Free Online Tax Filing
If you've seen the ads offering free online tax preparation, and wondered, "What's the catch?", "Is this a phishing scam, or some other type of identity theft rip-off?", the answer is no. This is a legitimate service. So, if now you're wondering, "OK, then how do they make money?", the answer is the free tax preparation service is only free if your Adjusted Gross Income (which is your income after you've taken your deductions) is under $56,000. If your AGI is $56,001 or higher, there's a fee to file which is typically $15 and up. Additionally, the 'free' service is only for your Federal tax return. If you want to file your state tax return, you will also incur a fee of $15 and up for that service.
Even though this is a legitimate service, there are a few things you should do to protect yourself from scams. First of all, make sure the company you use is and authorized IRS e-file provider. Secondly, make sure they use an encrypted SSL server to transmit your personal information. Finally, make sure their privacy policy states that they won't share your information with anybody other than the IRS. If the service you choose is legit, all this information will appear on their home page.
Free online tax filing services offer many benefits, such as:
- Simple and fast tax filing
- No software to download, so you can use any computer that has an internet connection
- No risk of calculation errors or illegible tax returns (which are issues that might get you audited) Less expensive, and easier to use than software
- Faster tax refunds, and the option of direct deposit
- If you owe money, you can file now, and send the check later
- Safer and more secure than sending your tax returns through the mail
We've researched the available options for free online tax filing to determine which service is the best. We considered security, privacy, ease of use, quality of service, customer support, and cost, as the criteria for rating each company. After this research, we feel H&R Block is by far the best service. Here's why we like H&R Block:
- They double check all of their calculations to prevent possible errors.
- Will reimburse you for any interest or penalties that arise from an error in their program.
- They provide easy and free access to their network of over 110,000 tax professionals.
- They have the ability to handle more complicated returns, such as those with rental or investment income, or self employed individuals.
- Their service is easy to use, and most returns can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
- You'll get email notification when the IRS has accepted your tax return. If for some reason your return is rejected, they will notify you, and help you make corrections without additional charges.
- If you're owed a refund, you'll get it direct deposited to your bank account in just 8-15 days.
- 100% money back guarantee.
There are dozens of companies providing free online tax filing, but why trust something this important to just anybody? Get the experience, expertise, and professional support of H&R Block by clicking on the ad below.
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