Updated on Sunday, April 6, 2025: With the tax deadline fast approaching, TurboTax is offering exclusive discounts to make filing just a little bit more affordable. Here’s a roundup of the best deals that we could find, available here in April:

1. Extra 10% Off Federal Products

TurboTax is offering an additional 10% discount on federal tax products when purchased directly through Intuit. This discount applies to TurboTax’s federal products only and can be combined with current mid-season pricing. Note that this offer excludes state products and ends on April 15, 2025.

2. 50% Off QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle

Entrepreneurs and freelancers can take advantage of a 50% discount on the QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle for the first three months. This reduces the cost from $20/month to $10/month and is a valuable tool for tracking expenses and preparing for tax filing.

3. Free TurboTax for Military Members

Active-duty military members ranked E1 through E9 can file federal and state taxes for free using the TurboTax Freedom Edition. For those ranked higher, a discount is available instead. A 2024 military W-2 tax form is required to redeem the offer, ensuring that service members get access to affordable and efficient filing.

4. Discounts Through Financial Institutions

TurboTax frequently collaborates with financial institutions to offer exclusive discounts. Check your bank or credit union’s online portal for promotions listed under “deals” or “partnerships.”

5. Free Edition for Simple Returns

For taxpayers with straightforward tax situations, TurboTax’s Free Edition allows both federal and state filings at no cost. This option is ideal for simple Form 1040 returns and supports limited credits, such as:

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
• Child Tax Credit
• Student Loan Interest Deduction

However, this option only applies to about 37% of taxpayers, as it doesn’t support more complex scenarios, like business income, itemized deductions, or investments.

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TurboTax and Charles Schwab: A 20% Discount for Clients

Charles Schwab clients once again have access to an exclusive TurboTax discount this year, continuing their long-standing partnership. The 20% discount applies to several TurboTax products, catering to a range of tax filing needs:

1. TurboTax Deluxe

Perfect for those looking to maximize deductions, TurboTax Deluxe helps track and apply itemized expenses like:

• Mortgage interest
• Charitable donations
• Medical expenses

2. TurboTax Premier

For individuals with investments, rental income, or cryptocurrency transactions, TurboTax Premier simplifies complex filings. It’s a great choice for those managing diverse assets or income streams.

3. TurboTax Self-Employed

Designed for freelancers, contractors, and small business owners, this version helps track business expenses, including mileage and other deductions unique to self-employment.

4. TurboTax Live and Full Service

These options are tailored for taxpayers who want professional support. TurboTax Live provides on-demand expert help, while Full Service lets a tax professional handle the entire filing process.

How to Redeem the Discount

Charles Schwab clients can access the discount by using a dedicated link provided through the Schwab platform.

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Charles Schwab: History, Background, and Financial Resources

An Overview of Charles Schwab

Founded in 1971 by Charles R. Schwab, the company started as a small investment newsletter and grew into one of the largest financial institutions in the U.S. Schwab’s focus on empowering investors through low-cost, user-friendly investment solutions has made it a favorite among both individual and institutional investors.

Today, Charles Schwab offers a range of services, including brokerage accounts, retirement planning, wealth management, and tax-efficient investment strategies.

Schwab’s Mission and Approach

Schwab’s mission is centered on making investing accessible and affordable for everyone. By offering transparent pricing and a wide variety of investment options, Schwab has built a reputation for prioritizing client needs.

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Charles Schwab and Taxes: How They Help During Tax Season

Tax-Efficient Investing

Schwab emphasizes tax efficiency in its investment strategies. From tax-loss harvesting to managing tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s, Schwab helps clients minimize tax burdens while maximizing returns.

Financial and Tax Planning Tools

Schwab offers several tools to help clients stay on top of their taxes:

• Schwab Intelligent Portfolios: These automated portfolios are designed with tax efficiency in mind.
• Tax Resources: Schwab provides educational materials and calculators to help clients understand deductions, credits, and overall tax liability.

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Tips for Tax Season Success

Here are some strategies to make the most of tax season, whether you’re using TurboTax, working with Schwab, or both:

1. Stay Organized: Keep all necessary tax documents, such as W-2s and 1099s, in one place to streamline the filing process.
2. Use Tax-Efficient Accounts: Maximize contributions to IRAs, HSAs, and other tax-advantaged accounts to reduce taxable income.
3. Leverage Available Discounts: If you’re a Schwab client, take advantage of the 20% TurboTax discount to lower your filing costs.
4. Seek Expert Advice: For complex tax situations, consulting a professional can save time and money.

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Our Final Thoughts

TurboTax’s discounts and Charles Schwab’s client benefits make tax season more manageable. Whether you’re an individual filer with straightforward taxes or a business owner with more intricate needs, there are plenty of options to help you save money and file efficiently.

As always, staying informed and proactive is key to navigating tax season smoothly. By combining TurboTax’s user-friendly tools with Schwab’s financial expertise, you can feel confident about your tax preparation process this year.

Updated on Sunday, April 6, 2025: Tax season is here once again and if you’ll be using TurboTax, don’t worry, you won’t need to pay full price to file this year. Here’s a roundup of all of the TurboTax discounts available from now through the end of April:

1. Extra 10% Off Federal Products

TurboTax is offering an additional 10% discount on federal tax products when purchased directly through the Intuit website. This deal is available through April 15, 2025, and stacks with the current mid-season pricing. It’s worth noting that the discount applies only to federal products, not state filings, and cannot be combined with other offers.

2. TurboTax Freedom Edition for Military Members

Active-duty military personnel ranked E1 through E9 can file both federal and state taxes for free using the TurboTax Freedom Edition. For higher ranks, TurboTax offers an additional discount instead of free services. To qualify, users need to submit a 2024 military W-2 tax form.

3. Discounts Through Financial Institutions

TurboTax frequently partners with banks, credit unions and other organizations to provide exclusive discounts to customers. This includes Bank of America, AAA, Chase and Fidelity. Check your financial institution’s online portal for promotions under the “deals” or “partnerships” sections to see what’s available for you.

4. Free Edition for Simple Returns

TurboTax’s Free Edition is an excellent option for taxpayers with basic tax needs. It allows users to file both federal and state taxes at no cost, covering simple returns such as Form 1040 filings. The Free Edition also supports limited credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and Student Loan Interest Deduction.

However, only about 37% of taxpayers qualify for this option, as it doesn’t support more complex scenarios like business income, itemized deductions, or investment gains.

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No TurboTax Discount for AARP Members in 2025

In a noticeable shift, TurboTax is not offering a discount to AARP members in 2025. While this may disappoint long-time users who relied on this benefit, there are still alternative ways for AARP members to save during tax season.

One of the most significant resources is the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. This initiative provides free tax preparation and filing services to anyone, with a particular focus on individuals over 50 with low to moderate incomes. Unlike TurboTax’s Free Edition, Tax-Aide services don’t require AARP membership and are available nationwide.

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AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program: Free Assistance for Taxpayers

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free tax preparation service. Every year, from early February to mid-April, certified volunteers help millions of Americans complete and file their tax returns at no cost. Here’s how it works:

Who Can Use Tax-Aide?

While the program primarily serves taxpayers over 50, it’s open to anyone, regardless of age or AARP membership. The focus is on assisting those with straightforward tax situations, particularly individuals with low to moderate incomes.

Where Can You Find Tax-Aide?

Tax-Aide operates at nearly 3,500 locations across the U.S., including libraries, community centers, malls, and banks. Appointments can be booked online using the Site Locator tool, and some locations even offer walk-in services.

What You Need to Bring

To make the most of your appointment, you’ll need to bring the following:

• Government-issued photo ID for each taxpayer.
• Social Security cards or ITIN notices for everyone on the return.
• All relevant tax forms, including W-2s, 1099s, and any documents detailing income, expenses, or deductions.
• Checking or savings account information for direct deposit or withdrawal.
• Any correspondence from the IRS or state tax agencies.

Volunteers certified by the IRS will help you complete your return and file it electronically for free, ensuring faster refunds.

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Overview of AARP: History, Benefits, and Role in Financial Planning

What Is AARP?

Founded in 1958 by Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the interests of older Americans. With over 38 million members, AARP provides a range of services, including discounts, educational resources, and financial planning tools.

AARP’s Mission

AARP’s mission is to empower people aged 50 and older to live their best lives. The organization offers resources on health, travel, work, and finances, with a focus on affordability and accessibility.

How to Join AARP

Joining AARP is simple and open to anyone aged 50 or older. Membership costs $16 per year and includes access to exclusive discounts, newsletters, and programs like Tax-Aide. You can sign up online, by phone, or through the mail.

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AARP’s Role in Tax Season

AARP plays a crucial role in helping members navigate the complexities of tax season. Here’s how:

1. Free Tax Assistance Through Tax-Aide

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program simplifies tax filing for millions of Americans, particularly those who might not otherwise afford professional tax services.

2. Educational Resources

AARP provides extensive online resources, including articles, webinars, and calculators, to help members understand tax laws, deductions, and credits.

3. Advocacy for Taxpayer Rights

AARP advocates for policies that benefit older taxpayers, such as protecting Social Security benefits and ensuring access to tax credits.

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Pros and Cons of AARP Membership During Tax Season

Pros

1. Access to Free Tax Assistance: Tax-Aide is a game-changer for those who qualify.
2. Educational Resources: AARP simplifies complex tax topics for its members.
3. Advocacy: AARP fights for policies that benefit older Americans financially.

Cons

1. No TurboTax Discount in 2025: The absence of this benefit may frustrate members who relied on it.
2. Limited Scope of Tax-Aide: The program may not be suitable for individuals with highly complex tax situations.

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Tips for a Stress-Free Tax Season

Even without an AARP-specific TurboTax discount, there are plenty of ways to simplify your tax filing experience:

1. Plan Ahead: Gather all necessary documents well before your filing deadline.
2. Explore Free Options: Consider using Tax-Aide or TurboTax’s Free Edition if you qualify.
3. Leverage Technology: Use software that integrates with your financial institutions to streamline data entry.
4. Consult Professionals: If your situation is complex, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a tax professional.

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Our Final Thoughts

Tax season can be challenging, but with the right tools and resources, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. TurboTax continues to offer competitive discounts in 2025, even as AARP members miss out on a dedicated offer this year. Meanwhile, the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program remains an invaluable resource for millions of taxpayers, proving that effective tax assistance doesn’t always come with a price tag. Whether you choose TurboTax, Tax-Aide, or another method, staying informed and organized is key to a successful tax season.

Updated on Sunday, April 6, 2025: With Tax Day fast approaching, many of us will turn to TurboTax to file. The good news? You don’t have to pay full price. We’ve rounded up the best TurboTax 2025 deals to help you save before the April 15th deadline. Here are the top offers available now:

1. Extra 10% Off TurboTax Federal Products

Through April 15, 2025, TurboTax is offering an additional 10% off federal tax filing products purchased directly on the Intuit website. This discount stacks with current end-of-season pricing, just note that this offer does not apply to state filings and cannot be combined with any other promotions.

2. 50% Off QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle

For small business owners or freelancers, the QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle is available at 50% off for the first three months. This promotion reduces the cost from $20/month to $10/month and is an excellent option for managing income and expenses in preparation for tax season.

3. TurboTax Freedom Edition for Military Members

Active-duty military personnel ranked E1 through E9 can file both federal and state taxes for free with TurboTax Freedom Edition. For higher ranks, TurboTax offers a discounted rate. Eligible users must provide a W-2 from the 2024 fiscal year to access the offer.

4. Discounts Through Financial Institutions

TurboTax continues to partner with banks and credit unions to offer exclusive deals. These discounts are typically accessible through the “deals” or “partnerships” sections of financial institutions’ online portals. If you’re a member of a participating bank or credit union, check your account to see if you qualify for additional savings.

5. Free Edition for Simple Returns

For those with basic tax situations, TurboTax’s Free Edition allows users to file both federal and state taxes at no cost. It’s designed for straightforward returns, such as Form 1040 filings, and supports limited credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and Student Loan Interest Deduction. However, only 37% of taxpayers qualify for the Free Edition. It’s not suited for individuals with more complex tax scenarios, such as itemized deductions, business income, or investments.

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No TurboTax Discount for Vanguard Customers in 2025

In previous years, Vanguard account holders benefited from TurboTax discounts as part of a collaboration between the two companies. Unfortunately, for 2025, no such offer seems to be available (the previous offer link no longer applies a discount). Vanguard customers are encouraged to check their online accounts for potential personalized offers, but there is no general promotion this year.

This change is significant because many Vanguard users rely on tax filing software like TurboTax to handle the complexities of reporting investment income, dividends, and capital gains. While the lack of a discount may be disappointing, Vanguard customers can still take advantage of TurboTax’s other promotions or explore other tax software options.

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Vanguard: An Overview of the Investment Giant

History and Background

Vanguard was founded in 1975 by John C. Bogle, who aimed to create a client-focused investment company with low fees and straightforward solutions. Vanguard is best known for pioneering the concept of index funds, which offer a low-cost way to invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks or bonds.

One of the unique aspects of Vanguard is its ownership structure. Unlike most financial companies, Vanguard is owned by its funds, which are in turn owned by its investors. This structure eliminates conflicts of interest and allows Vanguard to prioritize long-term value for its clients.

Key Features of Vanguard

• Low Fees: Vanguard is synonymous with low-cost investing, offering some of the industry’s lowest expense ratios.
• Wide Range of Products: The company provides mutual funds, ETFs, IRAs, and 401(k) plans.
• Index Fund Expertise: Vanguard’s index funds and ETFs are among the most popular in the world, known for their reliability and cost efficiency.
• Retirement Planning: Vanguard offers extensive resources for retirement savings, including target-date funds and personalized advisory services.

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How Vanguard Relates to Tax Season

Investing with Vanguard comes with tax implications, particularly for those holding taxable brokerage accounts or tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Understanding these implications can help you plan better for tax season.

1. Taxable Accounts

• Capital Gains: Selling investments for a profit triggers capital gains taxes. Long-term gains (held for over a year) are taxed at a lower rate than short-term gains.
• Dividends: Vanguard funds often distribute dividends, which are taxable. Qualified dividends are taxed at a lower rate than ordinary income.

2. Tax-Advantaged Accounts

• IRAs and 401(k)s: Contributions to traditional IRAs and 401(k)s may be tax-deductible, while earnings grow tax-deferred. Withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income. Roth accounts, on the other hand, are funded with after-tax dollars, allowing for tax-free withdrawals later.

3. Tax-Loss Harvesting

Investors can use losses from poorly performing investments to offset gains elsewhere in their portfolio. This strategy, known as tax-loss harvesting, is a way to reduce taxable income.

4. Tax Forms Provided by Vanguard

Vanguard issues several key tax forms, including:

• 1099-DIV: Reports dividends earned.
• 1099-B: Details capital gains or losses from asset sales.
• 5498: Summarizes IRA contributions.

These forms are available online and can often be imported directly into TurboTax or other tax software for easy filing.

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How to Sign Up for Vanguard

Getting started with Vanguard is straightforward. You can open an account online by visiting their website, selecting the type of account you want (e.g., brokerage, IRA, or 401(k)), and completing the application process. You’ll need to provide personal information, such as your Social Security number, and fund the account with an initial deposit.

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Pros and Cons of Vanguard

Pros

1. Cost Efficiency: Vanguard’s low fees mean more of your money stays invested.
2. Diverse Options: A broad range of funds allows investors to tailor their portfolios to specific goals.
3. Reputation: Vanguard is widely regarded as a trusted name in investment management.
4. Tax Advantages: Its tax-advantaged accounts and low-turnover funds help minimize tax liabilities.

Cons

1. Limited Features for Active Traders: Vanguard is not ideal for frequent traders or those seeking advanced trading tools.
2. Interface: Some users find Vanguard’s platform less intuitive compared to competitors.
3. No TurboTax Discount in 2025: This change may frustrate investors accustomed to past benefits.

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Maximizing Tax Season Efficiency with Vanguard and TurboTax

Even without a dedicated TurboTax discount for Vanguard customers in 2025, there are still ways to streamline tax season:

1. Organize Tax Documents: Ensure all necessary forms, like 1099-DIVs and 1099-Bs, are ready before filing.
2. Use TurboTax Import Features: TurboTax allows users to directly import Vanguard tax data, reducing the risk of errors.
3. Consult Advisors: Vanguard’s financial advisors can help you optimize your portfolio for tax efficiency.
4. Stay Informed: Take advantage of Vanguard’s educational resources on tax-loss harvesting and other strategies.

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Our Final Thoughts

TurboTax’s 2025 discounts provide plenty of opportunities to save during tax season, even as Vanguard customers face the absence of a dedicated offer. By leveraging TurboTax’s integration capabilities and understanding the tax implications of Vanguard accounts, you can navigate tax season with confidence. While the loss of a Vanguard-specific discount may feel like a setback, the overall resources and support offered by both companies continue to make them valuable partners in managing your finances and investments.