While filing taxes isn’t fun, at least it’s never been easier. Thanks to a bunch of apps now available for Apple’s iOS and Android, you can track your expenses, donations and even file your return using your smartphone. But not all tax apps are created equal. Just like every other app category, there are good ones and those that should never have seen the light of day. Plus, with increasing concern about identity theft and malware apps, it’s critical to know that the tax apps you’re using for your most sensitive information are ones that you can trust. I went through the choices and winnowed the list down to the most useful apps from reliable providers. For those with the simplest returns, you can file from your smart phone with TurboTax SnapTax (Free, Android Market and iTunes). First you answer a few questions to see if you qualify for filing using the app. It will only file a 1040EZ, so that means no dependents or real estate ownership; income only from W-2s, interest and unemployment; and income of less than $80,000 for single people or $100,000 combined for that are married. While the app is free, there is a $14.99 filing fee for state and federal taxes. If you’ve got tax questions, the best app for answers is H&R Block Tax Central (Free, Android Market and iTunes). It has common questions and answers broken down by categories like “Adjustments and Deductions,” “Income,” “Interest and Dividends,” among others; a glossary of tax terms; and news relating to law changes and what constitutes a tax audit red flag. There are helpful checklists for when forms are due and what forms you need to fill out your taxes. And once you’ve filed, you can use the app to check on the status of your
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