Should I Prepare My Own Taxes?

Dear Lifehacker,
Now that tax forms are starting to flood my mailbox, I'm trying to figure out if I should do my own taxes again this year. I'm comfortable using tax prep software online, but it's kind of tedious and time consuming. I've come to a point where I'm not sure if I would benefit more by going to a professional. Please help me decide!
Thanks,
Taxed About Taxes

Dear Taxed,
Ah, tax season. Between now and April 17th (the extended filing deadline for 2012), we can all look forward to the flurry of tax documents and ads for tax software and services promising fast and easy filing for everyone. Tax software does make do-it-yourself filing easier, but as you mentioned, it's not entirely a breeze and there are definitely reasons why you might want to hire a professional to do your taxes for you. It's good that you're thinking about this now, so you'll have time to look for an accountant, CPA, or other registered tax preparer before the really busy parts of tax season, if you should decide to go that route. Let's take a look at if it makes sense for you to keep doing your own taxes or if it's time to hand over the reins.