Exact Answer: 1 Hour
After the holiday season comes the tax season and this will have many Americans wondering exactly how they should be getting their taxes completed this year. For some people, this will require a visit to an accountant or tax specialist, and for others, they’ll be looking for online tax services such as Turbotax.
Turbotax is a trusted do-it-yourself online tax service that millions of people use every year. However, many people will begin to wonder just how long Turbotax takes, both to file a return and for the return to hit their account. For many, the answer may be simple.
How Long Does Turbotax Take?
| Return | Time to Prepare and Complete |
| Average | About 1 hour |
| Complicated | Around 1-2 hours |
Turbotax is meant to be an easy alternative to visiting a tax specialist or tax service company in person. Because of this, the time it takes one to prepare a tax return is drastically reduced. For instance, depending on the return, Turbotax may take:
-On average: For an average tax return which is done through Turbotax software, one can expect to spend about 1 hour preparing their return, sometimes less time is required.
-Complicated returns: For more complicated returns, such as a return that involves more than one dependent, or returns that involve credits or plenty of deductions, one can expect to spend between 1 to 2 hours while preparing and completing their tax return.
Turbotax makes it relatively easy for anyone to use their service, complete with on-site help if it’s needed. However, sometimes returns are longer and may take longer to complete. All Turbotax tax returns which are filed electronically should be received by the government within the same day. Those expecting a refund can expect a refund within 21 days of filing.
Why Does Turbotax Take That Long?
Turbotax tax software is created with the consumer in mind. Because of this, it makes filing your own taxes relatively easy to do. Every aspect of the process has helpful links and even live customer service should one need it. Because of this, tax returns filed through Turbotax don’t take very long to complete at all.
It should be noted that once your return has been electronically filed, it will still need to be accepted by the IRS before it can begin processing. This happens on the same day of filing. Refunds are processed and deposited within 21 days. Do not call the IRS about your refund until your 21 days have been met.
Most refunds are deposited within 2 weeks, however, unless you printed your return to file it. Printed and mailed returns can expect to take at least 1 to 2 weeks longer than returns that were electronically filed.
However, those who choose to use Turbotax as their method of preparing and filing their tax return can expect the process to be quick and easy. One is able to work on their return at their own pace, with additional help being available if needed.
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I’ve heard about people having to wait months for their refund when they e-file. I think I’d rather file by mail to get it faster.
The majority of people who e-file get their refund in about 2 weeks. It’s usually the fastest way to get your money.
I used to file my taxes manually and it took me forever. I was so relieved when I started using Turbotax. I would never go back to the old way of doing things.
You’re right, Turbotax saves me so much time on my taxes.
Your time is valuable. With Turbotax, you can get your taxes done efficiently and accurately.
I don’t understand why people wouldn’t use Turbotax. The average time it takes to do your taxes is just an hour, and you can even get it done for free in some cases. What’s the point of paying an accountant?
Turbotax is great. I’ve never had any issues with it and it’s so much faster than doing my own taxes manually.
I’m glad Turbotax works for you. It’s great to see people having positive experiences with their taxes.
I usually have pretty complicated returns because of all the deductions I have to make. It takes me about 2 hours to get everything done with Turbotax. They make it pretty simple, but I wish it took less time.
I know what you mean. I’ve been using Turbotax for years now and my returns are usually pretty complex. I’ve found it to be really helpful at guiding you through more complicated tax situations.
If I were you guys, I would just print out my return and file it manually. That way you get your refund faster.
I’m not sure if I trust Turbotax. The fact that it takes 1 or 2 weeks longer for your refund to be deposited if you file your return by mail seems like a major inconvenience. Why should we be penalized for not e-filing?
It’s 1-2 weeks at most, but most people get their refund in just 2 weeks. It’s not that bad, especially if it’s easier for you to file by mail.
If I can get my taxes done in an hour without paying an accountant, I’d say that’s a win.
Plus, when you e-file, the IRS will process your return within the same day.
It’s definitely more appealing when you look at it from a time and cost perspective.
I file my taxes with Turbotax every year and I always get my refund pretty quickly. It’s a really convenient service and it only takes me about an hour to file everything.
I’m always worried about getting audited when I do my own taxes. I’m going to stick to using my accountant.
I’ve used Turbotax for a few years now and I’ve never had a problem. It only takes me 1 hour to get my taxes done and it’s much easier and cheaper than going to an actual accountant.
That’s interesting! I’ve always been a little scared to do my taxes on my own, but it sounds like Turbotax makes it pretty easy.
I don’t trust doing my own taxes. I feel like it’s too easy to make a mistake and get audited. I’d rather just pay an accountant and play it safe.
I don’t blame you. It’s easy to make mistakes on your taxes. Turbotax can help prevent that, but it’s not foolproof.