TurboTax Deluxe 2000 (PC)

The installation process is easy, and the online multimedia help starts right from the first screen. Though new users might be a bit intimidated by the wealth of options, navigation is intuitive enough to get practically anyone started. The basics are well designed and artfully navigated throughout--enter personal data, then type in or import financial information from Quicken or online accounts. Deductions, the great nightmare of years past, are easy to file and fiddle with as needed. In the end, all the forms needed are available for printing or electronic filing, and every step from preparation to filing is outlined in careful detail.

Those who want more than a robot servant can play out different tax strategy scenarios, look up tax documents and planning advice, or even maximize investments for tax benefits. One logistical drawback involving the state tax packages could stand improvement: users must purchase either TurboTax State 45 Multi-State or TurboTax State CA separately and then send proof of purchase to Intuit for a rebate. Though this seems somewhat old-fashioned, forewarned consumers can buy both at once to avoid disappointment, then get the rebate more quickly.

Given the advantages of flexibility, in-depth help, and ease of use, Quicken TurboTax Deluxe for Tax Year 2000 is an essential tool for beating the April 15 deadline headache-free. --Rob Lightner

Amazon.com Product Description
Get all of the features of Quicken TurboTax plus many more with Quicken TurboTax Deluxe for Windows. The Roth IRA Planner helps you plan for your future. It shows if you're eligible for the Roth IRA and if you can roll over funds from a traditional IRA, and helps you see the option that is best for you. It even shows how your IRA contributions can grow, and how much income you can expect when you retire. Improved videos simplify understanding--with better graphics and illustrations that are integrated into onscreen videos, they help make the complex tax laws easier to understand, so that you can make tax decisions more confidently. Instantly understand the impact that major life changes will have on your taxes--changes like a new home, new baby, or retirement--by using the New Life Events Planner. Access thousands of pages of money-saving tax guidance onscreen, including IRS publications, Money Magazine's Income Tax Handbook, and tax help from three of America's top financial advisors, on integrated video. Includes one free Turbotax State.