1. Prepare the tax return on your own  - In doing this, you'll probably spend around $75 for a computer program, an hour installing the software and another 10 hours between figuring out how to use the darn thing and learning a small portion of the vast tax code. If you're like most people, you'll submit your return feeling somewhat unsatisfied. You'll have a gut feeling that you still could have gotten a much larger refund. You'll probably also hope that you didn't screw it up so much that the audit man will come calling.

 

2. Go to a "Tax Shop." - Considering that a US government undercover investigation last year that found over 93% of the returns the investigation had were wrong, this is a pretty risky choice. As one of my clients said "I paid $285 for a simple 1040 with itemized deductions. I had to tell this young kid where the numbers went of the form I was paying him to do. Then I found out he never even went to college. I had to go back two days later to get my return, only to find out they misspelled my name. If they couldn't even get the spelling of my name right I wondered what else could be wrong."

 

3. Go to a CPA, like Mellace & Associates, CPA. -  Come in to our relaxed professional atmosphere. Have some coffee and a snack. Almost all of my clients have their returns prepared right in front of them in less than an hour. You walk out with your return. We'll electronically file the return for you - free of charge. Your refund, if you're entitled to one, will be in your bank account within 7-13 Days. And your cost - ? Surprisingly, usually less than a "Tax Shop." You'll have the peace of mind knowing that a CPA prepared your return.