This would be so very difficult to do by hand, without Turbo Tax. It still takes me a while to enter everything because we itemize deductions, but I am confident in the calculating of amounts. We've used Turbo Tax about 15 years now and don't want to use any other tax filing program.
What's great about it: Ease of listing all tax items
Turbo Tax is still one of the best tax preparation software programs available. Its options and interviews appear no different than a tax preparer except quicker and more efficient.
What's great about it: Options for step by step or choosing where to go is excellent
What's not so great: None except NC should make it easier to e-file instead of going to the state web site.
I used Tax Act for a few years when it was recommended by a co-worker. I find that Turbo Tax is much more user friendly. I already signed up to get it next year.
We've been using TurboTax for almost 10 years. It is easy to do and I can do it all at once or one piece at a time. Due to changes in our income, this year we'll have to pay a little. However, after double-checking everything because I couldn't believe that we owe this time, it turns out TurboTax was correct.
What's great about it: can do it at home
Pros: My job status changed this year (switched jobs, lost a job, got a raise or promotion)
I really like the question method of doing data input. It makes sure that I don't forget anything and it suggests ways to increase my refund, if I get one.
What's great about it: Answering questions to input my data.