Apps: Manage your money and file taxes

Mobile applications for smartphones and tablet devices can help you manage your money year-round to make tax time less consuming, file your taxes right from your device, or track down your refund status wherever you travel.

TurboTax SnapTax
(iPhone, iPod Touch, Android; free with subscription)
Designed for taxpayers who don't want to spend too much time with an accountant or in front of a computer in the early days of spring, TurboTax SnapTax is, well, a snap. Simply take a photograph of your W-2, upload it to the app, and you are just about done. Note that the app only accommodates the simplest of tax returns and won't help you if you have children or other dependents, own a home or make more than $100,000 annually. TurboTax SnapTax also tracks the status of your return and has a tool that will estimate your tax refund.

IRS2Go
(iPhone, iPod Touch, Android; free)
While some may find the idea of being joined at the hip with the IRS to be disconcerting, this official app developed by the Internal Revenue Service brings you tax tips and rules directly from the source. Not sure if that business lunch you had last month is worthy of a write-off, or how to factor in gas and commuting mileage information into your filings? This app has all the answers and is designed to keep you honest. And, of course, you can tap into this app to check on the status of your refund check.

Mint.com Personal Finance
(iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android; free)
Every year, I make an April 14 resolution to keep my accounting and finances in order year-round. That way, I won't have to spend several hours on a beautiful, early spring weekend doing taxes. The one app that has a chance of keeping me financially organized for any length of time is Mint.com Personal Finance. This advertising-supported app tracks your bank and credit-card accounts all in one place. If you file personal and business taxes, Mint.com is really helpful in tracking your accounts separately. The app also includes the option of push notifications for major transactions and questionable fees, and it will advise you when you are spending more than what you budgeted on certain expenses like fast food and bank fees.

H&R Block Mobile
(iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android; free)
If you are loyal to H&R Block, or just want some free and easy tax advice as you put all of your information together, this app is nice to have in your pocket. Get answers to any tax-related questions on-the-go, match your progress against a checklist, and even use the app to make a tax appointment and find an H&R Block location near you. And who doesn't want a comprehensive tax glossary wherever they travel? Like SnapTax, this app also helps you track the status of your federal refund.

Shoeboxed Receipt Tracker and Receipt Reader
(iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android; free)
Throw out your receipt shoe box and exchange it for this free app, which allows you to take pictures of receipts with your smartphone or tablet and file them for review later.

Reports from Appolicious.com and Tribune Media Services were used in this review.