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The 5 best apps for Tax Season
Alexander Reed
Published on October 10, 2023
Tax season is here again, bringing with it endless cups of coffee, finding receipts everywhere and suddenly getting really into numbers. It's a time that can be pretty overwhelming, whether you're a tax pro or just starting out. But thanks to technology, there are some great digital helpers out there to make this tax season a lot easier.
With the goal of keeping things stress-free and maybe even getting you a nice refund, we've gone on a digital hunt to find the top 5 tax apps out there. These apps are great for anyone, whether you're dealing with complicated international taxes or just need an easy way to file locally. Let's dive in and check out these apps that could be game-changers for your tax season.
Wise (formerly TransferWise)
Banking and payment apps
4.6
Wise
Starting off our countdown at number 5, we have Wise (formerly known as TransferWise). This isn't your typical tax app but rather a financial superhero in the realm of international transactions. Born out of frustration with hefty bank fees on overseas transfers, Wise has grown into a trusted platform for managing money across borders. What makes it a tax season gem? Its ability to handle multiple currencies with ease and transparency. For the digital nomads, freelancers and global businesses out there, Wise simplifies the headache of dealing with foreign income and expenses, ensuring you're not losing out when it's time to reconcile those global earnings with your local tax obligations.
QuickBooks Online
Business finance and accounting apps
3.9
QuickBooks
Sliding into number 4, QuickBooks takes the stage as the go-to software for small to medium-sized businesses around the globe. A product of Intuit, the same financial software giant behind TurboTax, QuickBooks has been simplifying accounting tasks since the early '80s. With its user-friendly interface, it automates tasks like invoicing, billing and reporting, making tax prep a breeze. What earns it a spot on this list is its versatility across different tax systems and currencies, making it indispensable for businesses with international dealings. Plus, its integration capabilities with various tax filing software mean you can streamline your financial management and tax preparation in one fell swoop.
Xero
Business finance and accounting apps
4.4
Xero
Marching in at number 3, Xero is a cloud-based accounting software that's been a game-changer for businesses worldwide. Since its inception in New Zealand in 2006, Xero has revolutionized the way small businesses manage their finances, offering real-time visibility of their financial position in a simple, smart and secure manner. With features tailored for managing invoices, bank reconciliation and financial reporting, Xero stands out for its ability to integrate with a multitude of tax systems and support multiple currencies. It's the digital accountant that not only keeps your books in pristine order but also makes tax time significantly less daunting.
TaxAct
Tax preparation and filing apps
3
TaxAct
At number 2, we've got TaxAct, your reliable sidekick in navigating the complex maze of tax laws. Established in the late '90s, TaxAct has carved out a niche for itself by providing a robust, affordable tax preparation tool that doesn't skimp on features. Ideal for both individuals and businesses, it guides users through the filing process with precision, ensuring you capitalize on every deduction and credit available. What makes TaxAct standout is its balance of comprehensiveness and value, making it a go-to for those looking to maximize returns without breaking the bank. Plus, its resources for handling foreign income and investments make it a solid pick for taxpayers with international ties.
TurboTax
Investment and portfolio management apps
4.4
TurboTax
Topping our list at number 1, TurboTax by Intuit is the cream of the crop when it comes to tax preparation software. Launched in the mid-'80s, TurboTax has become synonymous with stress-free tax filing, thanks to its intuitive interface and step-by-step guidance. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned tax filer, TurboTax adapts to your needs, ensuring you get every dollar you deserve. Its prowess in handling complex tax situations, including investments, rental properties and international income, paired with the option for on-demand professional assistance, makes it the undisputed champion for navigating tax season with confidence. TurboTax is more than just an app; it's a tax filing experience tailored to put you in the driver's seat of your financial future.
Surviving the Tax Season Tornado
Ah, tax season: the annual festival of stress where the confetti is made of receipts and the party favors are calculators and endless cups of coffee. This time of year can turn even the most Zen among us into frazzled bundles of nerves. Why, you ask? Well, it's the perfect storm of sifting through a year's worth of financial transactions, the pressure of meeting deadlines and the ever-looming fear of making a mistake that could summon the tax gods' wrath (also known as audits). Not to mention the juggling act of figuring out which deductions and credits you're eligible for – it's enough to make your head spin!
But fear not, dear taxpayer, for there are ways to tame the beast of tax season stress. First, organization is your best friend. Start early and keep those receipts, invoices and bank statements in order so you won't have to go on a treasure hunt later. Break the task down into smaller, manageable chunks – a little bit of tax work each week can prevent a last-minute scramble. And remember, there's no shame in seeking help. Whether it's consulting with a tax professional or using reliable software, getting expert advice can be a game-changer.
Speaking of help, mindfulness and meditation apps like Headspace have also found their place in the tax season toolkit. While not directly related to taxes, taking a few minutes each day to meditate can significantly reduce stress levels, clear your mind and improve focus – all crucial elements when tackling those tricky tax forms. So, breathe in, breathe out and remember: tax season is just a season and like all seasons, it too shall pass.
Conclusion
As we close out our journey through the top 5 tax apps, it's evident how much the right tech can change the game when it comes to tax season. No longer just a time of stress and endless paperwork, with these apps, it becomes a task that's not only doable but potentially rewarding. They help sort out your finances and make sure you're getting all the tax benefits you're entitled to. Whether you're traveling the world and working, running your own business or just trying to get a handle on your taxes, these apps are like a lifeline, offering clarity and control. The trick to beating tax season? Being prepared, staying informed and having these powerful tools in your arsenal.
My Personal recommendation
On a more personal note, while each app on our list has its own unique strengths, Xero holds a special place in my heart. As someone who appreciates the beauty of simplicity in design and efficiency in functionality, Xero’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive features make it not just an accounting tool, but a trusted companion through the ebb and flow of business life. Its real-time financial insights and seamless integration with tax systems have been a game-changer for me, allowing more time for what truly matters – growing the business and enjoying the journey. So, here's to less stress and more success this tax season, with a little help from our digital friends!
Alexander Reed
Verified Reviewer
Alexander Reed has always been drawn to cybersecurity and data and made his living out of writing about these topics. His favorite apps are Robinhood and Otter AI.
Writer for Best of Apps since October 10, 2023