This software package which we reviewed last year – IS
BACK!
Again it shows up well in amateur accountant hands.
Installation is rapid from the disk - and available FREE on
download.
When it is opened by a new user, the first page again shows
paths into the program by: User interview, or direct address through past year's files.
It makes a desk top icon and self installs. The direct
entry to the 1040 form for taxpayer identification is like filling in the paper forms.
Saving of material entered is urged and easy to do.
Again it is easy to find the additional schedules directly,
or be lead into them from the interview form. It constantly suggests any special choices
that might be significant to the taxpayer.
For those who used the system in prior years, the
established prior dividend files can be re-entered with the new data. The prior year's
amounts are now zeros, but the nitty-gritty identity account numbers, company addresses,
and account numbers are automatically brought forward. I love THAT !
Among the new features is a page panel in the lower part
which holds applicable J. K. Lasser information on the work at hand.
One's confidence in what he is doing is enhanced by the
three colors used to critique what you enter; green for an appropriate entry, yellow for a
possible problem and red for Uh Uh, probably wrong, high risk jail bait stuff.
Auto Save is a great help and the Tax Tips suggest possible
other tax saving ways.
This year there is included listings of professionals and
their telephone numbers who are available – at a stated cost per minute – for
consultation directly or by e-mail. These lie in the “KEEN ADVISOR” section.
I think the 10 key calculator which was included in last
year's program free is a hidden charge of $ 9.95 this year. I will do without it.
As before, individual state returns should be ordered and
purchased by telephone / credit card. These fill themselves in automatically from the
Federal program. They will ship during January 2004.
For those who need partial year resident forms for
Arkansas, the other state of residence information will be compatible.
Be sure and BUY the DELUXE edition for $9.99 if the trial
free download works well for you. If you want the bargain of Deluxe AND your state - THE
ULTIMATE BUNDLE - program then the cost will be $19.95. Only Iowa residents pay state tax
on the program disks. The Deluxe includes one free federal e-file. I am not sure if the
problems Arkansas has had (?) with their computers / programs will prevent or permit state
filing by e-mail. In 2002 it was NOT POSSIBLE.
United States Mail address is: 2nd Story Software, 5925 Dry
Creek Lane NE, Cedar Rapids,IA ,52402
NOTE: These programmers have evolved from the Parsons
Technology group and began operations in 1995. This is the sixth annual release of their
work. |