once all expenses have been tracked, one can identify areas where spending can be tightened to avail more money for saving. 4. Get rid of all temptation: It is amazing how temptations to spend can crop up out of nowhere. One must mitigate this risk to their savings by coming up with a plan to avoid any temptations. One of the best ways is to spend using cash only. That way, one knows just how much money has left their pocket and is able to limit their spending by stopping once their cash is finished. Of course, this means leaving the house with just the amount that one intends to spend. Another thing to do is to avoid aimlessly walking through shopping malls and to ensure that when going to the supermarket for groceries, they have a complete list that they do not deviate from unless they have carried money from their discretionary allowance. Finding hobbies that do not require spending lots of money can also go a long way in enabling one to save. 5. Make automatic transfer a friend: When it comes to personal finance, one has to execute its savings plan automatically where possible. This means that he or she can have a direct debit set up that pulls out the amount they want to save every month and deposits it in the designated savings account. This way, the saver will be saving first, and then spending based on what is left, instead of working up the willpower to put away money for savings from month to month. From there, it is about adapting to what is left and making sure that the person sticks to their budget. Getting started with saving is the most important thing because from there, one tends to gain the necessary momentum needed. One needs to ensure that the first savings goal is an emergency fund in which there is enough money to take care of 3 to 6 months expenses in the event that they lost their job. This money should be kept in an account where it earns good interest so that it is not lying idle. It is also important that the account be accessible should the need arise. Getting personal finance right is not difficult, but it definitely requires self-discipline. If one can get that right, he or she will be well on his or her way to financial freedom and a brighter future. Read Also: 5 Must-Have Long-Term Goals For A Secure Future How To Select The Best Investment Plan For Your Child?

How To Apply For A Mortgage Loan Without Making Common Errors

Making a Mortgage Loan application is challenging and dangerous. Potential homeowners must know how to overcome these challenges. Thorough planning and awareness of common errors are the first measures to guarantee a flawless application. Several websites offer valuable details regarding this process. What Is A Mortgage Loan? Did you know what Mortgage is? Let me share with you about this type of loan where you can maintain or purchase a home, any type of real estate, or a plot of land. If you are a borrower then you have to agree that you have to pay back! You have to pay back the loan amount along with the interest rates to the lender! Typically, these types of payments are divided into principal and interest regularly leading to proper solutions. Once you completely made the payment, you are the sole owner of the property. However, if you are unable to make payment effectively in the given time, it is the property that acts as the collateral when securing the loan. Let me also share how there are several requirements that you need to meet to keep a minimum credit score! Let's talk about the benefits of a mortgage loan and how it helps in processing the aspects of the borrower! Benefits Of Mortgage Loan? There are several advantages of taking a home or a mortgage loan as it not only helps you in creating an asset but also contributes in giving you an idea of the real estate industry. You get a sense of accomplishment when you buy a house or a property even when paying a loan. After all, the money you pay is your hard-earned dollar! Furthermore, you will get low interest rates as it helps a potential buyer be more confident in investing. The hard-earned money that you will keep paying to own the house will make you proud. We cannot forget the flexible tenure especially when repaying home loans becomes so easy. You can extend your time of payment or even decrease it if you have a significant amount of money and you submit it. With principal repayments, you get tax benefits on both interest and principal amount! Overall, you must enjoy the overall loan payment especially when fulfilling the dream of owning your own home or property! How To Apply For A Mortgage Loan? For both businesses and individuals, use a mortgage so that when they make the purchase, be it entirely with your money upfront or take a loan to make payment. When you plan on applying for a mortgage loan, you aim to free your property from the expectations of the bank. Your home will be free and clear with fully amortizing the traditional mortgage. What you need to evaluate is the number of years through which you have to complete the payment. Mostly, people take years somewhere between 15 to 30 years. You get to learn about how to foreclose the property to the lender leading to completely making the payment thus, claiming the property! Undervaluing The Financial Inquisitive One of the most critical steps in the mortgage application process is lenders assessing an applicant's financial standing by considering their income, assets, debts, and credit ratings. A frequent error that can cause delays or rejection is not providing enough fiscal papers or outdated financial information. Pay stubs, tax returns, current financial statements, and any other pertinent financial documents should be provided to potential borrowers. Ensuring that these data accurately reflect the borrower's financial status and are current is imperative. Additionally, to prevent fraud and strengthen the application's credibility, make sure that financial commitments are clear and consult financial experts. Ignoring Credit Score Improvement A strong credit score is central to securing favorable loan terms for home purchases. Often, applicants need to pay more attention to the benefits of enhancing their credit score before initiating the home financing process. Errors in credit reports, outdated information, and unresolved debts can adversely affect a credit score. Individuals should obtain a credit report from major credit bureaus well before applying to correct any inaccuracies and to pay off outstanding debts. This proactive approach can significantly enhance one's creditworthiness in the eyes of lenders. Regularly monitoring credit status and avoiding new debt during the home loan application period are also strategic moves. These steps demonstrate financial responsibility and can further boost credit scores, ensuring better terms are available. Not Comparing Mortgage Offers Not doing any research before taking the first mortgage offer is another standard error. Varying lenders provide varying terms, costs, and interest rates. If borrowers shop around, they can avoid missing out on better terms that could end up saving them a lot of cash throughout the loan. Examining several lenders and carefully weighing their terms is advised. This covers the mortgage type, terms of repayment, interest rates, and any related costs. Further, arming candidates with the knowledge to negotiate better terms can be achieved by conducting in-depth studies of market trends and economic situations. Knowing the tiny print in every deal guarantees that there aren't any unanticipated fees that could drive up expenditures. Overlooking Total Costs A mortgage involves more costs than just principal and interest payments. They consist of insurance, taxes, fees, and occasionally additional costs like private mortgage insurance or homeowners association dues. Sometimes, applicants' budgets need to consider these extra costs. This oversight can lead to financial strain. It is crucial to understand all the costs involved and ensure that the monthly payments are manageable within one's budget. It is essential to advise applicants to include future property taxes and insurance increases in their fiscal planning. Thoroughly estimating these costs early prevents unpleasant surprises and secures economic stability. Lacking Long-Term Financial Planning Mortgage commitments typically last for many years, often up to 30 years. Short-sighted financial planning can lead to complications later on. Applicants should consider their long-term economic stability and any potential changes that might affect their ability to meet mortgage payments. This includes changes in employment, potential significant expenses such as higher education or health issues, and retirement planning. Effective financial planning should accommodate these factors to maintain mortgage payments without hardship. The Bottom Line Applicants for home mortgage loans can avoid frequent mistakes by meticulously completing their applications before completing them. Potential owners can secure a mortgage that suits their needs and financial status by exercising caution and initiative. Ensure that one understands every aspect of the mortgage and that one will maintain financial stability for the term of the loan. Read Also: Property Valuation Software for Real Estate Appraisals 4 Mistakes New Rental Property Owners Must Avoid Benefits of Investing in City Centre Property

What To Consider When Investing In Gold Coins

Gold has an aesthetic allure that has captivated the human heart since its discovery. It has long been used in coinage, symbolizing wealth and power for the most prestigious rulers. Gold inspires the imagination and ignites the entrepreneurial spirit in many. It is a safe and profitable investment that provides a hedge against inflation and other environmental or socio-economic disasters that threaten to drain the value of other investments. Investing in gold coins is a wise choice when the right strategy is employed. However, it isn’t as simple as just ordering coins from the first website that pops up. Investing in gold coins is about minimizing risk to make a profit by investing in precious metal through an authorized dealer and storing it in a way that preserves its value. It’s also important to understand the difference between gold bullion coins and certified gold coins, along with the best way to diversify your personal portfolio to achieve your financial goals. Careful Consideration Factors Whether you are choosing to invest in gold bullion coins or certified gold coins, there are a few factors that will always be important. To minimize risk and maximize the value of your investment, you should consider a few factors before purchasing any coin. Gold Purity In order to inspect the purity of gold, metrics like fineness or karats are considered. The gold coin having the highest gold content is the purest. Although, it is worth mentioning that while higher purity might sound better, they can be loftier and prone to damage. Size and Weight Options Coins such as the American Gold Eagle are the most famous one-ounce coins. However, small denominations exist when you are searching for more affordable solutions in gold coin investment. Coin Scarcity Previously, rare gold coins used to hold numismatic value more than the gold content. But, additional common coins, such as bullion coins, are easier to sell as they are widely recognized. Overall Condition When it comes to investing in gold coins, their overall condition matters tremendously. Their condition in mint or near mint can fetch a greater price than those on the verge of getting damaged. Each of these factors directly affects the value of any coin, especially those purchased for investment purposes. Consider these factors carefully before making a purchase. Gold Bullion Coins Gold bullion coins are great for novice buyers and beginning investors because they are easy to buy and sell. Bullion coins are a little easier to understand for those who are just getting started, and they are easily accessible. They come in a variety of weights ranging from one-tenth of an ounce to one full ounce and are usually produced with a standard matte finish. Gold bullion coins are struck only once, with the design being pressed into the front and back of the coin. The price of gold bullion coins typically follows the spot price of gold in the market, making them fantastic for a short-term holding strategy. One of the most popular gold bullion coins is the gold American Eagle coins which are sought after globally. Bullion coins continue to exist in multiple forms and have served as a key type of currency in the history of investment. Investors opt for bullion coins as a protection against inflation. Such investors often show their concern that this fiat currency system is adequate in preventing unauthorized government practices. Certified Gold Coins Certified gold coins are evaluated and graded by a third-party service such as the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), which considers the coins’ condition and scarcity. The higher the grade a coin is given, the better condition it is in and the pricier it is. A certified coin’s rarity also contributes to its value in the marketplace. Many certified gold coins are proof coins meaning they have been struck multiple times. Most certified gold coins have been through a specific minting process which lends to their richly detailed design and mirror finish. They are sealed in tamper-resistant cases to protect their condition, which is closely related to their value. Certified gold coins are insulated from spot price volatility in the market, making them a fantastic long-term investment. Their rarity and grading process allows them to achieve a higher value over time than their bullion counterparts. It is important to note that collectors are sometimes willing to pay a premium for specific coins they wish to have to complete a collection. While this is sometimes true of investors, it is not as common. Certified coins often fetch a premium in the marketplace due to their rarity and physical condition. That premium tends to outpace the face value of the coin as well as the spot price of gold in the market. Best Investment Strategy Investing in gold coins is a wise choice if you diversify properly and purchase from a reputable trustworthy precious metals dealer. The best strategy is to diversify your investment portfolio with a combination of gold bullion coins and certified gold coins that position your portfolio to provide stable returns over time. Balancing your portfolio with stable investments that can withstand market volatility will give you the peace of mind and security you crave. A healthy combination of gold bullion coins and certified gold coins is the best option to ensure your investment provides a thriving return. Contact a reputable dealer today to purchase your gold bullion and certified coins to begin balanced investing in gold coins. Final Words Gold coins are a worthy form of investment, and they are easily available in both offline and online stores. If you are willing to buy a gold coin, make sure you consider the aforementioned factors. Check whether the rate of the gold coin is justified as per its size and availability. If you follow these steps, nothing can stop you from getting the most valuable gold coins. With this, we bring an end to this comprehensive guide. But don’t forget to bring home premium gold coins and start investing now! Read Also: Is Investment Bankers/Brokers/Service A Good Career Path In 2021? 5 Reasons Why Bitcoins Are Considered Reliable Investments 5 New Assets To Diversify Your Investments In 2021

What Is the Best Tax Software to Be Using in 2019?