Quick Overview
- 1#1: TurboTax - Comprehensive consumer tax preparation software with guided filing, audit support, and maximum refund guarantees for 2023 taxes.
- 2#2: H&R Block - User-friendly tax software offering DIY filing, live expert help, and Worry-Free Audit Support for accurate 2023 returns.
- 3#3: TaxAct - Affordable tax filing software with extensive forms support, import capabilities, and accuracy guarantees for 2023 tax year.
- 4#4: TaxSlayer - Cost-effective online tax preparer providing step-by-step guidance, live chat support, and peace-of-mind guarantee for 2023 filings.
- 5#5: Drake Tax - Professional-grade tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing, bank integration, and advanced diagnostics for 2023 professional use.
- 6#6: FreeTaxUSA - Free federal and low-cost state tax filing software with full form support and fast e-filing for simple to complex 2023 returns.
- 7#7: Lacerte - High-end professional tax software from Intuit featuring automation, error checks, and seamless integration for 2023 tax pros.
- 8#8: ProSeries - Desktop-based professional tax prep tool with robust calculations, custom workflows, and e-file capabilities for 2023 seasons.
- 9#9: Cash App Taxes - Completely free tax filing service for federal and state returns with easy import from prior years for straightforward 2023 taxes.
- 10#10: UltraTax CS - Enterprise-level tax preparation platform with cloud access, compliance tools, and multi-client management for 2023 professional firms.
We selected and ranked these tools based on features, quality, ease of use, and value, prioritizing reliability and adaptability to suit both individual taxpayers and professional firms.
Comparison Table
With a range of tax software tools on the market, from TurboTax and H&R Block to TaxAct, TaxSlayer, and Drake Tax, choosing the right one can be challenging. This comparison table helps readers identify key differences in features, usability, and functionality to find the best fit for their filing needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TurboTax Comprehensive consumer tax preparation software with guided filing, audit support, and maximum refund guarantees for 2023 taxes. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | H&R Block User-friendly tax software offering DIY filing, live expert help, and Worry-Free Audit Support for accurate 2023 returns. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Affordable tax filing software with extensive forms support, import capabilities, and accuracy guarantees for 2023 tax year. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 4 | TaxSlayer Cost-effective online tax preparer providing step-by-step guidance, live chat support, and peace-of-mind guarantee for 2023 filings. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | Drake Tax Professional-grade tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing, bank integration, and advanced diagnostics for 2023 professional use. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 6 | FreeTaxUSA Free federal and low-cost state tax filing software with full form support and fast e-filing for simple to complex 2023 returns. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 7 | Lacerte High-end professional tax software from Intuit featuring automation, error checks, and seamless integration for 2023 tax pros. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | ProSeries Desktop-based professional tax prep tool with robust calculations, custom workflows, and e-file capabilities for 2023 seasons. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Cash App Taxes Completely free tax filing service for federal and state returns with easy import from prior years for straightforward 2023 taxes. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 10/10 |
| 10 | UltraTax CS Enterprise-level tax preparation platform with cloud access, compliance tools, and multi-client management for 2023 professional firms. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
Comprehensive consumer tax preparation software with guided filing, audit support, and maximum refund guarantees for 2023 taxes.
User-friendly tax software offering DIY filing, live expert help, and Worry-Free Audit Support for accurate 2023 returns.
Affordable tax filing software with extensive forms support, import capabilities, and accuracy guarantees for 2023 tax year.
Cost-effective online tax preparer providing step-by-step guidance, live chat support, and peace-of-mind guarantee for 2023 filings.
Professional-grade tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing, bank integration, and advanced diagnostics for 2023 professional use.
Free federal and low-cost state tax filing software with full form support and fast e-filing for simple to complex 2023 returns.
High-end professional tax software from Intuit featuring automation, error checks, and seamless integration for 2023 tax pros.
Desktop-based professional tax prep tool with robust calculations, custom workflows, and e-file capabilities for 2023 seasons.
Completely free tax filing service for federal and state returns with easy import from prior years for straightforward 2023 taxes.
Enterprise-level tax preparation platform with cloud access, compliance tools, and multi-client management for 2023 professional firms.
TurboTax
specializedComprehensive consumer tax preparation software with guided filing, audit support, and maximum refund guarantees for 2023 taxes.
Step-by-step conversational interview that translates complex tax jargon into plain English questions and auto-populates forms.
TurboTax is a leading online tax preparation software developed by Intuit, designed to simplify the U.S. federal and state tax filing process for 2023 returns through an intuitive, step-by-step interview-style interface. It supports everything from basic W-2 income in the Free Edition to complex scenarios like investments, rental properties, self-employment, and cryptocurrency in higher tiers such as Premier and Self-Employed. Additional features include accuracy and maximum refund guarantees, audit defense, and optional live expert assistance.
Pros
- Exceptionally user-friendly guided interface that minimizes errors
- Comprehensive support for all tax situations including Schedule C and investments
- Live chat, expert review, and Full Service options for hands-off filing
Cons
- Premium pricing with frequent upsells during the process
- State filing requires additional fees
- Less ideal for very simple returns due to marketing push toward paid versions
Best For
Users with moderately complex tax situations who prioritize ease, accuracy guarantees, and access to live tax experts.
Pricing
Free Edition for simple 1040 returns; Deluxe ($59+), Premier ($89+), Self-Employed ($119+ ) for federal, plus $39-$49 per state.
H&R Block
specializedUser-friendly tax software offering DIY filing, live expert help, and Worry-Free Audit Support for accurate 2023 returns.
Hybrid filing with seamless handoff to thousands of local H&R Block offices
H&R Block's 2023 online tax software offers a user-friendly platform for filing federal and state returns, supporting everything from simple W-2 forms to complex self-employment and investment scenarios across multiple tiers. It includes tools for maximizing deductions, error checks, and import from prior years or financial institutions. Backed by the company's extensive network, it provides live expert help and the unique option to transfer to in-person filing at local offices.
Pros
- Robust customer support via chat, phone, and in-person options
- Comprehensive form coverage including Schedule C for self-employed
- 100% accuracy guarantee and maximum refund promise
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly with add-ons and state fees
- Free edition limited to basic 1040 returns
- Occasional upsells during filing process
Best For
Tax filers who value strong support and the flexibility to switch from online to professional in-person assistance for complex situations.
Pricing
Free for simple returns; Deluxe ~$35 federal + $37/state; Premium ~$65 + state; Self-Employed ~$115 + state (2023 pricing).
TaxAct
specializedAffordable tax filing software with extensive forms support, import capabilities, and accuracy guarantees for 2023 tax year.
Unmatched low prices with a $100,000 accuracy guarantee and proven refund maximization tools.
TaxAct is a comprehensive online tax preparation software designed to help users file federal and state tax returns for 2023 with support for a wide range of forms and schedules. It offers tiered editions from Free for simple returns to Self-Employed for complex situations like business income and investments. The platform emphasizes affordability, accuracy guarantees, and tools like refund maximizers to simplify the process for DIY filers.
Pros
- Extremely affordable pricing across editions
- Supports over 25,000 tax forms and scenarios
- Strong accuracy and maximum refund guarantees
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to competitors
- Live support limited to paid add-ons
- Mobile app less robust for complex returns
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with straightforward to moderately complex tax situations seeking reliable, low-cost software.
Pricing
Free for simple 1040; Deluxe ~$40, Premier ~$60, Self-Employed ~$100 (federal); state returns ~$35-45 extra.
TaxSlayer
specializedCost-effective online tax preparer providing step-by-step guidance, live chat support, and peace-of-mind guarantee for 2023 filings.
Lowest pricing for live expert assistance without upsell pressure
TaxSlayer is an affordable online tax preparation software that enables users to file federal and multiple state returns with support for a wide range of forms and deductions. In 2023, it offered tiered plans from free basic filing to advanced self-employed options, emphasizing cost savings over hand-holding guidance. It performed reliably for straightforward to moderately complex taxes but lagged in user-friendly interviews compared to top competitors.
Pros
- Exceptional affordability across all plans
- Strong support for complex forms and schedules
- Reliable live chat and phone support in premium tiers
Cons
- Outdated, form-heavy interface lacks intuitive guidance
- No free state filing beyond basic federal plan
- Fewer educational resources and error-checking prompts
Best For
Budget-conscious filers comfortable with self-guided tax preparation and moderate complexity.
Pricing
Simply Free ($0 federal, state extra); Classic ($34.95 federal + $36.95/state); Premium ($49.95 federal + $36.95/state); Self-Employed ($64.95 federal + $36.95/state).
Drake Tax
enterpriseProfessional-grade tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing, bank integration, and advanced diagnostics for 2023 professional use.
Unlimited e-filing and bank product integration at no extra per-return cost
Drake Tax is a professional-grade tax preparation software designed for tax pros, offering comprehensive support for federal, state, and local returns including Forms 1040, 1065, 1120, and more for 2023 tax year. It includes e-filing, direct deposit, bank product integration, and tools for high-volume preparers with unlimited returns. Known for reliability and affordability, it caters to small to mid-sized firms with strong audit defense features.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with unlimited e-filing and returns
- Extensive 2023 federal/state form library and bank integrations
- Responsive customer support and free training resources
Cons
- Dated Windows-based interface feels clunky
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Limited native cloud or mobile access
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms prioritizing cost savings and reliability over modern UI.
Pricing
Starts at $1,695 for base federal + 1 state package; $225 per additional state; unlimited returns/e-files; volume discounts for multi-user.
FreeTaxUSA
specializedFree federal and low-cost state tax filing software with full form support and fast e-filing for simple to complex 2023 returns.
Completely free federal tax filing for nearly all supported forms, without income or complexity restrictions
FreeTaxUSA is an online tax preparation platform that enables users to file their federal income taxes for free, supporting a wide array of IRS forms and schedules for simple to complex returns. It offers step-by-step guidance through the filing process and e-filing capabilities. State returns are available for a nominal fee, with optional paid upgrades for priority support and audit assistance.
Pros
- Free federal filing for most forms and situations
- Low-cost state returns at $14.99
- No intrusive upsells or hidden fees
Cons
- Basic, somewhat dated interface
- Limited free support options
- No direct W-2/1099 import from all employers
Best For
Budget-conscious taxpayers with straightforward to moderately complex returns who prioritize low cost over flashy features.
Pricing
Federal filing free; Deluxe federal with audit support $7.99; each state return $14.99.
Lacerte
enterpriseHigh-end professional tax software from Intuit featuring automation, error checks, and seamless integration for 2023 tax pros.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors, compliance issues, and optimization opportunities before filing.
Lacerte, developed by Intuit, is a professional tax preparation software designed for CPAs, tax firms, and accountants handling complex returns including individuals, partnerships, corporations, estates, and trusts. It provides extensive form support, automated calculations, diagnostics for error-checking, and seamless e-filing with IRS and state agencies. In 2023, it featured timely updates for new tax laws like the Secure 2.0 Act, inflation adjustments, and energy credits, along with strong integration with QuickBooks for data import.
Pros
- Exceptional handling of complex business and fiduciary returns
- Robust diagnostics and error-checking tools
- Seamless integration with Intuit products like QuickBooks
Cons
- High subscription costs, especially for multi-user firms
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Interface feels dated compared to newer competitors
Best For
Experienced CPAs and tax professionals managing high-volume, complex business and individual returns.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$1,300 for basic 1040 packages (1 user, unlimited returns), scaling to $3,000+ with business/state modules and multi-user licenses.
ProSeries
enterpriseDesktop-based professional tax prep tool with robust calculations, custom workflows, and e-file capabilities for 2023 seasons.
Advanced Error Check with Smart Diagnostics that proactively identifies issues before e-filing
ProSeries by Intuit is professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs, accountants, and tax pros handling individual, business, and fiduciary returns. It supports federal and multi-state e-filing, automated calculations, error diagnostics, and integration with QuickBooks for seamless client data management. Designed for high-volume preparers, it offers customizable workflows and reliable bank products for refunds and payments.
Pros
- Robust support for complex returns including partnerships and estates
- High e-file acceptance rates and integrated bank products
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and Intuit ecosystem
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors for small firms
- Interface can feel dated and keyboard-heavy for new users
- Limited mobile or cloud access options
Best For
Established tax professionals managing moderate to high volumes of individual and small business returns who value reliability and Intuit integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $449 for Basic unlimited federal individual returns; additional $40+ per state, with Professional ($1,449) and Enterprise tiers for business returns.
Cash App Taxes
specializedCompletely free tax filing service for federal and state returns with easy import from prior years for straightforward 2023 taxes.
Guaranteed free federal and state e-filing with no paid upgrades required
Cash App Taxes is a free online tax preparation and e-filing service that handles federal and state returns for simple to moderately complex tax situations. Formerly Credit Karma Tax, it supports W-2 wages, unemployment benefits, interest/dividends, and some retirement income without any filing fees. Integrated with the Cash App platform, it offers a mobile-friendly interface for quick and accurate tax filing.
Pros
- Completely free federal and state filing (no upsells)
- Intuitive, step-by-step interface with mobile app support
- Automatic import of prior-year data and W-2s
Cons
- Limited form support (no Schedule C for business expenses, no rental income)
- No live chat or phone support
- Doesn't cover all states or highly complex scenarios
Best For
Wage earners with straightforward returns like W-2s, unemployment, or basic investments who want a truly free filing option.
Pricing
100% free for federal and state returns in 41 supported states; no hidden fees.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseEnterprise-level tax preparation platform with cloud access, compliance tools, and multi-client management for 2023 professional firms.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively identifies and resolves calculation errors across thousands of scenarios
UltraTax CS is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters, designed for CPAs and accounting firms handling complex federal, state, and local returns. It offers robust calculation engines, automated diagnostics, and integration with practice management tools like Practice CS. In 2023, it supported all major forms with reliable e-filing and multi-state compliance, making it a staple for mid-to-large firms.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all federal and 50+ state returns with automatic updates
- Powerful diagnostics engine that minimizes errors and ensures compliance
- Seamless integration with Thomson Reuters ecosystem for workflow efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High cost structure that may not suit solo practitioners
- Interface feels dated compared to cloud-native competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large accounting firms with experienced staff preparing high volumes of complex business and individual returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $5,000-$15,000 annually per preparer, depending on modules, users, and firm size; custom quotes required.
Conclusion
After evaluating all reviewed tools, TurboTax stands out as the top choice, offering comprehensive features that cater to diverse user needs. H&R Block, with its user-friendly design and live expert support, serves as a strong alternative for those seeking personalized help, while TaxAct excels as an affordable option with extensive form support. Together, these three tools represent the best in the market, ensuring users find a solution that fits their preferences.
Make tax filing easy by trying TurboTax, the top-ranked tool, to leverage its robust features and streamline your process
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison