Personal Finance: Organize, Manage, Research, and Invest Online
The Internet can streamline your ongoing personal finance tasks and keep you informed about changes and opportunities in the financial world that may affect you. There are tools for learning the basics, doing your banking online, and managing your budget, credit, and loans.
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Nobody likes paying taxes, but being prepared and efficient can save you time, money, and prevent a lot of irritation. Not only can you use the Internet to get yourself up-to-date on policy and procedure, you can also file your taxes online.
- If you file your taxes online and provide your bank information, the money you owe will be deducted automatically from your account. Remember to keep track of the payments you authorize so you don't have any nasty surprises.
- Although you can file your taxes for free online, if you're feeling confused or uncertain about any part of the process, it might be worth spending the few extra dollars for assistance.
To get the basics ...
IRS.gov
is the official government Web site of the Internal Revenue Service. You can get information about filing your taxes online for free and updates on how to get your tax refund-even from a few years ago. If you don't want to do your taxes online, it's possible to download all the forms and enter your information directly into the PDF document.
To calculate and file your taxes ...
H&R Block's TaxCut software
, like Intuit's, has versions both for online and desktop use. Unlike TurboTax, with TaxCut you get Federal and state preparation features together in one package, for flat rates, which range from $34.95 to $84.95. On the high end, you'll find a package with home and business tax capabilities.
TaxAct
allows you to prepare, print, and e-file your Federal tax return completely free of charge. For a fee, you can also file your state taxes and get extra benefits, such as phone support. TaxAct also has links to tax tips and a tax reference library. And, if you still have not filed your tax returns from the previous year, the necessary form is available for ordering.
Tax Help Online
offers definitions of tax terms, tips on saving money, and guidance on interacting with the IRS if you have a problem. The author of the site, a leading tax expert, also advertises free tax advice workshops, a free newsletter, and of course information on how to sign up and pay for his services.
To get outside help ...
HR Block
is a popular service for handling yearly taxes. Through the company site, you can choose to file your own taxes online, file your taxes online with assistance, or visit an HR Block office for help. Before you sign up, you can take an online tour of the tax-filing program and use the site's tax calculators.
1-800-Accountant
asks for your zip code and then finds you a certified public accountant in your neighborhood. The service promises a response within 24 hours and a free initial consultation with the accountant you select. If you prefer, you can call their 800 number to place your request.
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