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Quick Review: UFile 2007

January 6th, 2008 ·

Since QuickTax Standard reduced the number of returns to two this year, I decided to try out UFile for filing our 2007 tax returns instead. UFile is available for download from the vendor’s website for $29.99 but you can also pick it up at Future Shop or Best Buy for $19.99. I picked up a copy from Future Shop over the weekend and here are my impressions from trying it out:

  1. You can easily substitute one tax software for another because all CRA approved software is tested thoroughly before being certified. Even if you are filing just two tax returns, UFile’s retail price is at least $10 cheaper than QuickTax Standard.
  2. If you are preparing more than 2 tax returns, UFile is even more cost-effective as it allows you to file up to 8 returns.
  3. I was able to import data such as names, addresses, SIN numbers, RRSP contribution room etc. from QuickTax 2006 into UFile 2007. It’s not too much work to enter all this information but it’s nice not having to do this chore.
  4. UFile uses the interview method to enter tax information. I tried out entering some T4s, RRSP contributions, charitable donations, childcare expenses, tuition amounts etc. UFile supports self-employment income, investment income, rental income, capital gains etc. As far as I can tell, UFile should be able to handle complicated tax returns.
  5. The biggest knock against UFile is that it doesn’t allow you to directly enter information bypassing the interview method. For example, in QuickTax you can bring up the T4 slips by clicking on line 101 of the T1 General. I personally like this method of entering tax information but UFile does not support it.
  6. A minor quibble with UFile is that your tax return is not automatically updated when you enter information. You’ll have to click the results tab before an update is triggered.

Despite the minor quibbles, UFile is a strong competitor to QuickTax Standard. If you are preparing more than two tax returns, you might want to consider switching to UFile - it’s cheaper and will get the job done just as well.

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Tags: Software · Taxes

121 responses so far ↓

  • 1 Neil // Jan 6, 2008 at 7:52 pm

    Thanks for doing the great review, it is great to see another alternative especially given the Quicktax “dollar grab” in their returns changes. There are also numerous posts that indicate that Quicktax 2007 is currently broken and won’t be fixed for another week.

    Another interesting piece of software for people with simple returns is Studiotax, a completely free tax prep software with NETFILE capability. I haven’t played with it much myself yet as I’ve just learned of it and I’m waiting for their 2007 update (scheduled for this coming week), but may be of interest to some of your readers. Since it is free (as in beer) it might be worth a cursory look!

    http://www.studiotax.com/en/main.htm

    Thanks for all your tips!
    Neil

  • 2 Silicon Prairie // Jan 6, 2008 at 9:42 pm

    I looked at ufile recently to do an estimate of my taxes using last year’s rules (they were prepared on another computer with quicktax) and it seems a lot more confusing. I’m not sure I would get all the details right so it might be worth paying a bit more for a product that’s easier to use. The only problem is that I can’t tell if quicktax standard will work for me at all since all my income is from self-employment.

  • 3 Canadian Capitalist // Jan 6, 2008 at 10:12 pm

    Neil: I’ll check out StudioTax when it is ready. I’m also planning to try out GenuTax.

    SP: Yes, UFile is a bit harder to use if you don’t like the interview method and would prefer to directly enter in the forms. However I think you’ll get the details right because you do get the forms filled in once you click the results tab.

  • 4 George // Jan 6, 2008 at 10:43 pm

    In past years my wife and I have split the cost of Quicktax with another couple - they’d come over and do their tax returns on our computer, and in exchange they’d buy the pizza. We can’t do that this year, since Quicktax only supports 2 returns.

    I’ve already purchased Quicktax, but I’m keeping my receipt and very seriously considering returning it to Intuit for a refund as part of their “60 day satisfaction guarantee” along with a letter complaining about the reduced number of returns for 2007.

    Nothing but a flippin’ money-grab, IMHO.

  • 5 Steve Heath // Jan 7, 2008 at 8:53 am

    CC - I did the same thing you did, tried Ufile this year for the first time… but you aren’t completely locked into the interview method. I had to answer what categories of things I had, but once I did that, I could use the sidebar on the left to jump to the different forms I had. A different interface, but I think after a few returns I’ll be just as quick as I was with Quicktax.

    Steve.

  • 6 Mike // Jan 7, 2008 at 9:47 am

    Ufile is a solid program. I started using them a few years ago after I realized what was going on at the quicktax camp (increasing prices).

  • 7 Dan // Jan 7, 2008 at 11:11 am

    UFile also has an Online version which costs $15.95 or so per return. Any reason why this was not mentioned? Do most people prefer using the downloaded version of UFile?

  • 8 Canadian Capitalist // Jan 7, 2008 at 12:04 pm

    Dan: I personally don’t like to use the online version due to privacy and security concerns. I usually buy tax software that I can install at home, so I’m focussed on UFile packaged software.

  • 9 nobleea // Jan 7, 2008 at 1:05 pm

    Does the packaged UFile software have room to input stock trades for capital loss/gains? As I recall, Quicktax standard only allowed 10 or so trades and you had to go to quicktax platinum to get more.

  • 10 Ryan // Jan 7, 2008 at 1:09 pm

    I have used the online version of Ufile for the past 4 years and personally prefer it to QuickTax. I like the convenience of logging into it whenever and wherever I am.

    Also, like Steve mentioned, you are not confined to the interview, you can use the menu bar on the left to go to any form you like. The interview is good to set up which forms you will need, and then you can use the side menu bar to go specifically to whatever form you like.

  • 11 Gordo // Jan 7, 2008 at 3:35 pm

    I tried the online version of Ufile (www.ufile.ca) but it put me into the 2006 version of the return !!. Any idea how I get to the 2007 version??

  • 12 Diane // Jan 7, 2008 at 3:54 pm

    Gordo, the ufile.ca site doesn’t have the 2007 forms up yet. That usually happens in January.

    When you login, just below your username and password is a drop-down for the tax year you want to do.

  • 13 Eric // Jan 7, 2008 at 3:57 pm

    It won’t be long before quicktax reduces the number of returns to zero. It will only marginally affect overall sales.

  • 14 Canadian Capitalist // Jan 7, 2008 at 6:29 pm

    Ha Ha Eric. Fortunately, there is plenty of competition in the tax software sector.

    Steve, Ryan: You’re right that the interface is just different and I’ll quickly get used to the “UFile way”. It’s not a big concern anyway.

  • 15 Aleks // Jan 7, 2008 at 7:17 pm

    I used UFile last year and didn’t really have any problem. Since I only do taxes once a year, it usually took a while to find all the things I wanted to fill in even with Quicktax. And like Steve said, I’m pretty sure I was able to by pass the interview after the initial setup.

  • 16 Al Alberda // Jan 8, 2008 at 12:57 am

    Yep, Intuit got greedy. Used quicktax from Zimmers time but this change in price was the last straw. Not easy to see the incremental cost for Ufile what do they charge to go from 8 to 20?

  • 17 Warren // Jan 8, 2008 at 5:01 pm

    I have been using Quicktaxweb for the past few years, but I think I’m going to take the jump to UFile this year (with real software), for reasons mentioned above. Can somebody confirm for me that it will handle my rental plus small business (sole prop) taxes?

    And please tell me I’m able to netfile. The sole prop is new for me this year and I’d hate to lose the ability to file electronically.

  • 18 Canadian Capitalist // Jan 8, 2008 at 6:02 pm

    Warren: Yes, you can NETFILE and you definitely do business income (T2124). You can also add rental income but I’ve never done it before, so can’t be sure if it can handle everything you want to.

  • 19 squawkfox // Jan 9, 2008 at 7:44 pm

    I fired QuickTax this year. The increase in price and decrease in returns just doesn’t sit well with me. Also, I’m tired of the QuickTax nag screens trying to “upgrade/up sell” my license when I enter RRSP or Business information. Done. With. Inuit.

  • 20 Ravi Venkatesh // Jan 10, 2008 at 11:50 pm

    Let me add my plug for Ufile - and unplug(?) for Quicktax!!

    The layout is different in Ufile - but it handles everything I did last 5 years in Quicktax. Investment, rental, self-employment, medical expenses.

    The import from Quicktax was a bit flaky - showed a strange investment loss for 2006 I did not recognize. Also missed a couple of information pieces.

    The results page is neat if you are filing with a spouse, and have children. It displays the spouses’ numbers in two columns side-by-side for comparison. You can decide quickly who to claim childcare under etc., make the change and click Result to come back to see the recalculated figures.

    I ‘returned’ my downloaded Quicktax product when it was clear the product was not functional at all - just an attempt to grab prior users who might, like me, buy because that was the only product we ever considered for years.

    I got the refund from Quicktax today - Yeaaaa.

    For those of you who bought Quicktax - customer service processing your return is very efficient, unlike product support. I highly recommend using their services!!!

  • 21 squawkfox » Are you switching to UFile? // Jan 11, 2008 at 5:02 pm

    [...] to UFile from QuickTax earlier this week. One of my favourite blogs, Canadian Capitalist, posted a UFile 2007 Quick Review last weekend. I’m really interested in how many people are thinking about making this [...]

  • 22 John Barbourt // Jan 12, 2008 at 6:00 pm

    Have been using Tax wiz for the past number of years & they also have been slowly cutting down on the no. of forms you can prepare,but I was satisfied with the format,now they have been bought by Intuit & I will not buy their product because of the no. of returns they have restricted you to this year.Hell will freeze over before I buy their product.Will look at Ufile Plus.

  • 23 Barry // Jan 13, 2008 at 6:37 pm

    Studiotax (which is 100% FREE) is not just for simple returns.

    It can handle pretty much everything. I have business, rental and investment income and have used it with no problems for the last 2 years.

    I highly suggest it.

    I actually do not understand why the Canadian Capitalist has not tried it yet (because I know he knows it exists). A review by someone like him might help others save money. Regardless of the outcome of any review, it is hard to beat FREE.

  • 24 Canadian Capitalist // Jan 13, 2008 at 7:23 pm

    Barry: I’ve actually downloaded StudioTax and plan to write a review shortly. Also on the agenda: a test drive of GenuTax.

  • 25 Barry // Jan 14, 2008 at 10:13 pm

    Nice to hear.

    I look forward to reading your review.

  • 26 Canadian Personal Finance Blog » Blog Archive » Now that I have earned a Million Dollars // Jan 15, 2008 at 10:07 am

    [...] software and start monkeying around with my taxes. Our friend the Canadian Capitalist is looking at Ufile instead of Quicktax this year. Quicktax seems to be cutting the number of possible returns to be done down to TWO (2) [...]

  • 27 Review: StudioTax 2007 // Jan 16, 2008 at 8:01 pm

    [...] and Child care expenses and I think it should easily handle all my tax needs for this year. Since UFile has a satisfaction guarantee and a 60-day full refund guarantee, I’ll take advantage of it [...]

  • 28 Dave // Jan 17, 2008 at 3:16 pm

    I have used QuickTax and its earlier name for 10 years. I like the layout because I am now used to it. That said, this is the year I switch. QuickTax should be getting cheaper as the development is all behind them. I gave a 2006 U-File program a go the other day. I have T5s, T3s, T5013, some rental (most with income splits with spouse) and all worked well. I will also look at GenuTax in early Feb and make my decision. QuickTax standard was the program I used last year but read somewhere that you have to get Platinum to run rental, T3s etc! Is this true? If so another reason to jump ship.

  • 29 Chico // Jan 18, 2008 at 11:15 am

    I have been a Ufile user for the last 3 years. I was originally a Cantax user. You are right about the interview method, it require a little time to get used to. But one feature I like about Ufile is that I can print my final Tax return in pdf format. This allow me to save an electronic copy instead of printing out the whole return. I can also reload the program without having to go back to Ufile for permission.

  • 30 Richard // Jan 19, 2008 at 8:01 pm

    I have used Taxwiz for the past several years, after replacing Cantax. Taxwiz is an intuit product that was discontinued for the 20.00/return new and improved Quicktax. I hope Intuit sales in Canada drop to zero. If this reflects a miss on their Q reporting, well, we know how the american investment community likes to send stocks downward on the slighest miss. Thumbs up for Ufile, but a heads up for anyone doing about a dozen returns. For some unknown reason you can only buy Ufile+ at future (bestbuy)shop. Ufile+allows 20 returns for 30.00

  • 31 Esther // Jan 22, 2008 at 10:53 am

    I quit using QuickTax a number of years ago, when there was a flaw in the installation of the program (a few necessary files were not copied to my hard drive, acknowledged by Intuit to be a flaw in the installation program) and they made me pay $2.99 per minute for a phone call to sort this out.
    I feel this was information that should have been posted on their website.
    Since then, I have used TaxWiz and was happy with it, now it’s no longer available. I will check out Studiotax as mentioned in one of the earlier messages, otherwise I’ll go to U-file. But definitely no QuickTax for me, thank you!
    Esther

  • 32 Bobby // Jan 23, 2008 at 6:33 pm

    AceTax all the way baby! The software Rocks!
    http://www.fredsoft.ca/acetax

  • 33 ufile friend // Jan 28, 2008 at 9:20 pm

    I have used ufile for the past 2 years now and I absolutely love the program. But what I want to know is if they still allow you to process an unlimited number of returns that are under 25,000.

  • 34 taxluddite // Jan 28, 2008 at 11:06 pm

    I have to admit, my experience with Ufile support has left me nicely surprised. Last year, I ran my 2006 return and came up with a slight (<20$) refund. So, I didn’t bother filing my return and only filed for my wife and my mother. Eek! Rev Can asked me last week to file for 2006.

    Since running my original return in UFile last year, my system hard drive crashed and I now have a new machine (although I have the original .u06 UFile tax return on the second drive from the old machine). I have the orginal UFile CDRom but lost the activation key on the disk sleeve, so I couldn’t reactivate the software to retrieve my return.

    I wrote to UFile to see if I could activate the software and surprise! Immediate response the next day and not the usual “you are toast, tough luck” corporate response. After some sensible questions to verify I actually bought the software, boom, here is your activation key.

    I retrieved my return and sent it off to the feds.

    How nice to see personal service and a real human at the other end of the email link.

    Now if I could get this sort of service from some of my corporate clients….

    Good work UFile.

  • 35 yossi // Jan 29, 2008 at 7:52 pm

    I down loaded StodioTax and it seem to be o.k, but it doesn’t have the tax guide in it. Also, in “Statement for farming activities” it does not take me to the calculation page for motor vehicle expenses on line 9819. does any body know why

  • 36 Randy // Feb 1, 2008 at 11:54 am

    I have been using quicktax for years. I usually prepare 20-30 returns a year. I have talked to intuit just about every year about their unreasonable increases in prices via reduced number of returns.

    I may switch to ufile, but I wished I could talk to someone there.

    I want to know how it works for returns under 20 or 25k.

    Do I submit these via the software and count against my limit of eight. Or do I submit them via the internet outside of the software.

    A bit confused on this.

  • 37 ross // Feb 2, 2008 at 6:35 pm

    I used Taxwiz for the past several years to prepare returns for 4 people. After seeing the add for Ufile and reviewing the comments here and on other sites I will be purchasing Ufile this year. The selling point was it would import data from Taxwiz and do 8 returns. After having problems with support on Quicken software ( it wouldn’t import my data on a new computer - yet Microsoft money would ) and now a cash grab for tax returns I have given up on Intuit.

  • 38 Mark // Feb 3, 2008 at 11:08 am

    Randy - On the Future Shop website this is what Ufile had to say about the number of returns:

    Tax Returns: Ufile Personal includes 8 tax returns for returns over $25,000. The CRA has determined that no piece of consumer tax software may generate more than 20 returns, therefore the end user may submit a maximum of 20 tax returns for returns under $25,000, less the quantity of returns over $25,000.

  • 39 Ron // Feb 5, 2008 at 2:07 am

    I have used Quicktax and its predecessor from the beginning of doing taxes on my computer. Each year I have been less happy with Intuit and their price increases and reduction of number of returns permitted. With pension splitting this year, I have returns that once fell under the minimum amount, now registering as one of my counted returns. Rather than purchasing further credit for additional returns with this greedy company I am going to make the switch to Ufile. I hope more people are willing to leave the comfort of a program with which they have become comfortable to show Intuit that consumers can vote with their wallets. Who knows, based on the comments I have read, perhaps the change is long overdue.

  • 40 Don // Feb 9, 2008 at 2:38 pm

    Looking at going to U-File this year but need one question answered .

    With increase in value of Canadian $ vs US $ this year I have a loss (in Canadian funds) on US cash/GIC I hold. That is, on January 1/2007 $10,000 US was worth $13,000 CDN but on Dec 31/07 the same $10,000 US is worth only $10,000 CDN - a loss in Canadian $ of $3,000. Will U-File be able to handle this Foreign Exchange type of loss ?

    Any one know ?

  • 41 Sherry // Feb 16, 2008 at 6:26 pm

    I have been using TaxWix, Quicktax for years. I was very disappointed and annoyed with being able to file only 2 returns over 25k this year. I also have a small business and from what I’ve read so far, I HAVE to purchase the platinum to be able to enter this income is ridiculous.

    I will be switching this year as well and will be spreading the work on what a rip off QT is.

    Sure glad I don’t hold any of their stock!!!

  • 42 Jo // Feb 16, 2008 at 11:58 pm

    Absolute greed! I have been using Quicktax from the beginning and as accustomed as I am to it, I am willing to spend a little time and inconvenience using another program. So far it seems that Ufile may work for me. I’m sure there will be many repeat Quicktax customers in for a shock after they have dowloaded the software and realize it will cost $15 for each return after two that are over $25,000. Last year I had to buy two more returns at $5.00 each which was easier to swallow than the $15. I have always used Standard with rental income. Now they want $59 for the platinum so I can declare rental income - and still I can complete only two returns over $25,000! This year if I use Quicktax, it will cost me $59 for the program, plus I expect to have to complete 9 returns over $25. These changes were certainly not very clear on the package - I don’t think the cost of additional returns is even on the package. I hope everyone who buys one and then realizes the gouging by Quicktax returns it for a refund. I just spoke to a friend of mine who has just bought the Standard and was incredulous when I told her she would only be able to complete two returns and will have to pay $15 for the third one. I have not actually looked at UFile yet. Does it in fact support rental income? How many returns can be completed? I expect to have 18 returns with 9 being over $25,000. Will I be able to Net file? Can I import information from Quicktax 2006 to UFile? Someone in another post suggested completing the returns with Quicktax and then just copying the information on the paper return as it does not count until it is printed or net filed. I would not be surprised if this “loophole” was closed. I don’t mind paying for things or even a reasonable price increase, but Quicktax has been anything but reasonable. (Does anyone know of any programs available in Canada to file U.S. returns? My rental income is from property in U.S. I would appreciate any information).

  • 43 Joanne // Feb 17, 2008 at 10:58 am

    UFile is available in two sizes at Future Shop and Best Buy: Standard with 8 returns and Plus with 16 returns. Additional returns are available at http://www.ufile.ca for $9.99 for 2 and 19.98 for 4. All returns are for any income level.

    Jo, I suggest you get UFile Plus and add 2 returns. This gives you 18 returns with telephone support and a bonus Retirement calculator for a total cost of $40.00.

    UFile has chosen to keep things simple and reasonably priced. All UFile products UFile Standard, UFile Plus and UFile.ca (online) can do literally all kinds of returns including rental properties, small business, capital gains etc. etc.

    All UFile products are NetFile certified (Federal and Quebec) and all can import carryforward information from QuickTax and TaxWiz.

    UFile is the only product offering full optimization including pension splitting for seniors. UFile also makes it easy to transfer tuitions between parents and children and spouses.

    If you wish to try it without paying, go to UFile.ca. You will only be able to see a full return if you pay (or have very low income) but it will show you UFile’s unique way of collecting the data.

    UFile is from a fully Canadian company which has been producing tax software for over 20 years.

    As for US returns, I suggest going to taxcut.com. They have online and downloadable software.

    My apologies for the “infomercial”; there is a lot of misinformation out there.

    I invite readers with more questions about UFile to visit http://www.ufile.ca.

    Joanne Birtch
    VP Marketing
    Dr Tax Software Inc.
    makers of UFile

  • 44 Jo // Feb 17, 2008 at 1:39 pm

    Thank you for the info Joanne. UFile it is. Goodbye Quicktax! I will be informing anyone I come across about Quicktax and the sneaky way they have changed their pricing. Including those who have the Quicktax package in their hands in a store or anyone standing at the display anywhere Quicktax is sold.

  • 45 Sandra // Feb 18, 2008 at 12:04 pm

    I purchased UFile that prepares 8 tax returns, but I am unable to update the files before submitting my returns. The following message appears when I check for updates.”unable to connect to server, please try again” There is’nt anything wrong with my server. Also on my return it states that this version of UFile does not support Netfile, Netfile certification is required. On your site and the CRA site it states that certification was granted. Is there something wrong with my Ufile software. Is anyone having this problem?

  • 46 brad // Feb 18, 2008 at 1:33 pm

    hi sandra,

    sometimes virus protection software prevents newly installed programs from accessing the internet. once you grant access, UFile will be able to update and you will have the latest version that is Netfille certified. if that isn’t the problem i’m sure UFile support will be able to help you out.

    brad

  • 47 Sandra // Feb 18, 2008 at 5:02 pm

    Hi Brad,
    I have Norton anti virus protection on my computer, could this be the problem, would I have to remove it?
    thanks
    Sandra

  • 48 Wilson // Feb 19, 2008 at 10:38 am

    I have used Cantax since day one then moved to QuickTax whne Cantax went “preparer only”.

    When QuickTax moved to “a normal family of four”, I asked them how did they determine four was a family? They had no answer. This year with QuickTax moving to TWO returns I said enough is enough and purchased UFile and will now do my taxes and the kids! When you have mixed families you frequently have more than two kids and I need six returns over the 25k line.

    Intuit can go fly a kite and I hope over the next two years that they taking a huge loss in sales!

    UFile, as long as you don’t get greedy I will support you as I did Cantax!!!!!

  • 49 brad // Feb 19, 2008 at 11:24 am

    hi sandra,

    there is a setting to give internet access to programs you install. the steps for Norton Antivirus 2008 are like this:

    1 Start Norton AntiVirus 2008.
    2 On the Norton AntiVirus tab, click Settings.
    3 Under Web Browsing, click Internet Worm Protection, and then click Configure.
    4 Under How to customize your settings, click Program Control.
    5 Scroll through the list of programs, until you find “Ufile for Windows” .
    6 Change the Access from Block or Custom to Allow.
    7 In the Norton AntiVirus Program Rules window, click OK.
    8 Click OK.

  • 50 Tak // Feb 19, 2008 at 11:48 pm

    Totally agree, that QuickTax is too greedy. few years ago, Quicktax allow 6 returns and two years ago scale back to 5 returns and this year 2007 tax year limit to 2 returns. So I change to Ufile and goodbye Quicktax.
    Further more their “T2 Business Incorporated Quicktax price up 50% this year.

  • 51 Rod // Feb 20, 2008 at 10:11 pm

    I agree that QuickTax is way too greedy. On the other hand, I installed uFile 2007 and had two major problems right away. First, they misprinted the Activation code and dropped the 16th character. OK, they posted the fix on their website (see FAQ). But then I downloaded uFile 2007 update v11.10 (successfully) but it instantly failed to install. So I have sent a query to techsupport (no phone numbers, only email, what’s with that?) but I have to say that this is looking ominous. One more strike and that’s the ballgame for me. I never had technical difficulties with QuickTax, and it’s starting to look like value for money.

  • 52 Gardiner Westbound // Feb 21, 2008 at 8:06 pm

    I have been using tax software to complete family taxes for about two decades including Cantax, Wintax and Quicktax. I completed my 2007 taxes to the extent possible with StudioTax, and had no difficulty whatsoever.

    I bought UFile on the strength of a favorable piece in today’s Toronto Star. I thought I would give it a try. I cannot make head nor tail of it. It wants me to pay roughly $30 more tax than StudioTax calculated, but won’t let me see the forms to figure out the discrepancy.

    It is the most frustrating software I have ever used, bar none. I wrote to the UFile people and told them if the can’t sort it out for me real quick I want to avail myself of the 60-day money back guarantee. Life is way too short for this.

  • 53 Gardiner Westbound // Feb 23, 2008 at 2:35 pm

    I heard back from the UFile help desk.

    It turns out UFile is less adept at importing previous year QuickTax information than the packaging suggests, including CCA and CNIL carry forwards. Users should verify all information has been correctly transferred.

    Newbies and folks who have heart palpitations at the sight of a tax form will love UFile. People accustomed to the forms entry method have a learning curve ahead of them. It does not lend itself to doing taxes piecemeal. It prefers one-shot preparation. Do the interview in sequence. Refrain from jumping around. If “results” won’t display, address the warning messages and try again. Ensure something is entered opposite every red asterisk. Use the directory on the left panel or search function to find specific areas.

    Once you get the hang of it UFile does a really nice job. I have no difficulty recommending it, especially to seniors because it is the only program of this year’s crop that automatically splits pensions in the most advantageous manner.

    Bonus! It’s half the price of QuickTax standard and does four times the number of returns.

  • 54 Traciatim // Feb 23, 2008 at 5:25 pm

    I agree with the last comment about UFile, I was doing my taxes with studio tax, but filled out the same information at cutetax.ca and ufile.ca. As it turns out, studio tax didn’t figure out for itself the transfer of my spouses tuition to me that I would also want to transfer the same amount on the provincial form, UFile figured all that out for me. If it were not for ufile.ca I would probably have paid around 500 bucks more this year in tax (granted, she would have more carry over next year, but better now than later).

    I’m now going to recommend UFile for everyone I know who doesn’t want the challenge of looking over all the forms one item at a time to make sure you’ve checked every box and input all your number manually. UFile’s process is really simple.

  • 55 Vic // Feb 24, 2008 at 12:22 am

    We had been paying about $50-$60 pp to a friend to file our taxes but this year I decided to file taxes myself. After reading all the advise , I think I am going for Ufile. Totally Newbie,, please let me know if there is anything helpful for first timers?
    Question - Ufile has 8 returns, if I file my spouse and I together will that be considered one or two? Also, does 8 returns have to be from my family only or it can be anyone else? like friends

  • 56 Gardiner Westbound // Feb 24, 2008 at 8:22 am

    1. Read the UFile package insert. Use the excellent help and tip screens.

    2. UFile Standard is $19.99 at Future Shop or Best Buy, but inexplicably $29.99 downloaded from UFile.

    3. You and the Mrs. count as two UFile returns. The other six can be anybody. Low income returns are free to a maximum of 20 per license.

    4. UFile can be installed on two computers maximum. Keep your sales receipt in case a computer goes down. You may have to prove you paid for a licensed copy.

    5. Keep a jar of Jack Daniel’s real close. UFile makes it easier, but we’re talkin’ taxes here.

  • 57 Jo // Feb 28, 2008 at 12:23 am

    I have just installed UFile on this computer. I had Quicktax 2006 installed on another computer which is now not connected. I have also just installed Quicktax 2006 on this computer assuming that I would need this in order to import data to UFile 2007. I am having a problem transferring information. (My returns are on floppy disks) Quicktax says that I cannot open any returns until I install updates but the updates are May 07 which is after I had filed all the returns. I tried to import anyway but UFile says the file is not a valid file. Any advice? Otherwise I will just start from scratch with UFile and un-install Quicktax. With the $165 I just saved by going to UFile, it will be a small inconvenience (I do several taxes over $25K and would have to have purchased the platinum Quicktax for rental income) Thanks for any help.

  • 58 Jo // Feb 29, 2008 at 9:30 pm

    I hope Joane Birtch, VP Marketing, Dr. Tax Software Inc. also reads this as she responded to my previous questions (#42,43,44). So far, I am not impressed with UFile Plus. First, I could not transfer Quicktax 2006 data. I sent an E-mail to UFile, but have yet to receive a reply. I decided to complete a new simple return (only one slip). I got through it OK but can’t say I’m crazy about the system. Then when I wanted to view results, I clicked on “3 results” tab, and received a message “loading results….” and nothing happened. I left it about 15 minutes and still nothing. I’m choking as I say this, but I liked Quicktax better. I guess I will have to send another e-mail. Is there a toll free number for UFile? Their package states in the smallest font “long distance charges may apply”. I’m not easily frustrated but UFile is not what I expected. If my issues are not resolved soon, UFile is going back and I may have to eat crow and go back to Quicktax. The money I will have to pay may just outweigh the time wasted on this.

  • 59 Wayne // Mar 1, 2008 at 1:25 am

    I am surprised to learn others feel the same way I do about the Intuit Quicktax cas grab. Down goes the number of returns and up goes the price. I also don’t like the way they are in bed with Norton AV. Several times I’ve bought both with discounts only to find I didn’t dot the i’ s or cross all the Ts and didn’t get the rebate. I have gone to Ufile and avast! antivirus and life is so much less stressful.
    I have found no problem with Ufile ($19.99 at Best Buy) and I do a variety of returns. It did take a couple of nights fooling around to get the hang of it (who reads instructions?) and I would say I can do what needs to be done as well as I could with “That other product”.

  • 60 Perry // Mar 1, 2008 at 10:08 am

    I’m amazed at how soon people are doing their taxes! I wait until I know that most of the software bugs are dealt with by the early birds! (Ok, I’m a procrastinator.)

    What I propose is that we try to guess the date that Intuit will buy out UFile.

    I was a faithful TaxWiz user. When TaxWiz started charging in similar patterns to QuickTax I became suspicious. That’s when I found out that QuickTax had bought out TaxWiz.

    Like Microsoft, QuickTax likes to buy out the competition so they can monopolize the market. Prices increase!

  • 61 Steve // Mar 2, 2008 at 10:30 am

    Not impressed so far!
    I just bought UFile 2007, am trying to install it, and got to where I need to enter the activation key. It says to enter the 16 digit code, but there’s only 15 digits on the back of the cd sleeve. I’m kind of stuck!
    Has anyone else had this problem? Any solutions??

  • 62 Joanne // Mar 2, 2008 at 10:36 am

    Hello Joe,

    I am sorry you are having trouble with UFile. It is a unique and powerful way to do tax returns and like switching any kind of software, there is some re-learning to do.

    UFile will import from your .Q06 file.

    I cannot reply to your stalling problem but as a UFile Plus user you may call our support line the number for which is found under Help.

  • 63 Joanne // Mar 2, 2008 at 10:44 am

    Steve,

    I happened to be writing my email above as you wrote yours. ;-)

    The problem you describe is a printing problem that affected a small production run. Still it is a pain for anyone whose key is missing a digit. Please scroll through this list for the missing character. This solution is also avalable on the UFile for Windows website:

    K37
    K7B
    K8Y
    KBW
    KD8
    KQK
    KR9
    KTP
    KWQ
    KY3

    We are sorry for the inconvenience.

    Joanne Birtch
    VP Marketing
    Dr Tax Software Inc.
    makers of UFile

  • 64 Steve // Mar 2, 2008 at 11:08 am

    Thanks Joanne. But it still doesn’t seem to be enough digits. The last box is looking for 4 digits, but my key (and all the ones up that you give above) only have 3 digits. I can’t go down to the check mark on the bottom of the Activation screen because it won’t hi-light without enough digits. After the final dash, I have KKY on my envelope.

  • 65 Joanne // Mar 2, 2008 at 2:35 pm

    Steve, all our activation keys are 4 digits x 4 for a total of 16. The printing problem is just that the final fourth digit is missing.

    Please send your full activation key to feedback@ufile.ca. We will watch for it and respond asap.

    Thanks,

    joanne

  • 66 Joanne // Mar 2, 2008 at 3:34 pm

    Steve, me again.

    The final digit of your activation code is 3. As in KKY3.

  • 67 mary o'sullivan // Mar 3, 2008 at 11:41 am

    Hi I am a little confused with your system,on ufile this year.Because I have done my taxes before with you and always have received a rebate.But this year I do my taxes and I get told I was receiving a refund of 402.00 dollars on my ufile results and now your saying I am getting nil,so can you please explain to me why I am told one thing about my rebate and then change it on me.Thank you Mary O’Sullivan.

  • 68 David // Mar 3, 2008 at 8:31 pm

    My G-D! Doesn’t U-file have it’s own help desk or website? I think CC should be charging consulting rates for the provision of a HelpDesk!

    DAvid

  • 69 Yefei // Mar 4, 2008 at 10:20 pm

    Hi there, same 15-digit problem here, my last three digits are KKT, what is the 4th letter?

    Please make sure that your software gets out in proper shape next time. It is frustrating.

    Thanks anyways

  • 70 Jo // Mar 5, 2008 at 12:54 am

    Just an update on my previous entry (#58). UFile did respond by e-mail. I was advised to un-install and then was given a link to re-install, which I did. Now I’m able to transfer 2006 Quicktax data to UFile and the issue of “…loading” and nothing happening was also resolved. I completed and netfiled my first return (15 to go) and it went through without a hitch. I will now definitely recommend UFile. Actually, I was in a store today and a woman had just put a Platinum Quicktax in her cart. I asked her if she was aware that she could only file two returns over $25000 and additions would cost $15. She was shocked. I mentioned that I had switched to UFile for that reason and she asked where she could get UFile so I told her. She put back the Quicktax. I will be watching for anyone picking up Quicktax in any store and if they are interested, inform them of what they may be getting into and offer an alternative.

  • 71 Traciatim // Mar 5, 2008 at 7:11 am

    Yefei, as shown in the chart above if it ends in KT then the last digit will be P. If that doesn’t work out why not e-mail the U-File folks rather than an unassociated blog?

    http://ufile.ca/windows/Help/contactform.asp

  • 72 WordPress Guru // Mar 5, 2008 at 6:54 pm

    I tried Ufile.ca to calculate my refund, it did not gave me an oppurntunity to enter employment expenses under the head of salaried employees.

    I am looking forward to find how much would be my returns if I add 10% of my house rent, electricity and internet charges.

  • 73 Me // Mar 7, 2008 at 11:28 pm

    Just a little note that I thought I was ready to Netfile my tax today on Ufile online edition….paid by visa, then downloaded tax files so I could have a look at them…….found that my property taxes in Ontario Credits were entered twice for some reason (I had just one form entered thru interview process), causing a double credit for this. I’ve sent email to help line and hopefully they will get sorted out.

  • 74 Darlene // Mar 8, 2008 at 10:47 am

    Love Ufile. Been using the internet process for 7 years. Could not be bothered to buy the package and download. I may pay a little bit more by not purchasing the downloaded version, but I feel the free tax forms for my children is worth a few dollars just to keep Ufile from increasing the price.
    Keep it up, Ufile!

  • 75 Steve // Mar 10, 2008 at 6:58 pm

    Can anyone tell me if Ufile at $19.99 at FutureShop (FS) can produce returns for individuals with income less than $25,000 for free (not be counted) like it did in 2006?
    The FS website says about Ufile at $20,
    I quote “Tax Returns: Ufile Personal includes 8 tax returns for returns over $25,000. The CRA has determined that no piece of consumer tax software may generate more than 20 returns, therefore the end user may submit a maximum of 20 tax returns for returns under $25,000, less the quantity of returns over $25,000.

  • 76 Which Tax Software? // Mar 11, 2008 at 8:13 am

    [...] UFile is significantly cheaper ($19.99 at Future Shop or Best Buy) than QuickTax Standard but you’ll have to put up with the [...]

  • 77 Me // Mar 12, 2008 at 1:01 pm

    Today is March 12th……5 days since I sent email to Help Desk for Ufile Online. No reply as yet. I have also sent two “other” emails to general contact address to advise of my concern and update them as to what I have tried to correct on my own. Something is wrong with their software and it’s preventing us from Netfiling our income tax. It is still showing two entries in actual Provincial Tax Credit form for property tax credit (in my husband’s return), even though I only entered once. I deleted the entire return for my husband a little while ago, and re-entered all of the information. It is still showing that extra line. I AM GETTING CONCERNED! WHY DON’T THEY AT LEAST RESPOND SAYING THEY HAVE REC’D MY EMAIL AND I CAN EXPECT AN ANSWER IN “X” NUMBER OF DAYS??? I have been using Ufile Online for many years now (with no problems) and have recommended the program to many others (some have used online service; some have purchased the software). I have used their services in good faith, and have paid for that service. I can’t find a phone number to contact them so I can talk to a real person. I did call DrTax (who own Ufile) help line but they informed me that the only way I can communicate with Ufile Online is by email. Is this going to be the last year I use Ufile (there are lots of alternatives)?? Be assured that, if I don’t get satisfaction from Ufile Online, I will be loudly broadcasting my problems to everyone I know.

  • 78 Canadian Capitalist // Mar 12, 2008 at 1:17 pm

    Me: UFile doesn’t offer phone support and my experience with them is that their email response is very slow. I sent an email on March 4th and got a response on March 10th. That’s not fast enough in my opinion.

  • 79 Eric // Mar 12, 2008 at 9:12 pm

    I am having the same problem as Sandra, ubxupdater.exe is unable to connect to the server.

    1) Disabling Windows Firewall did not help.

    2) Adding all UFile2007 .exe files to the exception list of Windows Firewall did not help either.

    Is anyone else encountering these problems?

    Thanks

  • 80 Mary // Mar 14, 2008 at 11:10 am

    Hi Eric,

    You can download the latest version of UFile if you are having problems configurating your firewall.

    http://www.ufile.ca/download/UF2007AR956XCED4Z3RF/Ufile2007.exe

    UFile keeps this link to the latest version. If you cannot get around your issue to save some headache use the link.

  • 81 Me // Mar 14, 2008 at 4:11 pm

    Ufile responded today……….one week since I emailed them. Someone is lazy and isn’t looking at the actual tax forms! I have told them that the information in the interview section appears to be correct, from what I can see, but it’s the actual tax form On 479 that has the error:

    “Thank you for contacting UFile Support.

    You property tax credits reported only once on Schedule On 479. You will find it in Tax return section of Robert Flint.

    If you have any further questions, please contact me by replying to this e-mail.

    Regards,
    Olga U on behalf of the UFile Team

    UFile.ca
    File Online On Time.”

    I have replied again today, with a pasted copy of the actual form, spelling out what information should and should not be there. I AM FRUSTRATED!!!! Pretty soon I think I will just have to refile, using another program and just accept that I paid Ufile and didn’t get anything for my money.

  • 82 Mary // Mar 14, 2008 at 6:27 pm

    Me,

    Are you sure you didn’t enter it once under yourself and then again under your spouse? If it is doubling you might be entering it twice. The program only calculates what you enter. See if this is your case.

  • 83 Dana // Mar 15, 2008 at 9:44 am

    About to start my taxes. I, like many consumers, am frustrated with QuickTax’s quick grab for extra cash that sounds almost like one of the new 7 deadly sins described by the Catholic Church.
    I must admit Joanne’s comments from Ufile helped make me decide to give it a try. I do a relativly complex tax return: 3 adult returns over 25k, 2 children returns, contract income, rental income, dividends and pension income, tuition fees etc.
    I’ll let you know how I make out.

  • 84 Me // Mar 16, 2008 at 7:01 pm

    Thanks Mary for trying to help. No, I didn’t enter the property tax info in my own return as well as my husband’s. I knew before I started entering info for 2007 that he would have to claim all of tax credits as he is over 65. I have no idea what Ufile Online was doing and, as I said earlier, I keep getting stupid comments from the Help Desk:

    1. Mar.14/08 - 11:52 a.m. - “You [sic] property tax credits reported only once on Schedule On479″ (basically saying there was no problem–that was not true….I sent them a screen capture of the that page to show them as they obviously weren’t looking)
    2. Mar.14/08 - 6:46 pm - “We reviewed your file, and noticed that there is a double entry of the property taxes in your file. … In order to rectify your situation, please remove the residence tax credit claim in either yours or your spouse’s Interview…” (Not true………I sent them a screen capture of the particular interview pages to show that there was nothing entered in my return after the Interview Setup……..Ufile wouldn’t let me go anywhere after that point….I had no income except the split pension income generated automatically by MaxBack)… and property tax was only entered in my husband’s return
    3. Mar.16/08 - 3:35 pm - “Since the misunderstanding has been identified and corrected have you since filed your return? ” (Didn’t they read my last email….the problem is not corrected……..it is still showing only one entry of property tax information in the Interview Section…in my husband’s return and not in mine…but a double entry in On479).

    I wanted to scream! It was obvious that I was going to continue to get stupid stuff like this, and no real help, as I couldn’t actually talk to anyone. So I should either give up as it was obvious they weren’t going to refund my money (which I had asked for twice) or I would just have to keep playing around until I came up with the solution on my own. So I knew that I had deleted hubby’s return once (left mine as is) and re-entered his and that didn’t work……same errors showing. So today I suddenly thought of something else to try. Every year since I started using Ufile, it has been me who has been the principle income earner and claiming all tax credits so, automatically, Ufile opened up with my name on top and no option to delete my file. But for 2007, it was my hubby who was principle income earner. So I deleted his file again and changed all of my return information to his return information, then added myself in again as an additional family member (spouse) and re-entered my return information. Guess what! It worked. At least, it appears to. I haven’t netfiled the returns yet, but I have looked them over fully and printed them off and everything appears to be fine. I can pretty well guarantee I will not be using Ufile next year. It would be nice if someone else in a similar tax situation as us and having similar problems might benefit from this solution I came up with.

  • 85 Andrew // Mar 19, 2008 at 10:50 am

    I also thought that I would try UFILE. Tested the online version after completeing a simple return using StudioTax.
    I found a calculation error involving T3 box 34 (Foreign N0n-Bus Income Tax Paid) reported from a mutual fund.
    Instead of reflecting the amount in the Provincial Tax calculations a deduction was entered on line 232 (other deductions. ) This results in a double deduction of Federal Amount. I reported this to UFILE but no response since last Saturday.

  • 86 Canadian Capitalist // Mar 19, 2008 at 1:44 pm

    We received the following email from Marlene and post it here with permission:

    I tried Ufile for the first time after reading your review. I have never been as frustrated doing taxes even when I did them without a program. The only way you can contact them about a problem is through e-mail and then they don’t respond.

    I will never purchase this program again I’ll stick with Quick tax as it easier to understand and use and their help if you have any questions is much quicker.

    I submitted my question to Ufile on Sunday it is now Monday evening and I still haven’t heard back.

  • 87 Cherry // Mar 22, 2008 at 7:55 pm

    Last year I had a problem, but not the same as Andrew’s, with foreign non-business tax paid - UFile would not allow foreign tax credit for the total amount paid, which it should have done according to the formula on the T2209. All I got from my e-mail enquiry was useless advice; the person answering just couldn’t understand what I was getting at. I later came upon a worksheet in the programme showing that it disallowed any tax deducted that was over 10% or 15% (depending on something-or-other) of an individual item of income. Using CRA’s formula, QuickTax gave me full credit for the amount paid, and as far as I could tell, after studying CRA’s bulletin IT 270 till I was nearly cross-eyed, this was correct. I filed with QuickTax.
    This year I’m comparing QuickTax (I got the Basic version, which DOES have all the forms, despite QT’s advertising) , UFile and Studio Tax. All except the two QT returns I shall Netfile with StudioTax. UFile has its continuing problem with foreign tax credits, and I find it slow and annoying in other ways as well.

  • 88 Mohammad Hemati // Mar 23, 2008 at 5:48 pm

    Please intrduce to me a good software for unlimited return not like quick tax which is limited to just 2 over $25000 which made me so unhappy this year

  • 89 Cliff // Mar 28, 2008 at 11:27 am

    Ufile only gives a 15% credit on donations even though the paper return clearly states 15.5%. I don’t know how that one was missed. Only the government benifits on that mistake!

  • 90 Canadian Capitalist // Mar 28, 2008 at 12:00 pm

    Cliff: Are you sure you have the correct 2007 tax package? The CRA form for Ontario (see Schedule 9 link below) shows the credit as 15%:

    Link

  • 91 Irene // Mar 28, 2008 at 7:24 pm

    Do you know if my husband can claim for his apprenticeship tools? We went to someone last year and she did it, but we’re going to do it outselves this year… Have used UFile before and found if fine… Just wondering about apprenticeship tools…

  • 92 RONALD MOUNT // Mar 30, 2008 at 2:24 pm

    UFILE-CANNOT GET PAGE 4 TO PRINT IN EITHER MY OR MY WIFE’S FORM. EITHER DIRECTLY OR IN THE PDF FORM, SPOOLING OR DIRECTLY TO PRINTER. I CAN SEE THEM BUT IT WILL ONLY PRINT A FEW LINES AND THEN QUITS WITHOUT ANY WARNINGS ETC. I COULD PAPER THE WALLS WITH CAST OFF PAPER! UFILE HAS NOT RESPONDED TO MY EMAIL, DON’T EVEN KNOW IT IT REALLY WENT THERE. IF I USE SCREEN CAPTURE AND TRIP IT THE PRINT IS JUST NOT AS CLEAR AS I WOULD LIKE FOR SENDING IN AND I DO NOT KNOW IF EFILE WOULD HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AT THEIR END……

  • 93 RONALD MOUNT // Mar 30, 2008 at 10:07 pm

    FOLLOW UP ON THE ABOVE, I COULD PRINT PAGE 4 IN PDF ON ANOTHER COMPUTER. THIS WANTED TO UPDATE ADOBE WHICH I DENIED. HOME AGAIN I TRIED REMOVING ADOBE 8.1 AND INSTALLED VERSION 7, STILL NO GOOD, REMOVED THIS AND INSTALLED ADOBE READER 6 AND IT WORKED. I WILL NEVER UNDERSTAND THE IDIOSYNCRYSIES OF COMPUTERS!

  • 94 Randy // Mar 31, 2008 at 3:42 am

    Hi
    I filed with ufile.ca for 2004, 2005 and 2006, using the downloaded software on my laptop. I want to file online this year but I cannot see how to have it look at my 2006 return and recognize all the carry forwards and basic data. Is there a way to do this? Or do I need to enter everythign again. I would expect it to work because you can upload from QuickTax, etc.

    Any help appreciated!

  • 95 Cliff // Mar 31, 2008 at 11:35 am

    C.C. My appologies as I did not have the REVISED portion of schedule 9. Went to Post Office and to my surprise came with pick up package.

  • 96 Jean Vaucher // Apr 1, 2008 at 10:59 pm

    After reading the comments on this site and reviews elsewhere, I thought I had found an alternative to Quicktax which I’ve been using for almost 10 years. On a MAC, the Quicktax interface seemed was awkward and the web versions was an improvement; but the interaction was always mysterious and I never felt confident that I wasn’t forgetting to do something important. In contrast, the UFile interface is much better and, when it works, error messages are quite good… BUT it doesn’t always work.
    I started up from my Quicktax “q06″ file from last year and spend about a week entering data for myself and my wife, including quite a few T3/T5 slips and capital gains, then I went on to the RESULTS stage only to be told: “No return has been generated for this family member”. No error messages, nothing… So here I’m stuck with all my data entered and no results and no clue as to what I should do to get results.
    Sadly I will go back to QuickTax.

  • 97 Paul // Apr 2, 2008 at 7:22 pm

    I am having a problem with my activation key. All 16 digits are printed on the envelope but the software will not accept it. I have even tried variations just in case the printing of 8’s and B’s or 0’s or O’s are not clear. Any thoughts? I have sent an email to Ufile but as written above they do not respond to quickly.

  • 98 Paul // Apr 2, 2008 at 8:34 pm

    Was able to figure it out apparently it was not an 8 it was an S, it would be nice if they used larger print to prevent bleeding of the ink.

  • 99 ufile // Apr 3, 2008 at 9:53 pm

    [...] QuickTax, especially considering …http://www.squawkfox.com/2008/01/13/review-ufile-standard-2007/Quick Review: UFile 2007… this year, I decided to try out ufile for filing our 2007 tax returns instead. … ufile uses [...]

  • 100 frustrated // Apr 7, 2008 at 11:22 am

    I thought the Ufile can file 8 returns over $20000, but unlimited for the low income. Apparently, it only works for 8 returns regardless amount of income. Why they don’t clarify that in the box?

  • 101 frustrated // Apr 7, 2008 at 11:38 am

    Amazed by Ufile’s support. No contact number to call, but an email account to send. I have email them yesterday for a quick question. Still didn’t see any response yet. Hope they will respond by April 30.

  • 102 Canadian Capitalist // Apr 9, 2008 at 10:12 pm

    frustrated: UFile’s email response was slow even in March. They do offer a 60-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied.

  • 103 John // Apr 15, 2008 at 12:05 am

    I left a long and clever message but Canadian Capitalist lost is due to unclear required fields.
    Suffice it to say, I am another really angry ex Intuit customers switching to Ufile even though I hate the interview method.

  • 104 Edwin // Apr 15, 2008 at 6:15 pm

    I tried both quicktax and ufile for the first time this year (previously I had the benefit of using professional tax software).

    QT online -
    + got the job done
    - interview method was annoying
    - cost was high ($20 for one return)

    QT software
    +very easy to use
    + powerful; loved the instant tax status bar
    + easy pdf return creation; netfile process
    - disliked the 2 returns over $25k limit

    Ufile
    +cheap(er) - bought at futureshop
    + liked the 8 return licenses
    - disliked the counterintuitive interface

    I think its telling that I would go back to QT to prepare “free” returns; instead of going thru the ufile pain. I feel that paying more for quality is worth it.

  • 105 owen // Apr 19, 2008 at 4:28 pm

    I used ufile online for the past few years. But today when I try to login, it’s always in the status of “Loading… Family names, Title bar, table of contents” (see the attachment of screen copy). What’s wrong with it ? Can anyone help me fix it ?

  • 106 Brad // Apr 20, 2008 at 11:39 am

    owen you may want clear your cache and try again, I have no such problem.

    http://www.cibc.com/ca/legal/clear-browsers-cache.html

  • 107 lc1983 // Apr 20, 2008 at 2:06 pm

    UFile 2007 seems to work fine, so I’m glad I switched. The Intuit explanation at their website was just a round-a-bout way of saying they thought they could squeeze some more revenue.

    As for boosting their revenue this year, I’m thinking Intuit should be more concerned about kissing goodbye the revenue stream from us for the next 20+ years. If UFile keeps producing a quality product at a competitive price, then me thinks they’ll get the revenue.

    Of course I’m assuming Intuit doesn’t own UFile. If they do, then it’s just an exercise in customer segmentation based on price sensitivity. If that’s the case, then I’ll look elsewhere for next year.

  • 108 kevin // Apr 20, 2008 at 3:58 pm

    UFile.ca is 100% owned and operated by Dr Tax Software Inc. a canadian tax software developer with no affiliation to Intuit.

    UFile was developed by Dr Tax Software Inc., Canada’s leader in providing software to chartered accountants, certified general accountants and other tax specialists for over a decade. The same calculation engine that powers UFile has been used by these tax experts to file millions of Canadian tax returns.

  • 109 Canadian Capitalist // Apr 22, 2008 at 12:29 pm

    Email comment from L:

    I transferred a 2006 Quicktax file into 2007 Ufile Plus. UFile took the unused federal education amounts from Quicktax but not the unused provincial education amounts. Has anyone experienced this problem?

  • 110 Cherry // Apr 22, 2008 at 6:21 pm

    I’ve been comparing UFile, Quicktax and Studio Tax. Quicktax and Studio Tax both okayed my return for Netfiling, but UFile didn’t, for two reasons:
    1. ” Please review your T5013/T5013A data entry. The gross income is entered but the net income information(boxes 20,21, 22 or 23) is not entered”. Not all my slips have amounts in these boxes, so what was I supposed to do?
    2. “You are claiming a loss on line 122 or line 126 derived from a T5013 or T5013A slip, but have not entered an amount for box 24″. Likewise, I have no box 24 amounts.
    I contacted UFile support and for the first problem was told to enter zero in box 20 - who’d have guessed that zero would be counted as a number? and this worked to get rid of the first message. So I tried entering zero in box 24 as well, hoping to get rid of the second message, but it made no difference. So I Netfiled with Studio Tax, no problems.
    UFile had yet another reason why I couldn’t use it to Netfile:
    “You are reporting more than six business schedules, T777 and TL2 statements”.
    I couldn’t get around this one - I have ten T5013s and I suppose those are the more-than-six business schedules referred to.
    UFile support suggests I send the whole file for review - but there’s no point now. My return has already been filed.

  • 111 Frustrated // Apr 28, 2008 at 8:28 pm

    Well Ufile has serious problems this year. It locks up the computer so serverely that I have to reboot the box to regain control over it. Had no problem with Ufile last year. Will be seeking a refund.

  • 112 Andy // Apr 29, 2008 at 7:12 am

    Guys, just wondering, i have to file from 2002 to 2007. Would it be any cheaper if i use ufile for all of it?

  • 113 Jo // Apr 30, 2008 at 9:36 pm

    Just finished the 16th return on Ufile Plus. There did not seem to be any serious glitches on the first 15, but now it kept refunding the max. CPP contribution of $1989.90 stating it was an overpayment. This was for a friend who is 65 and receiving CPP survivors benefits and still working but NOT receiving CPP retirement benefits. The program calculated an amount owing of only $137 instead of $2126.90 because it calculated the CPP contribution as an overpayment even though she had maximum earnings. I must admit I much preferred working with Quicktax versus UFile. There is much room for improvement for UFile. Hopefully next year UFile will be improved or Quicktax will become more consumer conscious in their pricing.

  • 114 Kevin // Jan 30, 2009 at 5:24 am

    It seems like, H&R Block, UFile, QuickTax online now are pretty much same, while QuickTax online seems to have the lowest price.

  • 115 Allan John // Feb 27, 2009 at 10:41 am

    Ufile works great for simple returns. Anything other than a simple return, DO NOT use Ufile. their customer support sucks as I have been waiting days for an answer for a wrong calculation done by the software. Quicktax was used instead and everything is all good.

  • 116 Scott // Mar 10, 2009 at 11:08 pm

    Help. I have used U-file for a few years now, very satisfyingly. For 2008 we have more than 6 rental properties. And U-file is not allowing me more than 6. I understand CRA’s limitation that you cannot submit your tax return via Netfile if your return produces more than 6 financial statements. But there should not be a limit on the tax preparation software itself. I should be able to enter 100 properties. Then I have to print the return and mail it the old fashioned way. Anyone know if this is a normal limit with U-file? Is this new? Has it always been there? Is there a way around it? Help!!

  • 117 Nick // Mar 20, 2009 at 7:22 pm

    I’m using ufile for the first time. I’m having problems getting CCA deducted from rental income. It doesn’t seem to work since the rental icome remains as if I didn’t apply CCA. Anyone try using CCA with success?
    The package also states that it will do capital loss carry back but can’t find a form to do it.

  • 118 Jo // Mar 24, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    I used UFile last year. Seemed OK. Now I have been having a problem with the UFile Icon. Every file I have saved for 2008, shows up with a 2007 Ufile Icon above it. My files are saved as “Name 07″ or “Name 08″. However they all show the same Icon so it makes it difficult to readily distinguish between them. I have been going back and forth with UFile. It took three e-mails before they finally understood my problem (I think). I have just uninstalled and re-installed the progam they sent online. Still the problem persists. Now I’m not sure I made the right decision to switch over from Quicktax except for the principle and cheaper program. Anyone have the same problem?

  • 119 Bob // Mar 26, 2009 at 3:51 pm

    Nick you can carryback losses by selecting “Losses and carrybacks” from the interview setup - followed by

    losses and carrybacks -> Carryback of a loss which occurred in 2008.

    you should see it right between other deductions and refund or balance due.

    As for CCA, You cannot use CCA to create or increase a rental loss, perhaps you have a rental loss and not a gain?

    see the following - limits on claiming CCA section
    http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pub/tg/t4036/t4036-e.html#P568_54469

  • 120 janet // Apr 26, 2009 at 1:55 am

    It’s been impossible to netfile with Ufile 2008….on one computer it blocked Explorer, and after I installed it on my son’s computer, it won’t download any updates! I’ve had to use System Restore on my computer and it’s removed Ufile and is finally able to connect to the Internet. It’s been completely frustrating, and Ufile’s customer service absolutely stinks! Too bad - the program is easy to follow but I won’t use Ufile again.

  • 121 Bayer // May 4, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    We bought UFile and we are not having a good time. First off, they’re slow to return the requests, they don’t have a phone number to call. Anyways, my question is how I should go with the fiscal year thing. I have a rental propertyI bought in October 2007 and another one I bought in May 2008. But whatever option we choose, it gives an error message. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

    Yours truly,

    Bayer

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