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RaiderCPA
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Joined: 07 Jul 2008
Location: United States
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Posts: 279

Posted: 17 Jan 2011 at 14:13 \| IP Logged

Hello,

I'm going to be doing tax returns this year on my own and was looking for a tax software I could use to bill clients, efile, and one that has a decent research function.

Just using excel got a little messy at times last year, and I don't feel experienced enough to do everything on my own. I mean I am good at filling out returns, it's just handling the volume that concerns me.

Does anyone have any recomendations that would help me, that aren't too pricey? I have seen them anywhere from $100 to $2,500. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Raider

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Joined: 16 Jun 2010
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Posted: 17 Jan 2011 at 16:31 \| IP Logged

I've used TaxAct for the past three years. Basic package with all states is like 200.dollars. It does a great job. Do you have your EFIN and TPIN number yet? You will need both.

bob5000
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Joined: 27 Dec 2009
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Posts: 77

Posted: 18 Jan 2011 at 08:41 \| IP Logged

TaxAct also has my vote. I've used it for years for my personal taxes and I've used the Preparer's Edition to complete the IRS VITA practice returns for 2009 and 2010. The cost is miniscule and it is quite capable.

I just got my CPA license and PTIN and have also been thinking about doing taxes. I have no experience, though, and am scheduled for VITA work for about 40 hours just for the experience. They use TaxWise, which, IMHO, is a little clumsy compared to TaxAct.

I might look at hooking up with an established preparer (NOT one of the chains) if a job is available nearby. The pay will be much lower but I will also have no overhead and less risk. Doing taxes and running a tax practice are not one in the same. Any opinions on this?

RaiderCPA
Major Contributor

Joined: 07 Jul 2008
Location: United States
Online Status: Offline
Posts: 279

Posted: 27 Jan 2011 at 16:09 \| IP Logged

I only need one state so it won't be too high for me to get tax act.

But thanks everyone for your input, I think I'm going with tax act.

Also there is a great website you guys can use called excel1040.com or 1040excel.com (one of the two), it's free and great for storage purposes if you ask me.

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cpawannabe09
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Joined: 03 Feb 2009
Location: United States
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Posts: 28

Posted: 04 Feb 2011 at 23:38 \| IP Logged

Would you guys know whether I need a PTIN if I only prepare taxes for my friends and family for no charge? Any advise is greatly appreciated.

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