All posts by BlackerFriday.com

TurboTax 2026 Discounts & Deals

Updated on Sunday, February 1, 2026: Tax season is here once again, and TurboTax is offering several ways to save when filing with them. Here’s a look at TurboTax’s best discounts available today and how Boeing Employees’ Credit Union (BECU) is playing a role this tax season.


Current TurboTax 2026 Discounts & Offers

1. 20% Off Instant Coupon on TurboTax’s Federal Filing

TurboTax is reducing the price of its federal tax filing products by 20% when purchased directly from Intuit through March 30, 2026. The adjustment is applied after any seasonal pricing and applies only to the federal portion of a return. State filing is not included and carries a separate fee. The updated price appears automatically during checkout.

2. App-Based Free Filing for New Filers

Taxpayers who did not file with TurboTax last year can submit their returns for free using the TurboTax or Credit Karma mobile app. Selecting the self-guided filing option allows both federal and state returns to be completed at no cost. This filing path supports a range of income types beyond W-2 wages, including freelance work and rental income. Returns must be completed in the app by February 28, 2026 to qualify.

3. Early-Season Pricing Window

TurboTax offers lower pricing earlier in the tax season, with federal filing costs reduced by up to $40 for returns filed by February 27, 2026. Filers retain the option to choose their preferred level of assistance, from self-preparation to professional review.

4. File for free with TurboTax Free Edition

TurboTax’s Free Edition. ~37% of filers qualify. Simple Form 1040 returns only (no schedules, except for EITC, CTC, student loan interest, and Schedule 1-A).

5. No-Cost Filing for Eligible Military Members

Active-duty military members in pay grades E1 through E9 can file their taxes at no cost through the TurboTax Freedom Edition. Service members above those pay grades are eligible for discounted pricing. A military W-2 from the 2025 tax year is required to qualify. This option is designed to accommodate the tax filing needs of active-duty personnel.


BECU Members: Special TurboTax Offers

For Boeing Employees’ Credit Union (BECU) members, TurboTax continues to deliver exclusive benefits in 2026. Members receive 20% off several key TurboTax software versions, making it easier to choose a product that fits your tax needs.

  • TurboTax Deluxe: Perfect for individuals looking to maximize deductions, including expenses like mortgage interest, charitable donations, and medical costs.
  • TurboTax Premier: Designed for taxpayers with investments, rental income, or cryptocurrency transactions.
  • TurboTax Self-Employed: Tailored for freelancers, contractors, and small business owners. This version simplifies tracking expenses and ensures you don’t miss industry-specific deductions.
  • TurboTax Live and Full Service: Options for those seeking expert assistance. TurboTax Live connects you to professionals for on-demand help, while Full Service lets an expert handle the entire process for you.

To redeem these discounts, BECU members must use a specific link as provided by the credit union. The discount will be applied automatically at checkout.


BECU and Tax Season: Everything You Need to Know

A Brief Overview of BECU

Boeing Employees’ Credit Union (BECU) started in 1935 with just $9 in assets, serving a handful of Boeing employees. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest not-for-profit credit unions in the United States, with millions of members. Today, BECU offers a variety of financial products, including checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and investment services.

Accessing Tax Documents with BECU

Filing taxes involves gathering all necessary documents, and BECU makes this process seamless for its members:

  • Tax Statements Availability: Current tax statements are accessible via BECU’s Online Banking platform starting January 31 each year. You can also retrieve tax forms dating back to 2018.
  • Requesting Paper Copies: If you prefer paper statements or need a replacement, you can request one through BECU’s customer service line or by visiting a local branch.
  • Interest Earned Summary: Access your Interest Summary by logging into Online Banking and selecting the “Accounts” tab. This will display your prior year’s dividends or interest earnings, along with year-to-date figures.

Tax Form Details

  • Form 1098 (Loan Interest Paid): This form reports interest paid on eligible loans, including mortgages or home equity loans. Members who paid $600 or more in interest will receive a 1098 form, either online or via mail.
  • Form 1099-INT (Interest Income): If you earned $10 or more in interest across all deposit accounts, BECU will issue a 1099-INT form. This form consolidates interest from all accounts associated with your Social Security Number (SSN) or Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).
  • Form 1099-R (Retirement Distributions): This form covers IRA distributions exceeding $10, excluding transfers between IRA accounts.

Benefits and Drawbacks of BECU During Tax Season

Advantages:

  1. Comprehensive Tools for Tax Filers: BECU offers easy online access to tax forms and summaries, making tax preparation efficient.
  2. Member Discounts: Partnerships with TurboTax allow members to save money on tax preparation software.
  3. Low Fees: As a credit union, BECU typically charges lower fees compared to traditional banks, which can help you save year-round.

Drawbacks:

  1. Limited Eligibility: BECU membership is primarily available to residents of Washington state, as well as employees of select companies like Boeing.
  2. Tax Statement Restrictions: Only primary account holders can access tax forms online, which might cause inconvenience for joint account holders.

Other Tax Resources for 2026

BECU isn’t your only resource this tax season. Here are some additional tools and tips to help you maximize your refund and avoid unnecessary stress:

  • IRS Free File: Available to individuals or families with an adjusted gross income of $79,000 or less. This program partners with tax preparation companies to offer free filing services.
  • Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): A free service for taxpayers earning $64,000 or less, seniors, or individuals with disabilities.
  • Direct File Pilot Program: The IRS is rolling out its own filing platform for low- to moderate-income earners. Available in select states, this program is expected to expand by mid-March.

Filing Tips and Refund Insights

  • Direct Deposit for Refunds: The IRS encourages taxpayers to file electronically and use direct deposit to receive refunds faster. You can direct your refund into up to three accounts, including savings accounts or mobile payment apps.
  • Refund Delays for Certain Credits: If you claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), refunds will not be issued before mid-February due to federal requirements.
  • IRS Resources: The “Where’s My Refund?” tool and Interactive Tax Assistant on IRS.gov can help you track your refund status or answer specific tax questions.

Our Final Thoughts

Tax season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With tools like TurboTax and financial partners like BECU, filing can be simpler, more affordable, and less stressful. Take advantage of discounts and resources to ensure you maximize your refund while staying compliant with IRS regulations.

If you’re a BECU member, don’t forget to utilize your exclusive TurboTax discounts and access online banking tools to retrieve your tax documents. And for everyone else, be sure to explore the variety of free and low-cost filing options available through the IRS and trusted partners.

Current TurboTax 2026 Discounts & Offers

Updated on Sunday, February 1, 2026: With tax season back again, TurboTax is offering a handful of special discounts to make filing easier and a little bit more affordable. Here’s a look at the best deals available today:

1. TurboTax 20% Off Instant Discount

TurboTax is applying a 20% discount to federal tax filing products purchased directly from Intuit through March 30, 2026. The discount is applied after any existing seasonal pricing and applies only to the federal portion of a return. State filing is excluded and priced separately. The reduced price is reflected during checkout when eligible products are selected.

2. Free Mobile Filing for New Customers

Anyone who did not file with TurboTax in the previous tax year can submit their return for free using the TurboTax mobile app. Choosing the self-prepared filing option allows both federal and state returns to be completed at no cost. This free option supports a wide range of income types, including contract work, investment income, and rental property. To qualify, the return must be filed in the app by February 28, 2026.

3. Reduced Pricing for Early Submissions

TurboTax offers lower pricing earlier in the tax season, with federal filing costs reduced by up to $40 for returns filed by February 27, 2026. Filers can still select the level of assistance they prefer, whether completing the return independently or working with a tax professional.

4. File for free with TurboTax Free Edition

TurboTax’s Free Edition. ~37% of filers qualify. Simple Form 1040 returns only (no schedules, except for EITC, CTC, student loan interest, and Schedule 1-A).

5. Filing Option for Active-Duty Military

Active-duty service members in pay grades E1 through E9 can file their taxes at no cost using the TurboTax Freedom Edition. Those above that rank are eligible for discounted pricing rather than free filing. Eligibility requires a military W-2 from the 2025 tax year. The Freedom Edition is designed to accommodate tax situations commonly associated with military service.


The End of Capital One’s TurboTax Discount in 2026

In recent years, Capital One partnered with TurboTax to offer discounts to its customers. These deals were accessible through the bank’s online portal and provided savings on key TurboTax products like Deluxe, Premier, and Self-Employed editions.

However, for 2026, Capital One is no longer extending this promotion (the link still works but no discount is applied anymore). However, it’s still worth checking your online account portal, as there may be specific offers for select account holders.


Capital One: History, Role in Finances, and Tax Season Connections

An Overview of Capital One

Founded in 1994, Capital One started as a pioneer in the credit card industry, focusing on data-driven solutions to meet customer needs. Over the years, it has evolved into a full-service bank offering checking and savings accounts, loans, and wealth management services.

Capital One stands out for its user-friendly digital banking tools, making it a popular choice for individuals and small business owners. It also offers credit cards with competitive cashback, travel rewards, and other perks that appeal to a broad customer base.

Capital One and Financial Services

Capital One’s emphasis on financial literacy and resource accessibility is a key part of its mission. The bank provides a suite of tools designed to help clients manage their money more effectively, including:

  • CreditWise: A free tool that allows users to monitor their credit score and receive alerts.
  • Capital One Shopping: A browser extension that helps users find discounts and save on online purchases.
  • Mobile Banking App: Features like budgeting tools, spending trackers, and mobile check deposit make it easy to manage finances on the go.

Capital One and Taxes: Benefits and Limitations

Capital One doesn’t directly specialize in tax preparation, but its resources can assist during tax season.

Capital One’s Financial Tools for Tax Season

  • Account Statements and Records: Capital One customers can easily access year-end financial summaries, which simplify tax filing for those with credit cards, loans, or savings accounts.
  • Small Business Support: For entrepreneurs, Capital One provides business credit cards and checking accounts that make it easier to track expenses and organize tax-deductible purchases.
  • Investment Accounts: Capital One Investing (now part of E*TRADE) has offered tools for individuals looking to manage taxable investment income.

Pros of Using Capital One During Tax Season

  1. Convenient Digital Banking: The mobile app and online platform streamline access to financial records, which are crucial for filing taxes.
  2. Small Business-Friendly: Business accounts come with features tailored for entrepreneurs, such as transaction categorization.
  3. Accessibility: No fees or minimum balances on many accounts make it an affordable option for a wide range of customers.

Cons of Using Capital One for Tax Season

  1. No Dedicated Tax Resources: Unlike some financial institutions, Capital One doesn’t offer specific tools or discounts for tax filing beyond account management.
  2. Discontinuation of TurboTax Discount: The absence of this discount in 2026 removes a significant benefit for customers.

How to Get Started with Capital One

Capital One makes it simple to sign up for an account or apply for a credit card. Here’s how:

  1. Online: Visit the Capital One website and complete the application process. Many accounts are approved within minutes.
  2. In-Person: Capital One has physical branches and Capital One Cafés in select cities, where customers can open accounts or receive personalized financial guidance.
  3. Mobile App: New customers can download the app and open accounts directly from their smartphones.

Our Final Thoughts

The TurboTax 2026 discounts and the evolving landscape of financial institution partnerships highlight the importance of staying informed during tax season. While Capital One no longer offers its TurboTax discount, customers can still leverage the bank’s digital tools and resources to streamline their tax preparation.

As tax season progresses, explore your options, take advantage of available discounts, and stay organized to ensure a smooth and cost-effective filing process. Whether you’re using TurboTax or another platform, preparation is key to navigating tax season successfully.

TurboTax 2026 Discounts & Coupons: Roundup of The Top Deals

Updated on Sunday, February 1, 2026: The 2026 tax deadline is nearly upon us, and as always, TurboTax continues to offer a range of discounts through several different partnerships to help you save on their tax prep software (such as SECU). Here’s a rundown of all of our favorite deals currently deals available on TurboTax, including Basic, Deluxe, Premier, Home & Business and Self-Employed editions:

1. TurboTax 20% Off Instant Discount

TurboTax is providing a 20% instant discount on federal tax filing products when purchased directly from Intuit through March 30, 2026. The discount is applied after standard pricing adjustments and applies only to the federal return. State filing is not included and is charged separately. The reduced price appears automatically during checkout.

2. App-Based Free Filing for New Users

Those who did not use TurboTax during the prior tax year can file their taxes for free using the TurboTax mobile app. Selecting the do-it-yourself option allows both federal and state returns to be submitted at no cost. This filing method supports income types such as freelance work, investments, and rental property. Returns must be completed within the app by February 28, 2026 to qualify.

3. Early-Season Pricing Advantage

TurboTax offers lower federal filing prices earlier in the tax season, with potential savings of up to $40 on returns filed by February 27, 2026. Filers may choose their preferred level of assistance, whether filing independently or working with a tax professional.

4. File for free with TurboTax Free Edition

TurboTax’s Free Edition. ~37% of filers qualify. Simple Form 1040 returns only (no schedules, except for EITC, CTC, student loan interest, and Schedule 1-A).

5. Military-Specific Filing Option

Active-duty military members in pay grades E1 through E9 can file at no cost using the TurboTax Freedom Edition. Service members above those ranks are eligible for discounted pricing. A military W-2 from the 2025 tax year is required to qualify. This edition is designed to address tax filing needs commonly associated with military service.


TurboTax Discounts for SECU Members

The State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) has maintained a partnership with TurboTax, offering members a 20% discount on tax preparation software. This discount applies to federal filing products and is available through a special link provided in the SECU member portal.

To claim the discount, SECU members can:

  1. Log in to their SECU online account.
  2. Navigate to the “Member Discounts” section.
  3. Follow the TurboTax link to automatically apply the savings during purchase.

This partnership reflects SECU’s commitment to providing financial benefits and resources for its members during tax season.


Understanding State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU)

Founded in 1937, SECU is one of the largest credit unions in the United States, serving over 2.7 million members. Initially established to support North Carolina’s state employees, SECU has grown to include various financial services, including loans, savings accounts, and tax-related tools.

Tax Resources Offered by SECU

SECU assists members with tax preparation and document management by providing easy access to essential tax forms:

  • IRS Form 1098: Shows mortgage interest, property taxes, and private mortgage insurance paid via escrow.
  • IRS Form 1099-INT: Reports interest earned from SECU deposit accounts.
  • IRS Form 1099-R: Details distributions from retirement accounts, including IRAs.
  • IRS Form 1099-C: Indicates canceled debt of $600 or more.
  • IRS Form 5498: Provides IRA contribution details.

Members can view these forms online through SECU’s Member Access portal by January 31, 2026 for most documents and by May 31, 2026 for Form 5498.

Additional Tax Tools and Benefits

  • Credit Card Annual Activity Summary: SECU offers an itemized summary of credit card transactions, categorized for easier budgeting and tax preparation. This feature is available to members with at least 25 annual purchases.
  • Direct Deposit Refunds: SECU ensures fast refunds via direct deposit, requiring members to provide accurate routing (253177049) and account information.

Pros and Cons of Using SECU for Tax Season

Benefits

  1. Convenient Access to Tax Documents: Members can retrieve essential forms online, streamlining the tax filing process.
  2. Discounted TurboTax Services: SECU’s partnership with TurboTax ensures significant savings.
  3. Comprehensive Financial Support: From mortgage statements to IRA details, SECU provides a holistic view of your financial picture.

Drawbacks

  1. Limited to SECU-Generated Forms: Members need to retrieve forms from other financial institutions for external accounts or investments.
  2. Digital Accessibility Required: Navigating SECU’s online portal may pose challenges for less tech-savvy individuals.

Free and Low-Cost Tax Preparation Options

For those seeking alternatives to paid services, several free and affordable resources are available:

IRS Free File

If your income is $73,000 or less, you can access free tax preparation software through the IRS Free File program. It offers user-friendly options to file federal and state taxes. For incomes above $73,000, the IRS provides fillable forms for federal returns.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

The VITA program offers free tax help for individuals earning $64,000 or less, as well as for persons with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. IRS-certified volunteers assist with basic tax preparation and electronic filing.

Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)

Designed for taxpayers aged 60 and older, TCE offers free tax counseling through IRS-trained volunteers. Many TCE sites are operated by the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program, which runs from late January through mid-April.

MilTax for Military Members

Available through the Department of Defense, MilTax provides free tax preparation software and e-filing for all military members, regardless of income.


How to Avoid Tax Filing Errors

Whether filing independently or with professional help, accuracy is critical:

  1. Verify Direct Deposit Information: Ensure your routing and account numbers are correct to avoid delays or lost refunds.
  2. Double-Check Tax Documents: Cross-reference forms like W-2s, 1099s, and mortgage statements for discrepancies.
  3. Use Reputable Software: Trusted platforms like TurboTax simplify the filing process and reduce errors.

Our Final Thoughts

SECU and TurboTax provide valuable resources to navigate tax season efficiently. From discounted software to accessible tax documents, these tools cater to a variety of financial situations. Whether you’re taking advantage of free tax preparation programs or leveraging SECU’s partnerships, careful planning and attention to detail will help ensure a smooth filing experience.