I just finished my taxes for 2009. It took me about 30 minutes online. Technology is a beautiful thing!
The last few years I've e-filed. A computer, a internet connection, and your W-2 forms are all you need. Its also very helpful if you have your 2008 tax return that shows what your adjusted gross income was for 2008 because they'll ask you so you can verify that you're you. Also a printer or at least the drive space to save the file as a PDF document so you can print it later is necessary as well. You have to save the completed forms!
If your gross income was less than $57,000 in 2009 its free and you get your refund deposited into your checking account in 8-14 days.
I remember the days when it took 4-6 weeks to get a check and that's after having to fill out all of the forms, mail them, and then wait. Its super easy these days. (No, I'm not going into a long story about how things worked in the olden days. You're welcome.)
I use the Turbotax online service. Its pretty easy and simple to understand. If I can figure it out then pretty much anyone can. I'm not a rocket scientist, I'm a radio DJ! (I'm not endorsing Turbotax, I just think it works really well.)
Here's the link to the Turbotax site: Click here
The IRS website if you need that: Click here They have a list of services that offer free filing and electronic online taxes if you want to try something else other than Turbotax.
