Intuit TurboTax Deluxe 2006 is a tax software program that can take some of the sting out of tax time by taking some of the stress out of the preparation and filing process. We found the instructions and information to be clear and easy to understand. The program also didn't bog us down in technical jargon.

The user interface is well organized and easy to navigate, with three ways to complete a tax return. You can walk through an interview, which will gather information and select the appropriate forms for your tax situation; you can skip the interview and complete the forms on your own, in any order you choose; or you can use a combination of the two methods. TurboTax can also save you time by importing financial information from Quicken, QuickBooks, Microsoft Money or any program that can export TXF (Tax Exchange Format) files.

The new Deduction Maximizer Center is designed to ensure that you get everything that's coming to you. It can also help you determine fair market value for many of the items commonly donated to charity.

When you finish entering information, TurboTax will check your return for errors, discrepancies and missing information, and alert you to any problems.

The package includes extensive built-in help and tax information, to help you complete this year's federal and state tax returns, as well as start planning for the year ahead.

If you've never used tax software before and you're still on the fence about which product and version to buy, you can try out the online versions of TurboTax. The interface is virtually identical to the desktop versions, and there's no risk and no obligation. You aren't required to pay until you're ready to either print or e-file a return.

Although TurboTax doesn't have the market lead it once had, we still find Intuit TurboTax Deluxe 2006 to be one of the most user-friendly tax software programs available.


Pros: Easy to use, information is clear and well organized, package price includes a state tax software download
Cons: More expensive than some similar tax software packages, doesn't include free audit support