Updated on Sunday, April 6, 2025: It’s that time of the year again… it’s tax season. And as always, we’re tracking the latest discounts on TurboTax to help you ease some of that financial pressure. Here are the current offers available through April 15th, including exclusive deals and tailored benefits for various groups (including those for SDCCU members):

1. Extra 10% Off TurboTax Online Versions

TurboTax is offering an additional 10% discount on its Online versions when purchased directly through Intuit by April 15, 2025. This discount applies exclusively to federal tax products, not state filings. The savings stack on top of current end-of-season pricing, just note that this offer cannot be combined with other promotions..

2. 50% Off QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle

Entrepreneurs can benefit from a significant discount on the QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle. This offer reduces the monthly cost from $20 to $10 for the first three months, helping self-employed individuals manage their finances and tax preparation with ease.

3. TurboTax Freedom Edition for Military Members

Active-duty military personnel ranked E1 through E9 can file their taxes for free using the TurboTax Freedom Edition. Those ranked higher can still access a discounted version. A military W2 form from fiscal year 2024 is required to activate the discount. This initiative supports service members by offering cost-effective tax filing solutions.

4. Partner Discounts Through Financial Institutions

TurboTax collaborates with a number of banks and credit unions across the country to provide exclusive member discounts. That includes major partners such as Bank of America, AAA, Fidelity Investments, LMCU, OceanFirst, and Coinbase. Check your institution’s online portal under “deals” or “partnerships” to see if any offers apply to you.

5. TurboTax Free Edition for Simple Returns

If your tax situation is straightforward, TurboTax’s Free Edition is an excellent option. This version allows you to file both federal and state taxes at no cost, provided you qualify. It supports basic returns like Form 1040 and limited credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and Student Loan Interest Deduction. However, only around 37% of taxpayers meet the criteria, as this edition does not accommodate complex situations like business ownership, itemized deductions, or investments.

TurboTax and San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU) Partnership

For years, San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU) has partnered with TurboTax to offer its members exclusive tax filing benefits. For the 2025 tax season, SDCCU members can access a 20% discount on TurboTax federal products. The offer applies solely to federal filings and excludes state filings. Members can find the link to the discounted TurboTax software directly through their online SDCCU accounts.

To redeem this discount, simply log into your SDCCU account, navigate to the Member Perks page, and follow the link to TurboTax. Terms and conditions may apply, and the offer cannot be combined with other promotions. For those who prefer in-person assistance, SDCCU members also receive $25 off H&R Block’s in-office tax preparation services.

About San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU)

Background and History

Founded in 1938, San Diego County Credit Union began as a small institution serving local county employees. Over the decades, it has grown into one of California’s largest credit unions, serving over 400,000 members. Despite its expansion, SDCCU remains a not-for-profit organization, which means its profits are reinvested into member benefits like lower loan rates, higher savings yields, and reduced fees.

SDCCU offers a wide range of financial products and services, including savings and checking accounts, loans, mortgages, credit cards, and investment services. Its commitment to innovation and member satisfaction has earned it numerous awards and accolades over the years.

Membership and Eligibility

Membership is open to anyone who lives or works in San Diego, Riverside, or Orange counties. Joining SDCCU is straightforward. You can apply online or visit a local branch. A small initial deposit of $1 into a savings account is required to establish membership.

Services and Benefits

SDCCU provides various services that can simplify tax season and overall financial management:

1. Direct Deposit: Members can set up direct deposit to receive their tax refunds quickly and securely. SDCCU’s ABA Routing Number is 322281617. Be sure to include your account suffix at the end of your account number when setting this up.
2. Online Banking: The Internet Branch platform allows members to view account details, access tax documents, and track transactions. Your account number is easily accessible through the online banking portal for direct deposit purposes.
3. Tax Documents: Tax forms such as 1099s and 1098s are available through the online Tax Center by January 31, 2025. These forms can also be mailed to members upon request.
4. Member Perks: Beyond TurboTax discounts, SDCCU offers other financial benefits and tools designed to help members achieve their financial goals.

Tips for Simplifying Tax Season

Filing taxes can be daunting, but a few proactive steps can make the process smoother:

1. Stay Up-to-Date on Tax Changes

Tax codes evolve regularly, and staying informed can help you maximize deductions, credits, and refunds. The IRS website (irs.gov) is a reliable source for updates.

2. Choose the Right Filing Status

Selecting the correct tax filing status is essential. Options include single, head of household, married filing jointly, married filing separately, and qualified widow or widower. Your status impacts your standard deduction and income tax bracket, directly affecting your tax liability.

3. DIY Filing

For those with straightforward tax situations, consider filing online to save on preparation costs. If eligible, you can have your refund deposited directly into your SDCCU account, making the process even more convenient.

4. Leverage Tax Credits

Tax credits reduce your tax liability dollar-for-dollar, unlike deductions that only reduce taxable income. Common credits include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit. While these can be harder to qualify for, they offer significant savings.

5. File Early

Federal tax returns are due on April 15, 2025. Filing early ensures you receive your refund sooner and reduces the risk of missing deadlines. Organizing documents ahead of time can prevent last-minute scrambling.

6. Plan for Your Refund

If you expect a refund, consider contributing it to an IRA or other retirement account. Contributions are often tax-deductible, providing future financial benefits.

Benefits and Drawbacks of SDCCU

Benefits

• Lower Fees: As a not-for-profit organization, SDCCU often charges lower fees compared to traditional banks.
• Higher Savings Rates: Members typically enjoy higher yields on savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs).
• Community Focus: SDCCU actively supports local initiatives and charities, reflecting its commitment to the communities it serves.
• Convenient Access: With multiple branches, online banking, and a robust mobile app, SDCCU makes managing finances easy.

Drawbacks

• Membership Restrictions: Eligibility is limited to residents or workers in select counties, which may exclude some potential members.
• Branch Availability: While SDCCU has numerous branches in Southern California, its reach is geographically limited compared to national banks.

Financial Planning for Tax Season

SDCCU’s tools and resources can help you navigate tax season with confidence. Whether you’re filing independently with TurboTax or seeking professional assistance, the credit union’s discounts and direct deposit options streamline the process. For additional support, members can access educational resources and consult with SDCCU’s financial advisors to optimize their tax strategies and overall financial health.

Updated on Sunday, April 6, 2025: For those of you finally getting around to filing your taxes, here is a comprehensive list of TurboTax’s 2025 discounts to help you save before the April 15th deadline:

1) Extra 10% Off TurboTax Online Versions
TurboTax is offering an additional 10% discount with instant coupon on its federal products when purchased directly through Intuit. This discount applies on top of current end-of-season pricing. Just keep in mind that this offer is exclusive to federal products and does not include any additional state filing fees. Valid through April 15, 2025, and cannot be combined with other TurboTax offers.

2) 50% Off QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle
For self-employed individuals, the QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle is available at a 50% discount for the first three months. This reduces the cost from $20 per month to $10 per month, providing a cost-effective tool for managing your business finances during tax season.

3) TurboTax Freedom Edition for Military Personnel
TurboTax provides a free option for active-duty military members ranked E1 through E9 through its Freedom Edition. Those with higher ranks can still access a discounted version. To take advantage of this offer, a military W-2 tax form from fiscal year 2024 is required.

4) Discounts Through Financial Institutions
TurboTax partners with various financial institutions and credit unions to provide exclusive discounts. Some of the most notable partnerships include AAA, Bank of America, Fidelity Investments, BECU, and Vystar,  If you’re a customer of a participating bank or credit union, check the “deals” or “partnerships” sections of your online banking portal for available promotions.

5) TurboTax Free Edition for Simple Returns
If your tax situation is straightforward, the TurboTax Free Edition might be the right choice. It allows eligible taxpayers to file both federal and state taxes at no cost. This edition is ideal for Form 1040 filings and supports a limited set of credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and Student Loan Interest Deduction. However, only about 37% of taxpayers qualify, as the Free Edition does not support complex scenarios like business ownership, itemized deductions, or investment income.

TurboTax and Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU)

Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) continues its tradition of offering a TurboTax discount to its members for the 2025 tax season. Members can enjoy a 20% discount on TurboTax federal products by accessing the link provided in their online account. Note that this discount applies only to federal products and cannot be combined with other offers. Additionally, LMCU members can take advantage of a $25 discount on in-office tax preparation services from H&R Block.

Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU): Background and Tax Season Resources

History and Overview
Lake Michigan Credit Union, established in 1933, is a member-owned financial institution headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan. As one of the largest credit unions in the country, LMCU serves over 500,000 members with a range of financial products, including savings accounts, loans, mortgages, and tax-related resources.

Membership and Benefits
Joining LMCU is relatively straightforward. Membership is open to anyone who meets eligibility criteria, such as living, working, or worshiping in a qualifying area, or making a small donation to a partnered organization. Members benefit from competitive rates, low fees, and exclusive perks like the TurboTax discount.

Tax Document Access
LMCU provides members with easy access to tax-related documents:

• Physical Documents: Tax forms such as 1098, 1099-INT, and 1099-MISC are mailed via USPS by January 31.
• Digital Documents: Members opted into eStatements can access digital tax forms in the Tax Center within online banking. Mortgage-related documents are available in the mortgage portal.

Year-End Dividend and Interest Information
LMCU members receive year-to-date dividend and interest information on their December statements. Dividends under $10 are not reported to the IRS, but members are advised to consult a tax professional to determine their filing obligations.

When setting up direct deposit for tax refunds, members should use their full 12-digit account number and LMCU’s routing number, which can be found in the ‘Services’ section of online banking or the mobile app.

Benefits of LMCU for Tax Season

• Convenience: Access tax documents and account information through online banking.
• Discounts: Save on TurboTax and H&R Block services.
• Support: While LMCU does not provide tax advice, members can consult professional resources for assistance.

Considerations

• Tax documents are typically available by January 31, 2025 but members are encouraged to verify their mailing and email addresses to ensure timely delivery.
• The TurboTax discount applies only to federal products, so those filing state taxes may need to explore additional resources.

Filing Taxes with LMCU: Tips and Best Practices

Using the Tax Center
LMCU’s online banking platform features a dedicated Tax Center, where members can:

• View year-end interest and dividend summaries.
• Access digital versions of 1099 and 1098 forms.
• Retrieve account details for direct deposit setup.

Preparing for Tax Season

• Verify Information: Double-check your contact information in online banking to ensure tax forms are sent to the correct address.
• Consult Professionals: If your tax situation is complex, consider hiring a qualified tax professional to maximize deductions and ensure compliance with tax laws.

Filing Options
Members can choose from several filing options:

• Use TurboTax or H&R Block software to file electronically.
• Seek assistance from a tax professional for in-person preparation.
• Leverage free filing options if eligible, such as the TurboTax Free Edition.

Updated on Sunday, April 6, 2025: With the April 15th tax deadline fast approaching, TurboTax has several deals now live to help you file in time. Here are our favorites:

• 1) Get an Extra 10% Off TurboTax Online:
  Save an additional 10% on TurboTax Online federal products with instant coupon, when ordering directly through Intuit. This discount is on top of current end-of-season pricing. Just note, offer does not apply to state products and cannot be combined with any other coupons. The promotion runs until April 15, 2025.
• 2) TurboTax Freedom Edition for Military Personnel:
  Active-duty military personnel ranked E1 through E9 can use TurboTax Freedom Edition for free. Those ranked above E9 receive a discount but are not eligible for the free version. A valid military W2 form from the 2024 fiscal year is required.
• 3) 50% Off QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle:
  For freelancers and small business owners, the QuickBooks Solopreneur Bundle is available at half price for the first three months, dropping the monthly cost from $20 to $10.
• 4) Bank and Credit Union Discounts:
  TurboTax partners with several financial institutions to offer exclusive discounts ranging from 10% to 20% off. That incudes major institutions such as AAA, Bank of America, PenFed, BECU, Fidelity, and  First Tech. Check your bank or credit union’s deals section to see if any offers are available.
• 5) TurboTax Free Edition for Simple Returns:
  Designed for individuals with straightforward tax situations, the Free Edition allows eligible users to file both federal and state taxes at no cost. It supports basic filings like Form 1040 and certain credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit. However, only about 37% of taxpayers qualify, as it excludes complex scenarios like itemized deductions, business ownership, or investments.

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TurboTax Discount for VyStar Credit Union Members:

VyStar Credit Union members are eligible for a 20% discount on TurboTax federal products. To access the discount, log in to your VyStar online account and follow the provided link. Keep in mind:

• The discount applies only to TurboTax federal products, not state filings.
• Offers cannot be combined with other TurboTax promotions.
• Pricing and terms may vary based on the product selected and are subject to change without prior notice.

VyStar has a history of collaborating with TurboTax, consistently offering members discounts during tax season. This partnership simplifies the filing process while providing savings for eligible members.

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About VyStar Credit Union:

History and Background:

Founded in 1952 in Jacksonville, Florida, VyStar Credit Union began as Jax Navy Federal Credit Union, serving military personnel. Over time, it expanded its membership criteria to include residents and businesses across Florida and parts of Georgia. Today, VyStar is one of the largest credit unions in the United States, with over 800,000 members and billions in assets.

Membership and Services:

VyStar offers a range of financial services, including savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and financial education tools. Membership is open to anyone living or working in Florida or parts of Georgia. Joining requires a small initial deposit, typically $5, into a savings account.

Tax-Related Services:

VyStar provides several resources to help members during tax season:

• TurboTax Discount: A direct link to TurboTax’s 20% off promotion for federal filings.
• United Way of Northeast Florida’s RealSense™ Program: Members can access free tax preparation services through RealSense, which helps eligible individuals and families file federal returns. Appointments are available across Northeast Florida counties, including at certain VyStar branches.
• MyFreeTaxes.com: An online platform for eligible individuals to file simple federal tax returns at no cost.

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Benefits and Cons of VyStar Membership:

Benefits:

• Member-Focused Services: As a not-for-profit institution, VyStar prioritizes member needs over profits, offering lower fees and competitive rates.
• Access to Discounts: Partnerships with companies like TurboTax provide exclusive savings.
• Community Involvement: VyStar actively supports local communities through financial literacy programs and charitable initiatives.

Cons:

• Limited Accessibility: Membership is restricted to residents in certain regions, which may limit availability for some individuals.
• Fewer Branches Compared to Banks: While VyStar has numerous branches in Florida, it may not be as accessible as nationwide banks for non-members.

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Filing Resources and Forms:

VyStar members can download commonly used IRS tax forms directly from their website or through links to the IRS site. These include:

• 1040: Standard U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
• 1040-SR: Tailored for taxpayers aged 65 and older.
• W-4: Employee’s Withholding Certificate.
• W-2: Wage and Tax Statement for employees.
• 1099: Used for non-employee income, including freelance work.
• 4868: Application for an extension to file taxes.

Additional forms like Schedules A through SE are also accessible, covering itemized deductions, capital gains, and self-employment taxes.

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Protecting Yourself During Tax Season:

Tax identity theft is a growing concern, where criminals file fraudulent returns using stolen Social Security numbers. Protect yourself with these tips:

• File taxes early to prevent fraudulent filings under your SSN.
• Use strong passwords for financial accounts.
• Avoid sharing sensitive information online or through unsecured channels.
• Shred documents containing financial information before discarding them.

If you suspect tax identity theft:

1. Submit IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit).
2. File your return by mail if electronic filing is rejected.
3. Contact the IRS and respond to correspondence promptly.
4. Place fraud alerts with credit bureaus and consider freezing your credit.

VyStar partners with CyberScout® to offer identity protection services, including credit monitoring and fraud alerts. Members can explore these services to enhance security.

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Contact Information:

VyStar members seeking assistance with taxes, identity theft, or other financial matters can contact the credit union’s representatives. The contact center is open Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., excluding holidays.

Phone Numbers:

• Local: 904-777-6000
• Toll-Free: 800-445-6289

For more information, visit VyStar’s website or consult their financial literacy resources.