A tax software is a computer-based software that is developed to help taxpayers, companies, and individuals to prepare and file tax returns. The software simplifies the process of filing taxes by helping the user conveniently get through the tax forms and issues. It also automatically calculates the tax obligation of the taxpayer, thereby streamlining all the steps involved. A tax software is a great option to consider, for taxpayers who have their tax-time priorities in advance. If you are looking to get a tax software, here are four popular tax software programs that can fulfill your requirements.
TurboTax
TurboTax is one of the most popular and widely used tax software for personal tax preparation. Developed by Intuit, this is also one of the tax software programs that will require you to shell out top-dollar, albeit it gives you worth for your bucks. The tax software caters to the need of every category and is lauded for its user experience. Just like being engaged by a tax professional, the TurboTax software will provide guidance and deliver questions with appropriate answers. One of the notable features include the ‘Smartlook’ feature that allows you speak face-to-face with a tax expert. If you are looking for all the features, you must opt for the deluxe version.
Credit Karma
Credit Karma is a relatively new tax software program on the bandwagon. This tax software comes in a free version and can do a lot more than one can expect. To begin with, it is capable of handling most complex tax situations. With a good and functional interface, you may find it a little different from streamlined programs out there. Credit Karma offers tax preparation for free while monitoring programs will be charged for at a monthly premium.
H&R Block
It is yet another tax software that can carry out just about any function. As you prepare for your tax returns, H&R Block will efficiently assist you through the process. Moreover, if you ever find yourself stuck between the line, the Help window will let you seek additional answers. One of the best advantages of this software is that a taxpayer can sit down with a professional for free, after purchasing the software. The company offers free and paid versions, consider your needs and pick wisely.
TaxSlayer
This is another affordable tax preparation service that appeals to users for its ‘Quick File’ option. Initially designed to aid tax professional, the tax software now caters to needs of individuals looking to file personal returns. TaxSlayer allows convenient support of all major IRS forms and schedules; thus, the user does not have to deal with the hassle. If you ever hit a brick wall during the tax filing process, seek help through email and phone help.
There are companies that work on collecting and maintaining credit information of consumers. These are known as credit reporting agencies (CRAs). There are three such major CRAs in the country, namely Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Apart from these, there are other smaller-scale agencies too that specialize at the job. If you’re worried about “where to get my credit score?,” the larger CRAs are the most reliable bets.
These major CRAs obtain information from companies that you hold business and transactions with. People or companies that lend you money regularly report to these CRAs on your repaying status. There is also detailed information on the amount you are indebted and whether you have ever defaulted on your payments. Aside from the reports obtained from lenders, these companies also tally your general records based on certain other aspects. Some of these aspects are your public records from the local and state judiciary. These include your tax records and bankruptcy information. This information makes up an important chunk of your credit score and its report.
Equifax
Present in 24 countries, Equifax is an agency that offers consumers protection against identity theft and credit fraudulence. They also sell credit reports and credit monitoring assistance to businesses.
Experian
Experian started off in London and is now a trusted agency in 39 different countries. It provides you with a credit score, credit report, and even credit tracker on subscription. The agency uses FICO 8 system of credit score calculation. Experian was a part of Forbes’ “World’s Most Innovative Companies” in 2018.
TransUnion
Based across 30 countries with a database of over 1 billion consumers, TransUnion is another CRA giant. The agency, like the other ones, will provide you with your credit score and your credit reports. In case you decide to freeze your TransUnion credit report, it will also go the extra mile to notify Equifax and Experian, which frankly is a big help especially in case of identity theft and credit fraud.
So, the next time you are sat wondering “where to get my credit score?,” think of these three giants that provide you with an annual credit score and credit report for free once each year. However, if you are looking for more frequent updates, you can subscribe to their services and receive your monthly updates.
Did you know that you have more than a single credit score? Agencies calculate your credit score based on the data in your credit reports. If you are wondering, “where to get my credit score?,” there are three main credit reporting agencies. These can have different credit scores for you if your information on each of their credit reports is different. Also, these agencies charge a fee to reveal your credit score.
Recently, it has become easier to track and get hold of your credit score without paying any fees. You can get it from your credit card company, your loan provider, and even from a non-profit counselor. Here are a few tips you can use to check your score.