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As 2022's tax deadline approaches, choosing the right tax software can help you get your taxes done quickly and accurately.

TurboTax is a good fit if you're looking for access to live expert assistance and an easy-to-follow interface and don't mind paying to make your experience better.

Below, CNBC Select breaks down TurboTax's tax software and services to help you decide if it's the right service to help you do your taxes this year.

Costs may vary depending on the plan selected - see breakdown by plan in the description below

For simple tax returns only. Not all taxpayers qualify. See if you qualify.

Terms apply, see below for our methodology.

Cost breakdown by plan:

*Click here for TurboTax offer details and disclosures

**A simple tax return is Form 1040 only.

Whether or not TurboTax is the right fit for you largely depends on your budget and service needs. Here are the pros and cons of TurboTax's services overall:

There are several advantages to choosing one of TurboTax's tax filing software, from live support to simple uploading interfaces. Here's what you should know if you're considering using a TurboTax product for your taxes in 2023.

TurboTax uses a question-and-answer format to collect all the important information it needs. It's intuitive and simple, guiding you through the process in a way that's easy to follow.

If you're feeling uncertain about doing your taxes, TurboTax's live support features can help you make sure you're on the right track. There are two levels of assistance: Live Assisted and Full Service.

For Live Assisted programs, you'll have access to an expert and the option for a tax expert to review your return before you file it. With TurboTax Live Assisted Basic, these features are free for those with simple tax returns, if your taxes are filed by March 31. However, if you need to itemize deductions or if you earned freelance income you'll need to select a paid package to make sure you get the support you need. These options start at $129, and get more expensive depending on the level of service you want.

For TurboTax's Full Service products, you'll get matched with a tax expert who will handle the entire process once you upload your documents. However, these packages start at $209 for simple tax returns and go up to $399 for self-employed taxpayers.

If you've received your W-2 or other tax forms digitally, you won't need to worry about manually entering your information. TurboTax makes it simple to upload your documents to their site. Not only does that reduce the amount of time it takes to do your taxes, but also can help to eliminate potential human error and typos.

TurboTax also holds a record of those documents for reference throughout the year, and can upload your previous year's tax returns if you use the service again next year.

When you use TurboTax, you'll receive several guarantees that your taxes are done right and you're getting the maximum refund possible. Here are the guarantees TurboTax offers:

TurboTax does have its downsides. Here's what you should know before starting your taxes with TurboTax.

TurboTax has free versions available for those with simple returns. For everyone else like those who have sold investments, earned freelance income, or have rental property income TurboTax costs money.

For most plans, the price you see listed for federal returns doesn't include the state tax return you may need to file.

Cost: Free, if you qualify

If you have a simple tax return, meaning that you just have W-2 income to report and are taking standard deductions, TurboTax's free version could be the right fit for you. The free version includes free federal and state filing.

Those with simple tax returns can also file for free using TurboTax's Live Assisted Basic, but only if you file by March 31.

Here are the situations covered by TurboTax's free versions:

If you have any of the following, TurboTax's free versions might not be an option:

In these situations, you may need to choose a paid TurboTax plan.

Cost: $59, with state taxes an additional $59 each

TurboTax Deluxe is the step up from the free edition, with the ability to process different types of tax documents. It's a good fit for those who need to itemize their deductions.

Here are the additional situations covered in the Deluxe version:

Cost: $89, with state taxes an additional $59 each

TurboTax Premier includes all of the things in TurboTax Deluxe, but can also cover additional tax situations including:

Cost: $119, with state taxes an additional $59 each

For freelancers, contractors and self-employed people, TurboTax requires this package to file. This version is for you if you have any of the following types of income or expenses:

This package also includes everything in TurboTax Premier, so those independent contractors who own a home or sold investments can also include that on their taxes without paying for another version of TurboTax.

Cost: $0, with state taxes included if you qualify and file before March 31, 2023

TurboTax Live Assisted Basic includes all of the things found in TurboTax Free and works for the same simple tax situations, including those with W-2 income and a few other tax forms to report.

But this version stands out with its extra support. TurboTax Live Assisted Basic includes the added help of unlimited expert assistance and a final review by a tax expert.

It's worth noting that TurboTax Live Assisted Basic has the same limitations as TurboTax free those with investment income, freelance or gig work income, or who need to itemize deductions will need to look at the more expensive versions of this option.

Generally, this product is $89. However, it's possible to get it for free if you file by March 31.

Cost: $129, with state taxes an additional $64 each

If you have more tax forms and more situations and want live, expert advice and assistance, TurboTax Live Assisted Deluxe might be the right move for you, including:

Notably, this software won't cover the following situations:

Like TurboTax Live Assisted Basic, this software also offers a final review from a tax expert. For those with more complicated tax situations, you'll need to consider TurboTax Live Assisted Premier or TurboTax Live Assisted Self-Employed.

Cost: $179, with state taxes an additional $64 each

TurboTax Live Premier covers the same situations as TurboTax Live Assisted Basic and TurboTax Live Assisted Deluxe, while also including :

Like the other Live Assisted products, TurboTax Live Assisted Premier hooks you up with expert help and assistance while you work through the program, and it also has a tax expert review everything before filing.

Cost: $209, with state taxes an additional $64 each

Independent contractors or freelancers who want some help with their taxes have to pay more than $200 to get assistance from TurboTax, not including the cost of state taxes.

TurboTax Live Assisted Self-Employed includes the situations found in TurboTax Live Assisted Premier, and offers assistance from an expert throughout the process as well as a final review. You know you need this package if your taxes include:

Cost: $209, with state taxes an additional $54 each

If you want someone else to do your taxes, TurboTax Live Full Service Basic could help you get your taxes done, and get year-round tax advice. The basic service will only work for those with simple taxes, like W-2 income, earned income and child tax credits, and student loan interest. All other situations will require you to upgrade.

When you start this program, you'll be assigned a dedicated tax expert and then meet them on a welcome call. From there, you'll upload your documents, and the expert will take care of the rest.

Cost: $259, with state taxes an additional $64 each

Like TurboTax Live Full Service Basic, this program can help you get your taxes done by simply uploading your documents. It also provides one-on-one tax advice throughout the year, and tax prep services by an expert.

This service includes the same situations as those included in TurboTax Live Assisted Deluxe, including:

Similar to the other Deluxe options, this version won't cover complicated tax situations such as self-employment, contractor or investment income.

Cost: $369, with state taxes an additional $64 each

If you earn rental income or have crypto transactions and want full-service tax filing, this is the right package for you. But, at over $360, it's one of the more expensive packages that TurboTax offers, and state taxes will add even more to that price tag.

These situations are covered by TurboTax Live Full Service Premier:

However, those who have freelance or contractor income still won't be covered by this package.

Cost: $399, with state taxes an additional $64 each

Those with self-employment or contractor income who want their taxes done with full service will pay almost $400 for this service. And state taxes will bring an additional charge.

For those in this situation, having a live expert could be an advantage. And, the year-round tax advice may be helpful to those who need to work on taxes quarterly.

TurboTax stacks up well against its competition but is also a bit more expensive. Here's what you need to know about how Turbotax compares to other tax software products on the market.

The biggest difference between H&R Block and TurboTax is the price in many instances, H&R Block is the cheaper option. Both H&R Block and TurboTax allow you to use apps on your phone or tablet to file taxes. Both also offer a free version to those who have a simple tax situation.

Costs may vary depending on the plan selected

Yes (for simple returns only)

Terms apply, see below for our methodology.

Here's where TurboTax has an edge over H&R Block:

Here's what you need to know before going with TurboTax over H&R Block:

TaxSlayer and TurboTax are close competitors, but as with H&R Block, the main difference is in the pricing. Both offer free versions, though TurboTax's free system is more robust and offers more credits. TaxSlayer and TurboTax also both offer free filing for military members.

Costs may vary depending on the plan selected

Terms apply, see below for our methodology.

Here's how TurboTax stands out over TaxSlayer:

Here's where TaxSlayer stands out:

2023 taxes are due April 18, 2023. If your taxes won't be done by this date, you'll need to file an extension with the IRS. However, the agency has offered an automatic extension until May 15 to qualifying storm victims in Alabama, California and Georgia.

To get the biggest possible tax refund, do the following:

You get what you pay for with TurboTax while the company offers an easy-to-use experience and simple tools, it can be expensive for those who want (or need) to use the more advanced versions. Still, the convenience TurboTax provides and the stress it can take out of tax season make it worthy of serious consideration when you're ready to file.

Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staffs alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party.

Link:
TurboTax's software is easy and well-designed but could be expensive for complex tax situations - CNBC

A federal lawsuit accuses automakers Kia and Hyundai of failing to install industry-standard anti-theft technology, resulting in thousands of thefts of vehicles in St. Louis

By

JIM SALTER Associated Press

March 27, 2023, 3:55 PM ET

3 min read

ST. LOUIS -- A federal lawsuit filed Monday by the city of St. Louis accuses automakers Kia and Hyundai of failing to install industry-standard anti-theft technology, resulting in thousands of vehicle thefts in the Missouri city.

The lawsuit seeks damages in excess of $75,000 plus punitive damages. St. Louis joins several other cities that have filed similar lawsuits, including Cleveland, Milwaukee, San Diego, Columbus, Ohio, and Seattle.

Kias and Hyundais have been targeted since a TikTok social media challenge put a spotlight on the vehicles lack of an immobilizer, showing viewers how to hot-wire cars with a USB cord and a screwdriver. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the thefts have resulted in at least 14 crashes and eight fatalities across the U.S.

"Defendants careless disregard for the safety of the public has created a public nuisance in the City of St. Louis, resulting in an explosion of auto-related crime that is injuring citizens, taxing St. Louiss resources, and jeopardizing the public health, safety, and peace of all who live, work, and visit St. Louis," the lawsuit states.

Kia said in a statement that the lawsuits by St. Louis and other cities are without merit.

Kia has been and continues to be willing to work cooperatively with law enforcement agencies in St. Louis to combat car theft and the role social media has played in encouraging it, the company said.

Hyundai Motor America is committed to ensuring the quality and integrity of our products, the company said in a statement.

St. Louis police have received more than 4,500 reports of thefts of Kia and Hyundai vehicles over the past 10 months, and three-fifths of all vehicle thefts in that span have involved Kias or Hyundais, the city said.

The lawsuit cited several incidents involving stolen Kias and Hyundais. In August, occupants of a stolen Kia Optima and a stolen Hyundai Sonata were involved in a shootout near downtown in which a 17-year-old was shot. In September, a bicyclist was struck and killed by a speeding Kia that had been stolen.

Last month, both automakers rolled out software updates aimed at stemming the raft of thefts. The updates are free for millions of vehicles that are missing a key anti-theft device. The software updates the theft alarm software logic to extend the length of the alarm sound from 30 seconds to one minute and requires the key to be in the ignition switch to turn the vehicle on.

About 3.8 million Hyundais and 4.5 million Kias are eligible for the software update, the NHTSA said.

In addition to the software update, Kia said it is shipping more than 27,000 free steering wheel locks to over 140 law enforcement agencies, including nearly 1,500 to police in the St. Louis area, and we will continue to provide additional free locks as needed.

Hyundai said engine immobilizers became standard on all vehicles in November 2021. The company said it also provides free steering wheel locks to law enforcement agencies to distribute to those who own or lease affected models, and reimburses customers who bought steering wheel locks.

Read this article:
St. Louis sues Kia, Hyundai over rash of car thefts - ABC News

Free software for news publishers to generate reader contributions and solicit donations is being made available to news publishers worldwide.

News Revenue Hub, the San Diego-based nonprofit helping U.S. local newsrooms with tech infrastructure and consulting services, has launched RevEngine a self-service donation management platform tailored specifically for newsrooms.

The free version of RevEngine is now available to all global newsrooms, regardless of nonprofit or for-profit status, and consists of out-of-the-box page templates, customizable branding and appeal language, mobile payment options, and a portal for contributors to manage payments. Newsrooms can sign up for the free software and begin collecting payments immediately.

Founded in 2016 by Mary Walter-Brown and Tristan Loper, News Revenue Hub has helped more than 70 U.S. local, regional, and national organizations crowdfund over $80 million. Newsrooms helped include Grist, Report for America, Radio Ambulante, Nevada Independent, InsideClimate News, The Marshall Project and Politifact. The Hub is now in the process of transitioning its existing newsroom partners to the new platform.

Walter-Brown says, We saw an opportunity to create a turnkey tool for any newsroom to solicit donations from their community especially during times of crisis, when people value them most.

RevEngine has the potential to change the path of sustainability for newsrooms around the world with a business model that prioritizes informing communities without walling off reporting that can improve lives.

114 participating publishers tested the RevEngine platform during the NewsMatch end-of-2022 fundraising campaign. OpenCampus, one of the participating publishers, raised more than $30,600 the amount they needed to receive matching funds through RevEngine.

When a reader donates to you, its about more than just giving money. Its like theyre investing in you and they feel a greater connection to your work.

The Hub received funding from Google and the Knight Foundation to develop RevEngine, with additional paid tiers set to roll out later this year, which will include email marketing automation, Slack notifications, advanced analytics and more.

Continue reading here:
News Revenue Hub offers free donation software for newsrooms ... - What's New in Publishing

Do you own a Kia or Hyundai between the years 2011-2021?

If so, we may have a steering wheel lock for you to prevent motor vehicle theft!

Please read below:

Lower Moreland Police Department, in conjunction with Kia and Hyundai Motor Companies, will be distributingFREE steering wheel locks for Hyundai/Kia vehicle owners; with a vehiclebetween the years of 2011 - 2021.If your vehicle has a key fob and/or push-to-start feature, then your vehicle does not apply for this handout.

To pick up your free steering wheel lock, please visit Lower Moreland Police Department at 640 Red Lion Rd, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006.You must present your current vehicle registration and valid state issued ID to prove you are a Lower Moreland resident.

ONEwheel lock per vehicle. This will be a first come first served basis.

Heres some information directly from Hyundai Motors:

Background:

Certain MY Hyundai vehicles are reportedly being stolen at a higher rate than other vehicles due to a coordinated effort on social media. Criminals are targeting Hyundai vehicles without engine immobilizers.There is no quality issue or defect with these vehicles, and they all meet or exceed Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. On certain vehicles, this technology did not come standard.

Hyundai made engine immobilizers standard in all-new Hyundai vehicles at every trim level produced after November 1, 2021. Hyundai has announced three forms of assistance for customers with certain earlier model year vehicles without an immobilizer that thieves most target.

Media Statement (Updated 2/14/2023):

Hyundai Motor America has introduced a free anti-theft software upgrade to prevent the vehicles from starting during a method of theft popularized on TikTok and other social media channels. The software upgrade will modify certain vehicle control modules on Hyundai vehicles equipped with standard turn-key-to-start ignition systems. As a result, locking the doors with the key fob will set the factory alarm and activate an ignition kill feature so the vehicles cannot be started when subjected to the popularized theft mode.

This software upgrade launched as a service campaign for almost 4 million vehicles with the upgrade rolling out first to more than 1 million model year 2017-2020 Elantra, 2015-2019 Sonata and 2020-2021 Venue vehicles. The software upgrade is scheduled to be available for the remaining eligible affected vehicles by June 2023. Hyundai is notifying customers about the anti-theft service campaign through multiple points of contact (e.g., mail, email, outbound phone contact and a dedicated website) with instructions to bring their vehicle to the nearest Hyundai dealership to have the free software installed.

More information is available at http://www.hyundaiantitheft.com, where customers can input their vehicles Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to find out when it is eligible for the software upgrade.

Ways to stay updated on Hyundai Vehicles:

Excerpt from:
FREE WHEEL LOCKS FOR LOWER MORELAND RESIDENTS ... - Montgomery County

Progress, the trusted provider of application development and infrastructure software, has announced a free online training and certification program for Progress OpenEdge, the flagship application development platform used by more than 100,000 enterprises across the globe to simplify the delivery of mission-critical business applications.

With this program, Progress will help developers build the skills they need for successful careers and make it easier for customers to maximise the value of their OpenEdge investment, the company states.

The surging digital economy is bringing an insatiable demand for software developers to build applications that will power our future. Around 40 million technical jobs go unfulfilled due to a lack of skilled talent, and this number is expected to rise to 85.2 million by 2030.

To help combat the skills gap while inspiring professionals to take advantage of in-demand career paths and build their own applications, Progress has launched a free online training and certification learning path that developers can complete online at their own pace.

John Ainsworth, Executive Vice President, General Manager, Application and Data Platform, Progress, comments,"Throughout the pandemic, we saw the IT skills gap become wider and more prominent due to enterprises heightened reliance on technology. This gap not only impacts the people looking for meaningful careers but the companies seeking qualified professionals.

"For over 40 years, Progress has enabled developers to build their own applications and turn their ideas into business reality. Our training and certification program will help expand the IT talent pool and allow future developers and entrepreneurs to see how quickly they can create applications that will have an impact."

OpenEdge is a platform for developing enterprise applications needing high-performance, high availability and flexible deployment options for extensibility, scalability, security and reliability. Developers around the world are using the OpenEdge application development platform to build innovative business applications that are the backbone of healthcare, financial services, manufacturing and other industries.

"If you just want to fiddle around with code, choose Java or Python. For a business application, you build it in OpenEdge," says Michiel Herpers, MES Engineer at CGI.

After eight self-paced courses and a final certification exam, which should take approximately three days to complete, developers will be able to build enterprise applications using OpenEdge 12 and receive a certificate to share with their professional networks and potential employers. No previous knowledge of coding is required.

By passing the assessment exams, developers will also earn badges in the Progress Community. The Progress OpenEdge Community is a community for on-demand information to ensure the success of projects. OpenEdge developers can access a knowledge base, user forums and code samples and connect with other new and seasoned OpenEdge users.

As the trusted provider of the best products to develop, deploy and manage high-impact applications, Progress is committed to enabling customers to develop the applications and experiences they need, deploy where and how they want and manage it all safely and securely.

Hundreds of thousands of enterprises, including 1,700 software companies and 3.5 million developers, depend on Progress to achieve their goals with confidence.

Read more:
Progress launches free online training for application developers - IT Brief Australia