Is it best to use a CPA? - Page 2 - Truckers' Trucking Forum

Hometime · **^ Top** #11 01.16.2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lilbit

That's a good deal. Part of the reason mine is higher is the fees for direct deposit of my refunds. Takes no more than 10 business days that way.

I have so much software installed on my computer that I prefer to use the online version.

Sounds like you normally get a refund! I hope that will be the case for us this year.

I am looking at the online purchase option for Turbo Tax right now to see what I can get it for. The difference in the CPA and what danc694U is talking about is over $100. That's a pretty good savings.

danc694u · **^ Top** #12 01.16.2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lilbit

...snipped..

I have so much software installed on my computer that I prefer to use the online version.

I hear that. I've made fun of people for using a lot of HD space in the past. My laptop came with a 250 gig HD. I was wondering how in the world I would use that much, I'd never used more than 40 gig....ever.

I have 30 left on this one

And a 250 external that is almost full too. I think Vista breeds when it's shut down.

Lilbit · **^ Top** #13 01.16.2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hometime

Sounds like you normally get a refund! I hope that will be the case for us this year.

I am looking at the online purchase option for Turbo Tax right now to see what I can get it for. The difference in the CPA and what danc694U is talking about is over $100. That's a pretty good savings.

We have for the last several years because I haven't been able to work. I've tried a few times, but always end up in major pain again with my back or shoulder. Having kids helps too!

I'm working on some self-employment options because that way, I can adapt my work to suit my physical problems.

Lilbit · **^ Top** #14 01.16.2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by danc694u

I hear that. I've made fun of people for using a lot of HD space in the past. My laptop came with a 250 gig HD. I was wondering how in the world I would use that much, I'd never used more than 40 gig....ever.

I have 30 left on this one

And a 250 external that is almost full too. I think Vista breeds when it's shut down.

I don't have Vista on my desktop. Got one of the last ones with XP just before the change over.

I have a lot of graphics programs (corel and the entire Adobe Creative Suite 3 Master) and my kids have a couple games on my machine. My anti-virus stuff takes up some room too, and frequently updates. I also have the photos from my digital camera on here. I have some room left, just don't remember how much.

Hometime · **^ Top** #15 01.16.2009

Yep online version at $49.95 is the one that would work for me. So now just have to decide if I have the guts to try it on my own. With a CPA if I get audited do I have more protection that way?

I have used a CPA for several years due to a business we use to own. We sold that business and this was going to be our first year to get to file without using the CPA. Then hubby decided to throw trucking driving into the mix.

Guess that is why I am a little apprehensive because it has been a very long time since I set down at the old PC and filed the forms.

RickG · **^ Top** #16 01.17.2009

You don't necessarily need a`CPA . An Enrolled Agent may be adequate . CPA's and EA's are the only ones that can represent you in tax court . Turbo Tax and others claim they will represent you in an audit but not in court . The best time to seek a tax professional's advice is the beginning of the tax year so you will know how to take advantage of tax laws during the year .

ship71021 · **^ Top** #17 01.17.2009

I have a family member that's a cpa so I use them. I pay a little for nothing and couldn't see it any other way.

rubbergearsnextyear · **^ Top** #18 01.17.2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by danc694u

If possible, buy a copy online. It's much cheaper.

It will walk you through the process, pretty much.

You'll have to pay close attention when you get to the additional deductions area. In the "travel expenses" area It will ask you to insert a number from a dropdown list. Which can be editted a few windows later, to the correct amount. It will also ask if the job is listed as transportation. Which it is, so no biggy there.

The CB, GPS, fridge, etc...all have a nice neat place to be inserted

What number do you enter there? 52 x x amount of days away? Or do you take the 80% of that? What I'm trying to boil down to is, does it automatically calculate the 80% of whatever number you put in (along with the 2% rule)?

52x300=15,600*.80=12,480 Do I put the 15,600 figure in or the 12,480?

danc694u · **^ Top** #19 01.17.2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by rubbergearsnextyear

What number do you enter there? 52 x x amount of days away? Or do you take the 80% of that? What I'm trying to boil down to is, does it automatically calculate the 80% of whatever number you put in (along with the 2% rule)?

My copy provides a drop down list, with set amounts. Which I can edit, within the next 2 windows. The list max's out at $10k, so if you spend more time on the road. You'll need to edit the amount.

It calculates the allowance for you. Just enter the amount, click continue.

It will ask if you work in transportation. Hope that helps.

rubbergearsnextyear · **^ Top** #20 01.17.2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by danc694u

My copy provides a drop down list, with set amounts. Which I can edit, within the next 2 windows. The list max's out at $10k, so if you spend more time on the road. You'll need to edit the amount.

It calculates the allowance for you. Just enter the amount, click continue.

It will ask if you work in transportation. Hope that helps.

10-4 preciate ya'! I don't think mine had the dropdown box but it got to the question about travel expenses/transportation/subject to dot rules. Just had a box to type in the amount. I entered the 12480 figure and it knocked it down to 9 grand and some change there. I'm not real sure but with that figure I get a refund so either way I go I;m gettin a lil back lol.

Actually haven't got the w-2 yet, just plugged in some figures from my last statement. Should be close either way.

Thanks for the fast response!

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