File your taxes accurately and maximize your refund. We've tested the leading tax software to help you find the best option for your situation.
TurboTax remains the most polished tax software with the best user experience, though it comes at a premium. For simple returns, free options like Cash App Taxes are hard to beat. H&R Block offers the best balance of features and price.
The gold standard in tax preparation software
Use the tax software fee calculator and tax refund estimator before comparing federal, state, live-help and refund-payment costs.
Professional-grade software with in-person backup
Affordable alternative with solid features
Free federal filing for all tax situations
100% free tax filing with no catches
Budget-friendly with military discount
Online filing with Walmart office access
Franchise tax prep with online option
Straightforward online tax filing
Bare-bones free federal filing
| Software | Starting Price | Free Filing | State Filing | Audit Support | Import | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 TurboTax | $0-$129 | Yes | $49/state | Yes | Excellent | 9.3 |
| #2 H&R Block | $0-$85 | Yes | $37/state | Yes | Good | 9.0 |
| #3 TaxAct | $0-$70 | Yes | $40/state | Yes | Good | 8.5 |
| #4 FreeTaxUSA | Free | Yes | $15/state | No | Basic | 8.3 |
| #5 Cash App Taxes | Free | Yes | Free | No | Basic | 8.0 |
| #6 TaxSlayer | $0-$48 | Yes | $39/state | Yes | Good | 7.8 |
| #7 Jackson Hewitt | $25-$65 | No | $37/state | Yes | Basic | 7.5 |
| #8 Liberty Tax | $0-$85 | Yes | $45/state | Yes | Basic | 7.2 |
| #9 eFile.com | $0-$46 | Yes | $28/state | No | Basic | 7.0 |
| #10 OLT Online Taxes | Free | Yes | $10/state | No | None | 6.8 |
Consider your tax situation complexity (W-2 only vs. self-employed), budget (free to $130+), state filing needs, and whether you want expert access. If you have a simple return, start with free options first.
Yes, several tax software options offer free filing for simple returns (W-2 income, standard deduction). TurboTax, H&R Block, and Cash App Taxes all have free tiers, though eligibility varies.
Consider a tax professional if you have complex situations like business ownership, rental properties, significant investments, or multi-state filing. Software handles most standard returns well.
At minimum, you'll need W-2s from employers, 1099s for freelance/investment income, Social Security numbers, and records of deductions. Most tax software guides you through what's needed.
Use the Tax Software Form Support Checklist to organize this decision locally before comparing providers or products.
Choosing between free tax software, paid DIY filing and pro help? Use the Tax Software Free vs Paid Decision Quiz to organize the decision locally before comparing providers, fees or official terms.
Before choosing, use the Cash App Taxes free filing eligibility checklist and the Marcus APY drop impact calculator where relevant. Both run in your browser and preserve official-verification caveats.
Use the Cash App Taxes State Filing Support Checklist to organize verification steps locally before comparing or acting.