7
Best Tax Software
Featured Partner
Best Tax Software for the Self-Employed
TaxSlayer Self-Employed
Federal Filing Fee
$72.95
State Filing Fee
$47.95
$72.95
$47.95
Best Online Tax Software Providers
TaxSlayer Premium
BEST TAX SOFTWARE FOR CUSTOMER SUPPORT
TaxSlayer Premium
Federal Filing Fee
$62.95
State Filing Fee
$47.95
$62.95
$47.95
Why We Like It
Filing taxes can be a headache, but good customer support can make all the difference. That’s why we picked this platform as the best for customer service—it goes beyond basic FAQs and actually puts real humans in your corner.
Priority support lets you skip the dreaded customer service queue with faster phone and email response times. If you need help in real time, live chat is available for quick troubleshooting.
Got a tax question that Google can’t answer? Ask a Tax Pro gives you unlimited one-on-one guidance from a certified expert who can walk you through even the trickiest deductions. And if the IRS comes knocking, IRS Audit Assistance has your back for up to three years after your return is accepted, with certified tax pros ready to help.
Bottom line: If you want tax software that won’t leave you on hold when it matters most, this is your best bet.
What We Don’t Like
Free tax assistance is available only with TaxSlayer’s Premium and Self-Employed editions.
Who It’s Best For
This tax solution is best for freelancers, self-employed individuals and anyone with a complex return who wants expert guidance. With priority support and access to a tax pro, it offers help navigating deductions, audits and tricky tax situations. It is ideal for those who prefer real human assistance over guesswork.
- Offers strong customer support via phone, chat and email and from tax pros.
- TaxSlayer Premium offers assistance from a tax expert without an additional cost.
- Free tax assistance is available only with TaxSlayer’s Premium and Self-Employed editions.
- State tax filing fees are nearly as high as federal filing costs, making it less economical for those filing in multiple states.
Cash App Taxes
BEST FREE TAX SOFTWARE
Cash App Taxes
Federal Filing Fee
$0
State Filing Fee
$0
$0
$0
Why We Like It
Cash App Taxes is one of the few tax filing platforms that’s actually free—no hidden fees, no surprise upgrades. You can file both federal and state returns for $0, even if you have gig work, self-employment income, stocks or crypto. But there’s a trade-off: It’s best for independent filers comfortable navigating tax forms without much guidance. Live support is minimal, and most tax information has to be entered manually.
That said, the platform keeps things simple. You can snap a pic of your W-2 to autofill some details, and step-by-step instructions help guide you through. It also comes with free audit defense and an accurate calculations guarantee. If another service gets you a bigger refund, Cash App will pay you up to $100 of the difference.
Cash App Taxes delivers if you’re comfortable filing independently and want a free option without the usual fine print.
What We Don’t Like
Cash App Taxes has limited support—no phone help, just email. If your taxes are complicated, you’re on your own. Plus, it only lets you file in one state, so if you need multiple state returns, look elsewhere.
Who It’s Best For
Cash App Taxes work best for simple tax returns (with a W-2 and a couple of common deductions, like student loan interest). It’s a strong choice if you’re seeking tax software that is completely free and won’t hit you with surprise fees. It’s also quick and easy to use.
- It’s free for federal and state returns, regardless of their complexity.
- It supports gig work, self-employment, stocks, and crypto.
- You can snap a W-2 photo using your phone for autofill.
- Free audit defense and refund guarantee.
- You can’t file multiple state tax returns with Cash App Taxes; it supports tax filing for only one state.
- Cash App Taxes doesn’t provide phone support.
- You must download the Cash App app to file.
Jackson Hewitt Online
BEST TAX SOFTWARE FOR VALUE
Jackson Hewitt Online
Federal Filing Fee
$25
DIY E-file ($25)
Easy step-by-step filing, live chat support, auto error checks, W-2 import
Pro tax prep (From $49 for first-time customers)
Expert tax help for first-time and returning customers. Prices vary by location
$25
Easy step-by-step filing, live chat support, auto error checks, W-2 import
Expert tax help for first-time and returning customers. Prices vary by location
Why We Like It
Jackson Hewitt keeps things simple with two filing options: a $25 flat-fee DIY e-file with no hidden costs, even for complex returns, and professional tax prep starting at $49 for first-time customers. Unlike competitors, there are no surprise upgrades, and you can file multiple state returns at no extra charge. Its user-friendly platform makes filing easy, with live chat and email support. For those who prefer in-person help, tax professionals are available at over 5,200 locations, including many Walmarts.
What We Don’t Like
Jackson Hewitt’s phone support exists, but don’t expect actual tax advice—just basic product help. If you want real answers from a tax pro, you’ll have to look elsewhere and pay extra. And if you’re thinking about using its in-person prep, good luck figuring out the price. The company doesn’t list it online, so you’ll have to call or physically show up just to get a number. Not exactly ideal in the digital age.
Who It’s Best For
Jackson Hewitt Online is a solid choice for filers with complex returns who don’t want to pay premium prices. If you have a lot of deductions—like student loan interest, education expenses, mortgage interest, or medical costs—it can handle itemized returns without sneaky upsells. It’s also a great option for people filing in multiple states, since it allows unlimited state returns for the same flat fee. If you’re comfortable filing yourself but want error-checking and live chat support, this could be a good fit.
For those who need extra help, Jackson Hewitt also offers professional tax preparation services. Its tax professionals can handle everything for you, ensuring you get the biggest refund possible, backed by the company’s Lifetime Accuracy Guarantee. If Jackson Hewitt makes a mistake and you don’t get the refund you deserve, you’ll get your tax prep fees back—plus $100.
- Flat $25 fee for Jackson Hewitt online, regardless of return complexity.
- There is no extra charge for filing in multiple states.
- In-person tax professionals can handle complex returns (starting at $49 for first-time customers; prices vary).
- Over 5,200 locations, including many Walmart stores.
- If a tax pro makes a mistake, you get your tax prep fees back plus $100.
- DIY option includes built-in error checking and easy W-2 import.
- Live chat support is available for product-related questions.
- Reps only assist with software issues, not tax advice.
- You have to visit a location or call to get a quote.
- In-person appointments may have wait times.
- If you need expert guidance, you must upgrade to the pro tax prep service.
H&R Block
BEST TAX SOFTWARE IF YOU NEED IN-PERSON HELP
H&R Block Work With A Pro
Federal Filing Fee
Starts at $99
State Filing Fee
Starts at $75
Starts at $99
Starts at $75
Why We Like It
For filers who prefer face-to-face help, H&R Block’s Work With A Pro option offers the most flexibility. You can meet in person at a local office, drop off your documents and review your return online later, or connect remotely by uploading everything from your phone or computer. No matter how you file, a tax professional does the heavy lifting.
With offices in all 50 states and abroad, including Australia, India, Canada, Italy, England, Japan, Germany, Panama, Guam and South Korea, H&R Block makes it easy to get help wherever you are. H&R Block even offers U.S. tax filing in Spanish.
Its No Surprise Guarantee promises transparent pricing, free audit assistance, and a midyear check-in—if the company misses the mark, you get 20% off next year’s tax prep. And if H&R Block makes an error that results in a bigger refund, it will refund your prep fee and file an amended return for free.
This is the best option for those who want expert help without the guesswork.
What We Don’t Like
H&R Block’s Work With A Pro lacks upfront pricing transparency on its website. You’ll need to upload your documents and begin working with a tax preparer before knowing the exact cost of your tax prep.
Who It’s Best For
H&R Block’s Work With a Pro is best for taxpayers who want expert guidance and the flexibility to file in person, drop off documents or connect remotely. It’s ideal for those with complex tax situations, such as self-employed filers, investors or anyone needing hands-on support. With offices in all 50 states and abroad, it’s also a great option for expats and military personnel filing U.S. taxes. However, pricing isn’t fully transparent upfront, so it’s better suited for those prioritizing convenience over cost certainty.
- Multiple filing options: in-person, drop-off or remote.
- Available in all 50 states and internationally.
- Access to professional tax preparers for complex returns.
- Free audit assistance and a midyear tax check-in.
- Pricing isn’t transparent until after document submission.
- Not the most budget-friendly option for simple returns.
- Requires uploading all documents before receiving a price estimate.
TurboTax Deluxe
BEST TAX SOFTWARE FOR EASE OF USE
TurboTax Deluxe
Federal Filing Fee
$79
State Filing Fee
$64 per state
$79
$64 per state
Why We Like It
Taxes are complicated. TurboTax Deluxe makes them feel less like a headache and more like filling out an easy Q&A. Whether you’re a homeowner, a parent, a student, or just trying to squeeze out every possible deduction, the software guides you step by step—no tax law degree required.
It scans for 350+ deductions and credits, helps you maximize mortgage interest and property tax breaks, and even walks you through education expenses and child tax credits. Have big life changes? TurboTax automatically adjusts your return so you don’t miss out.
The interface is clean, intuitive and built for real people, not accountants. Need help? You can tap into live expert support or even hand off your return to a tax pro.
If you want a tax filing experience that doesn’t make you want to throw your laptop out the window, TurboTax Deluxe is the way to go.
What We Don’t Like
TurboTax comes with one major downside: upsells. TurboTax constantly tries to sell add-on products throughout the filing experience, such as help and support packages to assist with audits or amended tax returns, and one-on-one time with specialists.
Most filers don’t need to pay for these extras to complete their taxes successfully, but the upsells may sow doubt in their minds that they need to spend extra to do so, and may force them to take time away from filing to opt out of each offer.
Who It’s Best For
TurboTax Deluxe is best for homeowners, parents, students and anyone looking to maximize deductions without dealing with complex tax forms. It’s ideal for filers with moderate tax situations—those who need more than the basics but don’t have self-employment or business income. This is a solid choice if you want an easy, guided experience with step-by-step help, automatic deduction searches, and access to expert support when needed. However, it’s not the cheapest option, so budget-conscious filers with simple returns may prefer a free alternative.
- The easy-to-use interface helps you quickly navigate to specific tax forms and situations.
- TurboTax Deluxe offers many helpful tools, such as EasyGuide and Explain Why. These tools identify additional tax deductions and credits and briefly explain why you may owe taxes.
- You can upload your W-2, enabling TurboTax to automatically fill out key fields on your return.
- It provides alternative secure ways to log into your account without using your password.
- TurboTax tries to upsell you more than competitors do.
- It can be more expensive than the competition.
TaxSlayer Self-Employed
BEST TAX SOFTWARE FOR THE SELF-EMPLOYED
TaxSlayer Self-Employed
Federal Filing Fee
$72.95
State Filing Fee
$47.95
$72.95
$47.95
Why We Like It
Among the tax software options for self-employed people, TaxSlayer Self-Employed stands out. What we loved most about using this software is its strong customer service—including a priority phone line—and its interface, which is easy and intuitive, even for more complicated returns.
We found the guided interview approach helpful for those who might want a little more direction. It walks you through a step-by-step process to help you file your tax returns quickly and accurately. If you don’t need the extra hand-holding, you can navigate directly to specific tax forms to enter your income and deductions—a much faster option.
But if you contact TaxSlayer with a question and the tax expert you talk to can’t answer it, the case is escalated until it’s resolved.
What We Don’t Like
TaxSlayer’s guided experience may slow you down if you’re searching for a particular deduction or business expense. For example, after you click “Deductions,” you’re provided a list of common write-offs. If you don’t see the deduction you’re searching for, you must click “See More” to filter through the remaining options.
Who It’s Best For
A self-employed person who wants the most value for their money will appreciate TaxSlayer Self-Employed. At a cost of less than $120 to file both federal and state taxes, the software offers step-by-step guidance, tax experts on call and the time-saving option to go directly to the specific tax forms you need.
- Costs include expert tax help to answer any questions you may have.
- It offers a guided experience to help you find the necessary tax forms.
- TaxSlayer’s tax experts have limited IRS VITA or in-house training and may not be certified public accountants, enrolled agents or tax attorneys.
Most Popular is calculated from the number of times each affiliate product was selected by Forbes Advisor users over a six month time period.
Forbes Advisor Rating
| Company | Forbes Advisor Rating | Best For | Federal Filing Fee | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Best Tax Software for Customer Support
|
$62.95
|
On TaxSlayer's Website
| |
Cash App Taxes
|
|
Best Free Tax Software
|
$0
| |
|
|
Best Tax Software for Value
|
$25
|
Read Our Full Review
| |
|
|
Best Tax Software if You Need In-Person Help
|
Starts at $99
|
On H&R Block's Website
| |
|
|
Best Tax Software for Ease of Use
|
$79
|
On Intuit's Website
| |
|
Best Tax Software for the Self-Employed
|
$72.95
|
On TaxSlayer's Website
|
What Is Tax Software?
Tax software is a digital product that allows you to file both your federal and state tax returns with guided help. Depending on the tax software you choose, you can find features such as direct import of tax forms, tax deduction locators, expert tax help and customer service support.
Tax software helps you save time because it provides navigation tools to easily enter your tax information. Also, most tax software products allow you to upload your prior year’s tax return so you don’t have to manually reenter key details such as your name, Social Security number and dependents’ information.
While tax software can range in price, if you have a simple tax return—maybe with only one W-2 and few deductions—in many cases you can file for free.
How Does Tax Software Work?
While tax software may differ depending on the software provider, you can expect most tax software to work similarly. Typically, you enter your income from tax documents, such as your W-2, 1099 K or 1099-INT. You also enter deductions you may be entitled to, such as mortgage or student loan interest, business expenses or contributions to a health savings account.
Depending on the tax software you choose, you may be asked a series of questions much like those you’d be asked if you were to hire a tax professional. In some cases, you may enter your information directly onto a tax form, and you may need some tax knowledge to ensure you enter the information correctly.
After going through the tax software’s navigation tools, you will know whether you owe taxes or can expect a refund. You can choose to enter your banking details to pay taxes or receive a direct deposit to your bank account. Finally, you can opt to file electronically or choose to file a paper tax return.
Related: File A Tax Return This Year, Even If You Usually Don’t Do It
Should I Pay Someone To Do My Taxes?
Here are some scenarios where you should consider paying someone to do your taxes in 2026:
- You just started a business during the tax year or have a complex business structure, such as an S-corporation, partnership or corporation.
- You have employees or you’re self-employed.
- You experienced a recent change that affects your tax situation, such as a new marital status, more or fewer dependents, a job change or a move to a different state.
- You sold a property during the tax year.
- You worked in multiple states.
How Much Does a Tax Preparer Cost?
The fee can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the tax preparer and the complexity of the return. Some tax preparers charge a fixed fee that varies by how complicated the return is to prepare. Others charge based on their firm’s standard hourly rates. Individuals typically pay a fixed fee, while corporations usually pay hourly rates.
How To Choose an Online Tax Software Provider
Before buying tax software, it’s important to identify your requirements. Take time to think about your financial picture and the particulars of your earnings and expenses. Do you work freelance? Do you have investments or other passive sources of income?
Then research your options. You can narrow them down to a manageable number by setting standards. Check out the features and capabilities of the software, and figure out which ones your situation calls for. Otherwise, you might end up paying for many options you don’t need.
Ease of use, cost, technical assistance and customer service are four broad areas to consider when choosing the best platform for you.
Ease of Use
Costs and Fees
Technical and Tax Assistance
Customer Support Options
Pros and Cons of Tax Preparation Software
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Easy navigation tools
|
Limited tax professional assistance
|
|
Interview questionnaires
|
May require user to have some working tax knowledge
|
|
Direct import of W-2 and 1099 forms
| |
|
Overall review of tax forms and calculations
|
Is it better to hire a tax professional or use tax software?
Kemberley Washington
Certified Public Accountant
Nehemiah Jefferson
LLM, Tax Attorney
While both options have their advantages and disadvantages, it ultimately will depend on your level of tax knowledge and the complexity of your tax return. The use of tax software may work well for you if you have simple taxes, such as a Form W-2 and a few deductions. However, if you are self-employed, own rental properties or have other investments, you may want to hire a tax professional.
Certified Public Accountant
While tax software may be sufficient for relatively straightforward returns, it is my experience that the tax professional can add tremendous value in preparing tax returns that are more complex. My clients are always seeking advice and guidance centered around tax planning, tax avoidance, and how the tax code applies to their specific situation. Moreover, I have discovered that even for the most simple returns where a taxpayer has used tax software, they still have questions.
LLM, Tax Attorney
How To Buy The Best Tax Software
Before buying tax software, it’s important to identify your specific requirements. Take time to think about your financial picture and the particulars of your earnings and expenses. Do you work freelance? Do you have investments or other passive sources of income?
Then research your options. You can narrow them down to a manageable number by setting standards. Check out the features and capabilities of the software, and figure out which ones your situation calls for. Otherwise there’s a risk you might end up paying for lots of options you don’t need.
If you want to lower your tax liability, there is still time to fund a traditional individual retirement account (IRA). The IRS allows taxpayers to fund a prior year’s IRA up until the April 15 tax deadline. If you choose to do so, you can take the deduction on your tax return.
Free Tax Filing
When it comes to free tax filing options, all products are not created equal. We reviewed the free versions of each of our finalist platforms and awarded Cash App Taxes the title as our best free pick because it provides the widest variety of forms at no cost. But H&R Block was so close that we’re calling our results a virtual tie.
While the online tax products we studied provide limited free filing options, there’s another, lesser-known choice that offers free tax filings with few limitations and restrictions.
IRS Free File
The IRS Free File program generally allows you to file your tax return for free if you have an adjusted gross income (AGI) of less than $84,000. You may want to opt for IRS Free File rather than an advertised free filing solution from an online tax provider because the IRS’s program can support more tax forms for free. Before using the service, browse each product offering to see which free product works best for you.
The IRS Free File tax providers are:
- FreeTaxUSA
- TaxSlayer
- TaxAct
- IRS Free File Program by ezTaxReturn.com
- 1040.com
- FileYourTaxes.com
- OnLine Taxes (OLT)
- 1040Now
The program has been around since 2003, but you’re forgiven if you haven’t heard of it. The IRS estimates that 70% of all taxpayers qualify for the program, yet only a small percentage of taxpayers have used it.
Other Free Tax Filing Options
If you have a simple tax return, with one W-2 and a couple of deductions, you’ll likely be able to file your taxes for free. Many online tax software providers offer free filing for simple returns on their websites.
Here are some questions to ask before selecting a free product:
- Which forms does the tax online software provider allow you to file?
- Is there an additional cost for state tax return filing?
- Are there any income restrictions to qualify?
- Is support available?
Related: How To File Your Taxes For Free
Methodology
We began our analysis by looking at nine popular online tax software providers: Cash App Taxes, eFile.com, FileYourTaxes.com, FreeTaxUSA, H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt, TaxSlayer, TaxAct and TurboTax.
To evaluate the five finalists—Cash App Taxes, H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt, TaxSlayer and TurboTax—we created three generic tax filing profiles and ran each through the software to review for ease of use, quality of customer service and free filing options. Those profiles were:
- A single filer with a basic W-2 and student loan deductions
- A married couple with wage income, a dependent and child care expenses
- A freelancer with business income and deductions
Our analysis used side-by-side comparisons of the providers’ features and costs to assess which offered the best online tax software in the following categories:
- Best for Customer Support: Our analysis included a thorough review of each platform’s support options. We determined if the online tax software providers offered phone, live chat, email or help articles for users, and we evaluated each option. We contacted customer service departments by phone to assess their hold time and customer service quality.
- Best Free Tax Software: For the best free online tax software, we analyzed which provider offered the most impressive overall package of features with no fees for federal and state tax return filings, no income or filing status restrictions, and the broadest selection of tax filing forms.
- Best for Value: For the best-value online tax software, we sought to determine which provider offered all tax filings and situations at the best cost. This category differs from our best free online tax software in that we focused on the lowest-priced versions of our finalists’ online tax software.
- Best Tax Software for Ease of Use: An easy-to-use platform is most important for many tax filers. For this category, we reviewed each platform to determine which provided the simplest process for completing users’ tax forms. We reviewed each company’s Q&A tax interview options, looked for the ability to upload W-2 forms and automate data entry, explored all navigation menus, and gauged the length of time required to complete a return.
- Best for the Self-Employed: Self-employed freelance workers generally have more complicated income tax filings than employees. Ensuring that online tax software caters to the special needs of freelancers and self-employed individuals is essential at tax time. We evaluated each platform’s offering in this category for pricing, support, state filing fees, deduction finder options and total costs.
Each category was weighted and scored feature by feature by a certified public accountant (CPA) with more than 20 years of taxation experience, who completed all tax software testing by opening accounts with each provider to perform hands-on evaluations.
To learn more about how Forbes Advisor rates tax products and our editorial process, check out our Taxes Rating & Review Methodology.
Former Staff Writer Kemberley Washington contributed to this article.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if you miss the tax deadline?
If you expect you may need more time to file, you should consider filing Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
Keep in mind that while a tax extension extends the time to file, it does not extend the time to pay your taxes, which are still due on tax day. If you fail to request an extension or pay your taxes by the due date, you may incur additional penalties and interest. The final date to file an extension for your previous year’s taxes is typically by April 15 of the following year.
Who should and who should not use tax software?
Generally, if you need to file a tax return, you should use tax software. You could refrain in certain circumstances. For example, you may not need software if you have one Form W-2 and no tax deductions. Even in those cases, though, using tax preparation software makes it easier to file your tax return and request direct deposit of your tax refund.
Are there any hidden fees associated with tax software?
You may be aware of some fees only after you start using the tax software. However, you’ll have an option to decline any additional fees before you file your tax return.
Do I have to buy tax software every year?
Using online tax preparation software, you won’t need to buy tax software every year. Tax software providers update their online products annually to align with the current tax law.