How to Download 2021 Tax Software
If you are looking for a convenient, fast, and accurate way to file your taxes, you might want to consider using online tax software. Online tax software can help you prepare and file your federal and state tax returns with ease and confidence. In this article, we will show you how to download 2021 tax software, how to choose the best one for your situation, and how to use it to file your taxes.
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Why You Should File Your Taxes Online
Filing your taxes online has many advantages over filing them on paper or hiring a professional. Here are some of the benefits of online tax filing:
It's faster. You can complete your tax return in less time than it would take you to fill out paper forms or visit a tax preparer. You can also get your refund sooner if you e-file and choose direct deposit.
It's easier. You don't need to worry about finding the right forms, doing the math, or making mistakes. Online tax software guides you through a series of questions and fills out the forms for you. It also checks for errors and missing information.
It's cheaper. You can save money by using online tax software instead of paying a professional fee or buying paper forms. Many online tax software options are free or low-cost, especially if you qualify for IRS Free File or other programs.
It's safer. You can protect your personal information and avoid identity theft by using online tax software. Online tax software encrypts your data and transmits it securely to the IRS. It also prevents fraudsters from filing a fake return in your name.
Options for Online Tax Filing
There are four main options for online tax filing:
IRS Free File. This is a program that allows qualified taxpayers to prepare and file their federal income tax returns online for free using guided tax preparation software from IRS partners. You can use IRS Free File if your adjusted gross income (AGI) is $73,000 or less in 2021. Some IRS Free File partners also offer free state tax preparation and filing. You can access IRS Free File at .
Free File Fillable Forms. This is an option that allows anyone to file their federal income tax returns online for free using electronic versions of IRS paper forms. You should know how to prepare your own tax return using IRS instructions and publications if you use this option. There is no guidance or assistance provided by the software. There is also no state tax preparation and filing available. You can access Free File Fillable Forms at .
Paid Tax Software. This is an option that allows anyone to prepare and file their federal and state income tax returns online using commercial tax software from various providers. You have to pay a fee to use this option, which may vary depending on the features and services you choose. Some of the benefits of paid tax software are that they offer more support, accuracy guarantees, audit protection, and refund advances. Some of the popular paid tax software providers are TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct , and TaxSlayer. You can compare the features and prices of these providers in the table below.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). These are programs that offer free tax help to low- to moderate-income taxpayers, persons with disabilities, and elderly taxpayers. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals. You can find a VITA or TCE site near you at .
How to Choose the Best Tax Software for Your Situation
With so many options for online tax filing, how do you decide which one is best for you? Here are some factors to consider when comparing tax software:
Your income and tax situation. Depending on your income level and the complexity of your tax return, you may qualify for free or discounted tax software. For example, if your AGI is $73,000 or less, you can use IRS Free File. If you have a simple tax return with only W-2 income and standard deduction, you may be able to use any of the free versions of the paid tax software. However, if you have more complicated tax situations, such as self-employment income, rental income, capital gains, itemized deductions, or credits, you may need to upgrade to a higher tier of the paid tax software.
Your preference and comfort level. Depending on how confident you are in preparing your own taxes, you may prefer a tax software that offers more or less guidance and support. For example, if you are a beginner or have a lot of questions, you may want a tax software that provides step-by-step instructions, explanations, tips, and access to live experts. However, if you are an experienced or savvy taxpayer, you may want a tax software that allows you to skip the interview process and enter your information directly on the forms.
Your budget and value. Depending on how much you are willing to spend on tax software, you may want to compare the prices and features of different providers. For example, if you are looking for the cheapest option, you may want to use IRS Free File or Free File Fillable Forms. However, if you are looking for the best value, you may want to consider the quality, accuracy, and convenience of the tax software as well as any additional services or benefits they offer, such as audit protection, refund advance, or accuracy guarantee.
Top-rated Tax Software of 2021
To help you narrow down your choices, here are some of the top-rated tax software of 2021 based on customer reviews and expert ratings:
Tax SoftwarePrice RangeFeatures
TurboTax$0-$120 for federal; $0-$50 for state- Easy to use interface and navigation- Comprehensive guidance and explanations- Access to live experts via phone or video chat- Audit support and representation- Refund advance up to $4,000- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantee
H&R Block$0-$109.99 for federal; $0-$44.99 for state- User-friendly design and flow- Clear instructions and tips- Access to live experts via chat or screen share- Audit support and representation- Refund advance up to $3,500- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantee
TaxAct$0-$64.95 for federal; $4.95-$54.95 for state- Simple and straightforward interface- Helpful alerts and reminders- Access to live experts via phone or email- Audit support and representation- Refund advance up to $1,000- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantee
TaxSlayer$0-$54.95 for federal; $0-$39.95 for state- Improved usability and functionality- Flexible input options- Access to live experts via phone or email- Audit support and representation- Refund advance up to $1,000- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantee
How to Download and Install Tax Software on Your Device
Once you have chosen the best tax software for your situation, you need to download and install it on your device. Here are the steps to do so:
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Steps to Download Tax Software from the Official Website
The first step to download tax software is to visit the official website of the provider you have chosen. For example, if you have chosen TurboTax, you can go to . Once you are on the website, you need to follow these steps:
Select the product you want to buy. Depending on your tax situation and preference, you can choose from different versions of the tax software, such as Free Edition, Deluxe, Premier, or Self-Employed. You can compare the features and prices of each version on the website and select the one that suits your needs.
Add the product to your cart and check out. Once you have selected the product you want to buy, you can add it to your cart and proceed to check out. You will need to enter your personal and payment information and confirm your order. You will also need to create an account or sign in to your existing account if you have one.
Download the software to your device. After you have completed your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to download the software. You can also access the download link from your account on the website. You will need to click on the link and follow the instructions to save the software file to your device.
Steps to Install Tax Software on Your Device
The next step to install tax software is to run the software file that you have downloaded on your device. Depending on the type of device and operating system you have, the installation process may vary slightly. However, here are some general steps that apply to most devices:
Locate and open the software file. You will need to find the software file that you have downloaded on your device. It may be in your Downloads folder or on your Desktop. The file name may vary depending on the provider and version of the tax software, but it usually ends with .exe or .dmg. You will need to double-click on the file to open it.
Follow the installation wizard. Once you have opened the software file, you will see a window with an installation wizard that will guide you through the installation process. You will need to agree to the terms and conditions, choose a destination folder, and click on Install or Next buttons until the installation is complete.
Launch the software and activate it. After the installation is complete, you will see a window with a button to launch the software. You can also launch the software from your Start menu or Applications folder. The first time you launch the software, you may need to activate it by entering your license code or signing in to your account. You can find your license code in your email confirmation or on your account page on the website.
How to Use Tax Software to Prepare and File Your Taxes
The final step is to use tax software to prepare and file your taxes. Here are the steps to do so:
Steps to Create an Account and Enter Your Personal Information
The first step to use tax software is to create an account and enter your personal information. You will need to provide your name, email address, phone number, and password to create an account. You will also need to choose a security question and answer to protect your account. Once you have created an account, you will need to enter your personal information, such as your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and dependents. You will also need to enter your address and contact information.
Steps to Enter Your Income and Deductions
The next step to use tax software is to enter your income and deductions. You will need to gather all the documents that report your income and deductions, such as your W-2s, 1099s, 1098s, receipts, and statements. You will also need to answer some questions about your income and deductions, such as whether you have a business, a rental property, or a retirement account. The tax software will guide you through the process of entering your income and deductions and will calculate your taxable income and tax liability.
Steps to Review Your Tax Return and Pay Any Fees
The third step to use tax software is to review your tax return and pay any fees. You will need to check your tax return for accuracy and completeness before you file it. The tax software will alert you of any errors or missing information and will suggest ways to improve your tax outcome. You will also need to pay any fees that apply to the tax software or the filing method you choose. Some tax software may charge a fee for using certain features or services, such as live experts, audit protection, or refund advance. Some filing methods may also charge a fee, such as e-filing or direct deposit.
Steps to E-file or Print and Mail Your Tax Return
The final step to use tax software is to e-file or print and mail your tax return. You can choose the method that works best for you. E-filing is faster, easier, and safer than mailing your tax return. You can e-file your federal and state tax returns with the IRS and the state tax agency electronically. You will need to provide your bank account information if you want to receive your refund by direct deposit or pay any taxes you owe by direct debit. You will also need to sign your tax return electronically using a personal identification number (PIN) or a self-select PIN. You will receive a confirmation email when your e-filed tax return is accepted by the IRS and the state tax agency.
If you prefer to print and mail your tax return, you can do so by following the instructions provided by the tax software. You will need to print a copy of your federal and state tax returns and any forms or schedules that are required. You will also need to sign your tax returns manually and attach any supporting documents, such as your W-2s or 1099s. You will need to mail your federal tax return to the IRS address that corresponds to your state and filing status. You can find the IRS address at .
Conclusion and FAQs
In conclusion, online tax software is a convenient, fast, and accurate way to file your taxes. You can download 2021 tax software from the official website of the provider you choose, install it on your device, and use it to prepare and file your federal and state tax returns. You can also compare different options for online tax filing based on your income level, preference, comfort level, budget, and value.
Here are some frequently asked questions about online tax software:
Q: When is the deadline to file my taxes?A: The deadline to file your federal income tax return for 2021 is April 18, 2022. The deadline may vary for state income tax returns depending on the state you live in.
Q: How do I get my refund?A: The fastest way to get your refund is by e-filing your tax return and choosing direct deposit as your refund method. The IRS issues most refunds within 21 days of accepting your e-filed tax return. Some online tax software providers also offer refund advance loans that allow you to get a portion of your refund before the IRS issues it. However, these loans may have fees and interest charges that reduce your refund amount.
Q: How do I pay my taxes?A: The easiest way to pay your taxes is by e-filing your tax return and choosing direct debit as your payment method. The IRS will automatically withdraw the amount you owe from your bank account on the date you specify. You can also pay your taxes online using other methods, such as credit or debit card, electronic funds transfer, or IRS Direct Pay. You can find more information about these methods at . You can also pay your taxes by mailing a check or money order to the IRS along with a payment voucher.
Q: How do I check the status of my tax return or refund?A: You can check the status of your e-filed tax return or refund online using the IRS Where's My Refund tool at . You will need to enter your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount. You can also check the status of your mailed tax return or refund by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1954.
Q: How do I get help if I have questions or problems with my tax software or tax return?A: You can get help from the tax software provider you have chosen by visiting their website, calling their customer service number, or accessing their online chat or email support. You can also get help from the IRS by visiting their website, calling their toll-free number, or visiting a local office. You can find more information about IRS help and resources at .
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