Quick Overview
- 1#1: TurboTax - Guides users through complex DIY tax filing with intuitive interviews, import features, and maximum refund guarantees.
- 2#2: H&R Block - Offers comprehensive online tax preparation with expert support options and worry-free audit assistance for DIY filers.
- 3#3: TaxAct - Provides affordable DIY tax software with robust deduction finders, accuracy guarantees, and prior-year import capabilities.
- 4#4: TaxSlayer - Delivers cost-effective self-service tax filing with unlimited support and easy navigation for various tax situations.
- 5#5: FreeTaxUSA - Enables free federal and low-cost state DIY tax returns with straightforward forms and e-filing support.
- 6#6: Cash App Taxes - Offers completely free DIY tax filing for simple returns with direct deposit refunds and no upselling.
- 7#7: TaxHawk - Supports budget-friendly DIY tax preparation with 100% accuracy guarantee and free federal filing options.
- 8#8: 1040.com - Simplifies DIY tax returns for individuals and small businesses with flat-rate pricing and quick e-filing.
- 9#9: OLT.com - Facilitates low-cost online tax preparation and e-filing for standard DIY returns with live chat support.
- 10#10: eSmart Tax - Provides inexpensive DIY tax software with form-based entry and basic refund maximization tools.
We evaluated these tools across key metrics including functionality (deduction finders, audit support), user experience (intuitive design, import capabilities), reliability (accuracy guarantees, customer support), and value (cost vs. features), ensuring they meet the needs of diverse filers, from simple to complex returns.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores popular DIY tax software options, such as TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, TaxSlayer, FreeTaxUSA, and more, to guide users through their choices. It details key features, pricing models, and usability to help readers identify a tool that aligns with their tax situation, whether simple or complex. By comparing these platforms, users can gain clarity on which software best suits their needs for accuracy, cost, and support.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TurboTax Guides users through complex DIY tax filing with intuitive interviews, import features, and maximum refund guarantees. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | H&R Block Offers comprehensive online tax preparation with expert support options and worry-free audit assistance for DIY filers. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Provides affordable DIY tax software with robust deduction finders, accuracy guarantees, and prior-year import capabilities. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 4 | TaxSlayer Delivers cost-effective self-service tax filing with unlimited support and easy navigation for various tax situations. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 5 | FreeTaxUSA Enables free federal and low-cost state DIY tax returns with straightforward forms and e-filing support. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 6 | Cash App Taxes Offers completely free DIY tax filing for simple returns with direct deposit refunds and no upselling. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 7 | TaxHawk Supports budget-friendly DIY tax preparation with 100% accuracy guarantee and free federal filing options. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 8 | 1040.com Simplifies DIY tax returns for individuals and small businesses with flat-rate pricing and quick e-filing. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 9 | OLT.com Facilitates low-cost online tax preparation and e-filing for standard DIY returns with live chat support. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 10 | eSmart Tax Provides inexpensive DIY tax software with form-based entry and basic refund maximization tools. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 6.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
Guides users through complex DIY tax filing with intuitive interviews, import features, and maximum refund guarantees.
Offers comprehensive online tax preparation with expert support options and worry-free audit assistance for DIY filers.
Provides affordable DIY tax software with robust deduction finders, accuracy guarantees, and prior-year import capabilities.
Delivers cost-effective self-service tax filing with unlimited support and easy navigation for various tax situations.
Enables free federal and low-cost state DIY tax returns with straightforward forms and e-filing support.
Offers completely free DIY tax filing for simple returns with direct deposit refunds and no upselling.
Supports budget-friendly DIY tax preparation with 100% accuracy guarantee and free federal filing options.
Simplifies DIY tax returns for individuals and small businesses with flat-rate pricing and quick e-filing.
Facilitates low-cost online tax preparation and e-filing for standard DIY returns with live chat support.
Provides inexpensive DIY tax software with form-based entry and basic refund maximization tools.
TurboTax
specializedGuides users through complex DIY tax filing with intuitive interviews, import features, and maximum refund guarantees.
Intelligent Q&A interview engine that uncovers hidden deductions and credits like a tax pro
TurboTax is a leading DIY tax software that guides users through preparing and filing federal and state income tax returns with an intuitive step-by-step interview process. It supports a wide range of tax situations, from simple W-2 employees to self-employed individuals with investments, rentals, and business income. The software automatically imports prior-year data, calculates deductions and credits to maximize refunds, and offers audit support and live expert help in paid versions.
Pros
- Exceptional step-by-step guidance in plain English
- Comprehensive support for all major tax forms and scenarios
- Maximum Refund and Accuracy Guarantees with free audit defense
Cons
- Premium pricing for advanced features
- Frequent upsells to higher tiers or add-ons
- Limited free version excludes itemized deductions
Best For
DIY filers who want professional-level guidance and maximum refund optimization without hiring an accountant.
Pricing
Free for simple Form 1040 returns; Deluxe ($59 fed/$49 state), Premier ($89/$49), Self-Employed ($119/$49); prices as of 2023 tax year.
H&R Block
specializedOffers comprehensive online tax preparation with expert support options and worry-free audit assistance for DIY filers.
Worry-Free Audit Support, providing full representation in IRS audits at no extra cost
H&R Block's online DIY tax software offers a user-friendly platform for preparing and e-filing federal and state tax returns, with tiered plans suited to various complexity levels from simple W-2 income to self-employment and investments. It includes tools like deduction maximizers, error checks, and import capabilities from prior years or other software. Backed by the company's long-standing expertise, it provides guarantees for accuracy and maximum refunds, plus optional expert assistance.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for complex situations like rentals and gig economy income
- Strong guarantees including 100% accuracy and maximum refund
- Seamless prior-year import and multi-state filing capabilities
Cons
- Interface feels slightly dated compared to top competitors
- State returns require additional fees on all paid plans
- Advanced support features locked behind higher tiers or extra costs
Best For
DIY filers with moderately complex returns who want reliable guarantees and optional pro review without full-service pricing.
Pricing
Free for simple 1040 returns; Deluxe from $35 federal (+$37 state), Premium $65 (+$37 state), Self-Employed $115 (+$37 state).
TaxAct
specializedProvides affordable DIY tax software with robust deduction finders, accuracy guarantees, and prior-year import capabilities.
Unmatched affordability while supporting the broadest range of tax forms and deductions
TaxAct is a comprehensive online DIY tax software that enables users to prepare and e-file federal and state income taxes for individuals, families, and small businesses. It offers tiered packages covering simple W-2 returns to complex scenarios like investments, rentals, and self-employment through an intuitive Q&A format. The platform includes tools for audit protection, refund maximization, and accuracy guarantees to simplify the filing process.
Pros
- Exceptionally low pricing with strong value
- Supports over 20,000 tax forms and situations
- Reliable accuracy and maximum refund guarantees
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to competitors
- Live support limited to paid tiers
- Fewer beginner-friendly tutorials
Best For
Cost-conscious users with moderately complex tax situations seeking robust form coverage without premium polish.
Pricing
Free for simple 1040 returns; Deluxe ($39.99 federal + $39.99 state), Premier ($59.99 federal + $39.99 state), Self-Employed ($99.99 federal + $39.99 state).
TaxSlayer
specializedDelivers cost-effective self-service tax filing with unlimited support and easy navigation for various tax situations.
Unbeatable value with comprehensive support included at low prices, starting under $25 for most users.
TaxSlayer is an affordable online DIY tax preparation software that enables users to file federal and state returns with support for common forms like W-2, 1099, Schedule C, and various deductions/credits. It offers a straightforward interview-style process to guide users through their taxes step-by-step. Additional features include audit defense and prior-year import, making it suitable for straightforward to moderately complex returns.
Pros
- Very affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Responsive live chat and phone support on paid plans
- Supports a wide range of tax forms and situations
Cons
- Interface feels dated and less intuitive than top rivals
- Limited automatic import options from financial institutions
- Mobile app lacks full filing functionality
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with straightforward to moderately complex returns who value cost savings and accessible support.
Pricing
Free for simple 1040; Simply Free $0, Classic $22.95 federal + $39.95 state, Premium $39.95 federal + $39.95 state, Self-Employed $58.95 federal + $39.95 state (2023 pricing).
FreeTaxUSA
specializedEnables free federal and low-cost state DIY tax returns with straightforward forms and e-filing support.
100% free federal tax filing supporting over 100 IRS forms without income restrictions or aggressive upselling
FreeTaxUSA is a budget-friendly online tax filing service that offers free federal tax returns for most users, covering a wide array of forms and situations from simple W-2 income to investments and self-employment. State returns are available for a flat fee of $14.99, making it one of the most affordable options. It features an interview-style process with solid accuracy and import capabilities for prior-year data and some third-party forms.
Pros
- Completely free federal filing for nearly all supported forms
- Low flat fee of $14.99 for state returns
- Reliable customer support via email and phone
Cons
- Basic, no-frills interface compared to premium competitors
- Limited audit defense and live chat support
- Fewer direct import options from financial institutions
Best For
Cost-conscious DIY filers with straightforward to moderately complex returns who prioritize savings over polished design.
Pricing
Free federal filing; $14.99 per state; optional Deluxe edition with extra support for $7.99.
Cash App Taxes
specializedOffers completely free DIY tax filing for simple returns with direct deposit refunds and no upselling.
100% free federal and state tax filing with no hidden fees or product tiers
Cash App Taxes is a free online DIY tax filing service that enables users to prepare and e-file both federal and one state return without any cost. It supports a wide array of common tax forms, including W-2s, 1099s, itemized deductions, and popular credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit. The platform features an intuitive interview-style process, prior-year import capabilities from other services, and accuracy guarantees, making it a strong no-frills option for straightforward tax situations.
Pros
- Completely free federal and one state return with no income limits or upsells
- Easy import from prior-year returns including TurboTax and H&R Block
- User-friendly mobile and web interface with real-time refund estimates
Cons
- Limited to one free state return (additional states cost $40 each)
- No phone support, only email and chat
- Lacks advanced features for complex situations like multi-state filings or business income
Best For
Budget-conscious DIY filers with simple W-2 income, standard deductions, and one-state residency seeking a hassle-free, free filing experience.
Pricing
Free for federal and one state return; $40 per additional state.
TaxHawk
specializedSupports budget-friendly DIY tax preparation with 100% accuracy guarantee and free federal filing options.
Rock-bottom pricing for full federal and state e-filing without sacrificing core DIY functionality
TaxHawk is an affordable online DIY tax software that enables users to prepare and e-file federal and state tax returns for simple to moderately complex situations, including W-2 income, itemized deductions, and Schedule C for self-employed filers. It offers an accuracy guarantee and maximum refund assurance, with support for importing prior-year PDFs from other providers. As a budget option, it prioritizes cost savings over flashy interfaces or extensive support.
Pros
- Very low pricing compared to competitors
- Supports federal returns plus 44 states
- Accuracy guarantee and prior-year PDF import
Cons
- Email-only support with no phone or live chat
- Dated interface lacking modern polish
- No mobile app or audit defense services
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals and small business owners with straightforward to moderate tax needs who don't require hand-holding support.
Pricing
Federal returns from $19.95 (basic 1040) to $49.95 (deluxe with Schedule C); state returns $14.95-$19.95 extra.
1040.com
specializedSimplifies DIY tax returns for individuals and small businesses with flat-rate pricing and quick e-filing.
Lowest entry-level pricing in the market without hidden fees or upsells
1040.com is an affordable online DIY tax preparation software designed for filing federal Form 1040 and state returns electronically. It supports common income types like W-2s, 1099s, itemized deductions, and popular credits such as EITC and child tax credit. The platform offers a step-by-step interview process to guide users through data entry, error checks, and e-filing with IRS compliance.
Pros
- Extremely low pricing for federal and state filing
- Simple, no-frills interface ideal for beginners
- Fast e-filing with audit risk assessment
Cons
- Limited support for complex situations like investments or self-employment
- Basic customer service with no live chat or phone support
- Dated user interface lacking modern design
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals with straightforward W-2 income and standard deductions seeking quick, cheap filing.
Pricing
Federal returns $14.95, state returns $14.95; bundle discounts bring total under $30 for both.
OLT.com
specializedFacilitates low-cost online tax preparation and e-filing for standard DIY returns with live chat support.
Free state return filing bundled with qualifying free federal returns
OLT.com is an online DIY tax preparation software that enables users to file federal and state returns electronically with a focus on affordability. It provides a free option for simple returns qualifying under specific income and form criteria, while paid versions handle more complex scenarios like itemized deductions and self-employment income. The platform supports numerous IRS forms, prior-year data import, and basic audit support, making it suitable for budget-conscious filers.
Pros
- Highly affordable with free federal and state filing for qualifying simple returns
- Supports a wide range of tax forms and all 50 states
- Straightforward interface with step-by-step guidance
Cons
- Dated user interface compared to top competitors
- Limited advanced import options and integrations
- Less comprehensive help resources for very complex returns
Best For
Budget-minded individuals with simple to moderately complex tax situations seeking free or low-cost filing.
Pricing
Free for qualifying simple federal/state returns; paid plans start at $14.99 (Deluxe) up to $49.99 (Premium) including state.
eSmart Tax
specializedProvides inexpensive DIY tax software with form-based entry and basic refund maximization tools.
Unlimited free federal e-filing for qualifying simple returns, making it accessible for basic users
eSmart Tax is a budget-friendly online DIY tax software designed for individuals and small businesses to prepare and e-file federal and state income tax returns. It supports a variety of common tax situations, including W-2 income, self-employment, investments, and rental properties through step-by-step guidance. The platform emphasizes affordability with free federal filing options for simple returns and competitive paid tiers for more complex filings.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with free federal filing for simple returns
- Supports multiple states and common schedules (A-E)
- Includes audit protection and prior-year import
Cons
- Dated interface less intuitive than top competitors
- Limited live support options (mostly email/chat)
- Fewer advanced tools for very complex situations like foreign income
Best For
Budget-conscious DIY filers with straightforward to moderately complex U.S. tax returns seeking value over premium polish.
Pricing
Free federal for simple 1040; paid plans from $14.95 (federal) + $14.95/state, up to $49.95 for premium bundles.
Conclusion
After evaluating the top tools, TurboTax emerges as the clear winner, guiding users through complex filings with intuitive interviews and import features. H&R Block follows closely, offering robust expert support and audit assistance for those needing hands-on help, while TaxAct impresses with its affordability and strong deduction tools, perfect for budget-conscious filers.
Ready to file with ease? Start with TurboTax to navigate even the trickiest tax scenarios—if you prefer support or affordability, H&R Block and TaxAct are excellent alternatives that deliver results tailored to your needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.