CCH, a leading provider of tax law information and software, has been offering its CompleteTax online tax preparation and filing service for Wintel systems for a few years. Starting this year, Mac users can also take advantage of the service, preparing and filing their federal and state tax returns for US$17.95, according to company spokesperson Mary Jung. To take advantage of the service, you’ll need Mac OS 9 or higher and Internet Explorer 5 for Mac or higher.
CompleteTax lets you file a variety of tax returns, from 1040s to more complex returns common for small business owners or individuals with special tax situations. In fact, you can complete your entire return online. CompleteTax’s online organizer customizes itself based on responses to simple interview questions, filers need only enter information that is relevant for their specific tax return, Jung said.
An IRS e-file partner, CompleteTax can be used to can electronically file returns with the IRS as well as all 42 states that allow electronic filing. If you prefer to file a paper copy of your returns, you can print them from CompleteTax.
Taxpayers using CompleteTax’s electronic filing and automatic direct deposit option can get their refunds twice as fast as they would if they’d mailed their return, Jung said. Those owing money that file electronically also can pay the balance due on their federal and select state taxes via direct payment from their bank account. CompleteTax users who expect to receive a federal income tax refund may apply online for a refund anticipation loan for $29.95. If approved, they should receive their loans just a few days after the IRS accepts their electronic returns.
CompleteTax provides a fully searchable online tax reference library, as well as a tax calendar, glossary of terms and tax news, including issues new this year. Also provided are tax tools such as worksheets, tables and forms and planning calculators to help you accurately complete tax returns. Small business owners who purchase CCH’s Business Owner’s Toolkit Tax Guide 2002 print reference also will be able to file both a federal and a state return through CompleteTax at no charge.
Tax return information is password-protected on secured servers and encrypted using Secured Socket Layer protocol. You’re charged the $17.95 only when your return is complete, and you’re ready to either mail or electronically file your return, Jung said.