Here's what I do each year... you might think it's smart, dumb, or indifferent, I don't really care - I've always done it this way ever since I wasn't able to do the 1040-EZ (so, basically since I was over 18). I fill out the information on Turbotax, TaxAct, HRBlock, etc... whatever software there is out there. It's all free to download on the net right from the company websites. After filling out all the information and answering the questions, I figure out which program gives me the highest return - and that's the one I pay to file with (which I deduct from the return). I think last year I used a program that was $60 to file, but netted me an extra $100 in a return over the $40 program, so it was worth the $20 extra to put $100 ($80 net) in my pocket. Each program tells you what your return is prior to filing and you only PAY the company once you file, so it's really easy to compare what program you're better using. What I don't get is people that go to professional tax preparers, when (at least from my experience) all they do is ask you the same questions and click the same buttons you would've if you would've been in your underwear at home - and they charge you for it. Considering that being a tax consultant is a low-wage seasonal position at many companies - should tell you something about the level of expertise needed to file your taxes. That's not to confuse these people with tax attorneys or CPAs, but these are the types of people you Mr. John Q Public is going to see at your local "professional tax preparer".