Tax season tips for safe online filing Video
Tax season tips for safe online filing Video Transcript
-Do you have the same bank account? Yes. -Justin Eckhouse, a CNET employee, is like 70% of Americans this year, filing his taxes electronically, and like 30% of that group, preparing his own return with the use of software. -I don't have to make an appointment. I can wait the last minute. I can do it at home in my pyjamas if I want. -The IRS says it's seen the e-filing percentage grow steadily year after year, and that it's now the norm and no longer the exception. -So, the 2 main benefits to filing electronically are: that you-- the software will save your information year to year; and that you're much more likely to get your return faster. -And when it comes time to choose tax preparation software, CNET's Jessica Dolcourt says there are 4 levels to choose from to fit your financial needs. Those 4 categories are often described as basic, deluxe, premium, and home office. -If you're new to filing online, here are some guidelines for keeping your private tax information safe. -First, when filing online, make sure your computer's antivirus software is up to date. Also, when using an online preparation program, make sure the site is secure and has a safety guarantee. And when you're finished, delete the cookies and the cache. Go to the tools tab on your browser, select "clear recent history", and then choose "cookies and cache" to delete. -I get to really understand the whole process, which is kind of important to me without having to research tax law, know all the details. -In San Francisco, I'm Kara Tsuboi, CNET.com for CBS News.
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