|
> Meanwhile for the US, I need to fill in 2555, 1040, and other forms. These aren't "5 minutes", they're slow, and more importantly error-prone, as they get you to add up different numbers rather than just asking for the information needed. For the many forms, yes of course it takes longer. However, from the W2 to the form, if you are familiar with both, it is many steps to be sure, but the process itself doesn't take long. I don't mean to hold up the 1040 as some shining example of how to write a form. Merely, the steps look involved, but usually boil down to several of the same number in multiple boxes, and a couple additions/subtractions. If you do it purely by hand, there is a high chance for clerical error, yes, with automation as simple as a calculator, it's much simpler. You usually get the 1040 as part of the "preview" of the tax prep software. When you compare the actual steps involved in the 1040 vs the overly long, overcomplicated process in the tax software, it's obvious that there is a large amount of fluff involved. Sure, there are some credits it might remember that you might not, but that's about the only reason I would think tax prep software is better here... however this could be accomplished by something as simple as a checklist provided by the govt...and if you are paranoid you could employ a lawyer to double check that every option has been explored (how do you know the tax prep software know every credit from this current year? You don't, so, what exactly are you paying for?) |