Are you a do it yourself type who prefers to save some money and file your own taxes?  As long as you are just doing a simple return, with little paperwork there is no reason why this is not possible.  However, if you are wanting to do it yourself then you are looking to save some money.

While places like H & R Block are great and offer wonderful service, you have to sit in a very long line, and wait forever and pay almost $100 just in the preparation fees.  That is a lot of money for some people.  In all fairness they do run specials at times, but those usually are only $25 off their fees, which still leaves you paying $75 just in filing fees. 

There are several ways in which it is possible to save money and do it yourself.  First is using Tax ACT their software is 100% free, and even offers a free federal e-file.  I have used this for several years with very happy results.  I have even done a self- employed filing with it, with no problems.  I was even able to e-file for free and save some good money there.  This software is very simple to use, you can either download the program to run from your computer, or just use the software from the internet, the choice is yours. 

TurboTax is another program that is very similar to Tax ACT, however TurboTax is not free, it costs approximately $20 for the very basic package.  TurboTax is available to be purchased in stores, while Tax ACT cannot.  My parents use TurboTax, and were very happy with it.  They were doing some more complex filings than I have attempted so far, which justifies the price difference for them. 

TurboTax does not give you a free e-file, but does have an e-file ability, so figure this into the costs when deciding which software you want to personally use.  I would recommend checking out both, remember Tax ACT is free, and TurboTax allows you to prepare your return online, and pay before you file so you can try out their software.  This will enable you to try both programs free to see which one better fits your needs.  

Get ready now, the IRS starts accepting electronic filings starting on January 12, 2007 according to the IRS website, so you have some time to decide which you like best.  Remember, for quickest refund to choose direct deposit.  This enables you to get your money faster than having to wait on a paper check and wait for the check to clear.