How does TurboTax work?
TurboTax works like an interview—we ask you easy–to–answer questions about your life that affect your tax situation (i.e., Are you married? Do you have kids?) and fill in all the right tax forms behind the scenes. Your answers tell us which deductions and credits to look for, and what to ask next.
The result: You’ll be coached along the way as you do your taxes and get the help you need, when you need it. Meanwhile, we’ll find every deduction and credit that applies to you. We make sure you’ll keep every hard–earned dollar you deserve.
What do I need to get started?
You don’t really need anything but your email address to get started! Just answer a few simple questions and you’re on your way.
You don’t even need to have your W–2s or 1099s, we can import that information directly from more than a million participating employers and financial institutions.
Eventually, for more complex tax situations, you may need additional documents like, mortgage statements or other detailed financial information. But since we save your return as you go, you can finish anytime.
How do I know which product is right for me?
We have a product for your unique tax situation. You can select the right product for you from our Products page.
How does TurboTax know which questions to ask?
TurboTax starts by asking you simple questions about yourself. Then, based on your answers, we’ll help you find deductions and credits unique to your situation. Our team of CPAs keeps our products up-to-date with the latest tax laws, so we know exactly what to ask. Each question determines which deductions and credits apply to you, so that we can help to uncover every dollar you deserve. Your answers determine what tax breaks we’ll look for next.
For example, if you tell us you have children, we’ll look for deductions and credits such as the child tax care credit, earned income credit, and more.
What if I am a US nonresident living, studying, and/or working in the US?
This year, TurboTax has partnered with Sprintax.com to provide a secure, easy-to-use online service to help you file your 1040NR tax forms and get your taxes done right. Please visit Sprintax.com for more information.