Last-Minute Tax Deals for 2014

The stigma attached to tax season is more cause to worry than the actual process of filing your return. There are many online tax services that make it beyond simple to e-file, and it costs little to nothing to file for free or invest in high-grade software. The deadline is April 15, which makes it the time to get organized and choose a tax service provider. The IRS estimates 20 to 25 percent of taxpayers file in the last two weeks, so you’re not alone in your procrastination.

There are three safety nets available: If you make $52,000 or less, you qualify for free in-person tax preparation service from Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), a program that allows you to receive help from IRS-certified volunteers; if you’re unprepared or simply not in the mood, you can also file for an extension by filling out a Form 4868, which grants people six additional months for a new deadline in October; finally, if you’re someone who likes to do it yourself, there are many last-minute tax deals available at your disposal. Here are a few trusted tax services that offer impeccable deals:

Last-Minute Tax Deals

TaxACT

TaxACT is preferred by users for its affordability and simplicity. You can complete your return if you don’t have Internet by purchasing a copy of the software on CD for $5.99 (including shipping and handling) which is substantially less than TurboTax and H&R Block. Although TaxACT doesn’t offer coupons at the moment, its Deluxe federal edition is only $17.99—$22 less than the same version at TurboTax and H&R Block.

As a Norton-secured site and authorized e-file provider, TaxACT offers highly comprehensive software and the lowest prices among competitors.

TurboTax

TurboTax coupons include 40% off TurboTax Deluxe, 33% off TurboTax Premier, and 25% off TurboTax Home & Business. The free version of TurboTax covers basic tax situations, and it offers access to live chat, error-checking, and a guaranteed biggest refund. The paid versions have these same benefits, but they handle more complicated tax issues such as investments, mortgage interests, and business income.

H&R Block

You have until 3/31 to receive 30% off H%R Block Premium, H&R Block Deluxe, and H&R Block Basic. Each ascending tier of software—from Free to Premium—carries with it the same components of the version prior. For instance, H&R Block Premium has everything in Deluxe plus maximized business deductions, guidance for rental property income and priority support. H&R Block coupon codes will serve you well if you have tax complexities to deal with.

FreeTaxUSA

Nine million people have used FreeTaxUSA as an e-file provider. You have a choice between the Free Edition and the Deluxe Edition. Right now you can save 50% on the Deluxe Edition or choose a site-wide blanket coupon for 25% off. Though the Free Edition includes free federal and free e-file, it costs only $12.95 for state e-filing, which you can cut down to $9.70 with a FreeTaxUSA coupon.

TaxExtension.com

Need time? The IRS allows you to put off tax day for six additional months, ending Oct. 15. TaxExtension.com specializes in helping people extend their deadline and dealing with the IRS so you don’t have to. You can avoid penalties and rely on the website to send you updates of your extension for $29.95. Individuals and businesses can receive 20% off extensions through mid-April.

Remember—these deals might evolve as the deadline looms closer. Visit our tax deals for 2014 until April 15, or, if you choose to file for an extension, see if they change in the next six months.