Has anyone used H&R Block? They're running a special for $195 for self-employed returns. Wondering if they're any good for this kind of situation or if they're basically just using the same software I could buy myself?

Given your specific situation with W-2s from two states, 1099 delivery income, and a mid-year move, I'd lean toward paying a professional this first year. Here's why: The multi-state aspect alone can be tricky - you'll need to figure out which state gets to tax what income, and there are often reciprocity agreements or credits that prevent double taxation that software might not catch. Plus, with $13K in delivery income, you're looking at self-employment tax on top of regular income tax, but also significant potential deductions. For delivery work, you can deduct mileage (65.5¢/mile for 2023), phone expenses, car maintenance, insurance portions, and potentially equipment costs. Even if you conservatively drove 10,000 miles for deliveries, that's $6,550 in deductions right there. At your income level ($68K total), a good preparer could easily save you more than their $350-450 fee through deductions you might miss and proper state allocation. Think of it as an investment in learning - ask them to explain what they're doing so you can potentially handle it yourself next year if your situation stabilizes. If cost is a major concern, look for an Enrolled Agent (EA) rather than a CPA - they're IRS-licensed tax professionals who often charge less than CPAs but have the same expertise for tax prep.

One thing to consider that nobody's mentioned - your time investment. Online takes me about 3-4 hours total each year. My sister goes to a CPA and spends maybe 30 minutes dropping off docs and 15 minutes reviewing. If you value your time highly or find taxes stressful, that difference matters.

This is such a helpful thread! As someone who's been doing taxes online for years, I'd say for your situation (W-2, stock sales, $7,800 side gig), online is probably the way to go - especially with all the great tools people have mentioned here. The key is being strategic about it. I'd recommend starting with one of the free/cheaper options like FreeTaxUSA that @CosmicCrusader mentioned, since they handle Schedule C for side businesses well. If you run into specific questions about stock transactions or business deductions, that's where services like Claimyr could be really valuable to get direct IRS guidance before you file. One tip from my experience: take your time with the business expense section. Software often asks generic questions, but for a $7,800 side gig, you might have deductions for equipment, supplies, or even a portion of your phone/internet if you use them for business. The AI tools people mentioned could be helpful here too. Bottom line - start online, use the tools available when you need expert input, and you'll probably save both money and stress compared to going straight to a CPA for a relatively straightforward situation like yours.

anyone know if u can e-file amendments now? heard they were supposed to start allowing that

Been through this process twice now and here's what I've learned: expect 20-25 weeks realistically, not the 16 they advertise. The "Where's My Amended Return" tool is basically useless - it'll show "processing" for months with no updates. Your best bet is to get your account transcripts every few weeks to see if there's any movement. Also, if you owe money from the amendment, pay it ASAP to avoid interest piling up while they take forever to process it. Good luck! 🤞

Heads up! If your LLC elected S-Corporation status at any point, you need to file Form 1120-S instead of 1065. Made this mistake my first year and got a nasty letter from the IRS. Double check your entity classification before filing.

Just to clarify something that might be confusing from the thread - while there's no IRS filing fee for Form 1065, don't forget about your state requirements! Even with zero activity, many states still require annual filings and fees. For example, if you're in California, you'll owe the $800 minimum franchise tax even with no income. Texas has a "no tax due" report that still needs to be filed. Each state is different, so check your state's Secretary of State website or Department of Revenue. Also, since you mentioned this LLC has been inactive, you might want to consider formally dissolving it if you don't plan to use it. This could save you from ongoing state fees and annual filing requirements. You'd need to file a final Form 1065 (checking the "final return" box) and handle the state dissolution process, but it might be worth it long-term.

I work at a credit union and see this exact situation pretty regularly. The "already verified" message doesn't mean your check is bad - it just means the check has been run through a verification system once already. Target's system likely did verify it was legitimate but then couldn't process it due to their internal limits or policies. A few tips from someone who processes these daily: - Credit unions are often more flexible with government checks than big banks - If you have any bank account anywhere, even a small balance, depositing there is your best bet - Treasury checks (which tax refunds are) have a 1-year expiration, so you have time to figure this out - The issuing bank route mentioned above is solid advice - they legally have to honor their own checks Don't stress too much about the verification flag. It's more of a tracking thing than a problem with your actual check. You'll get your money!

I had almost the exact same experience with Jackson Financial last year! The "already verified" thing is super confusing but it doesn't mean your check is ruined. What helped me was calling Jackson Financial directly and asking them to walk me through the best places to cash it in my area. They actually had a list of banks and credit unions that regularly work with their refund checks without issues. Also, if you're really stuck, Jackson Financial might be able to help you reissue the refund as direct deposit for a small fee. It's not ideal since you've already waited for the money, but it could save you more driving around and frustration. I ended up going that route and got my refund deposited within 3 business days. Don't give up - that money is definitely yours and there are multiple ways to get it! The verification flag is just a speed bump, not a roadblock.