Quick Overview
- 1#1: TurboTax - Downloadable desktop tax software that provides expert guidance to maximize refunds and handle complex tax situations.
- 2#2: H&R Block - Comprehensive downloadable tax preparation software with built-in audit support and live expert help.
- 3#3: TaxAct - Affordable desktop tax filing software offering accuracy guarantees and powerful deduction maximization tools.
- 4#4: TaxSlayer Pro - Professional downloadable tax software designed for preparers with efficient e-filing and client management features.
- 5#5: Drake Software - Robust desktop tax preparation software for professionals featuring fast calculations and extensive form support.
- 6#6: ProSeries - Professional-grade downloadable tax software with advanced diagnostics and seamless integration for complex returns.
- 7#7: Lacerte - High-performance desktop tax solution for tax pros with superior speed and customization options.
- 8#8: UltraTax CS - Integrated professional tax software with downloadable components for streamlined workflows and compliance.
- 9#9: CCH ProSystem fx Tax - Enterprise-level desktop tax preparation software offering deep customization and firm-wide scalability.
- 10#10: TaxWise - Reliable downloadable tax software for small practices with intuitive interface and strong e-file capabilities.
We selected and ranked these tools by assessing performance across core metrics: robust feature functionality, proven reliability, intuitive user experience, and strong value, ensuring they cater to both casual users and tax professionals with varying requirements.
Comparison Table
Choosing the right download tax software is simplified with this comparison table, which features tools like TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, TaxSlayer Pro, Drake Software, and more to help you evaluate options effectively. Readers will gain clarity on key aspects such as features, ease of use, pricing, and supported tax types, enabling them to select the best fit for their filing needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TurboTax Downloadable desktop tax software that provides expert guidance to maximize refunds and handle complex tax situations. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | H&R Block Comprehensive downloadable tax preparation software with built-in audit support and live expert help. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Affordable desktop tax filing software offering accuracy guarantees and powerful deduction maximization tools. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 4 | TaxSlayer Pro Professional downloadable tax software designed for preparers with efficient e-filing and client management features. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 5 | Drake Software Robust desktop tax preparation software for professionals featuring fast calculations and extensive form support. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 6 | ProSeries Professional-grade downloadable tax software with advanced diagnostics and seamless integration for complex returns. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | Lacerte High-performance desktop tax solution for tax pros with superior speed and customization options. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | UltraTax CS Integrated professional tax software with downloadable components for streamlined workflows and compliance. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | CCH ProSystem fx Tax Enterprise-level desktop tax preparation software offering deep customization and firm-wide scalability. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | TaxWise Reliable downloadable tax software for small practices with intuitive interface and strong e-file capabilities. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
Downloadable desktop tax software that provides expert guidance to maximize refunds and handle complex tax situations.
Comprehensive downloadable tax preparation software with built-in audit support and live expert help.
Affordable desktop tax filing software offering accuracy guarantees and powerful deduction maximization tools.
Professional downloadable tax software designed for preparers with efficient e-filing and client management features.
Robust desktop tax preparation software for professionals featuring fast calculations and extensive form support.
Professional-grade downloadable tax software with advanced diagnostics and seamless integration for complex returns.
High-performance desktop tax solution for tax pros with superior speed and customization options.
Integrated professional tax software with downloadable components for streamlined workflows and compliance.
Enterprise-level desktop tax preparation software offering deep customization and firm-wide scalability.
Reliable downloadable tax software for small practices with intuitive interface and strong e-file capabilities.
TurboTax
specializedDownloadable desktop tax software that provides expert guidance to maximize refunds and handle complex tax situations.
Step-by-step interview guidance powered by tax experts, mimicking a personal CPA consultation
TurboTax Download Tax Software is a leading desktop application for preparing and e-filing U.S. federal and state income taxes on Windows and Mac. It offers tiered editions like Deluxe, Premier, and Self-Employed, guiding users through an intuitive interview process that imports data from W-2s, 1099s, and prior returns. The software handles complex scenarios including investments, rental properties, and business income, with guarantees for accuracy and maximum refunds.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all major tax forms and complex situations
- Seamless data import from financial institutions and prior years
- Robust guarantees including 100% accuracy and maximum refund
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to online-only alternatives
- Additional fees for state returns and live support
- Occasional upselling prompts during the filing process
Best For
Individuals and small business owners with moderately complex tax situations who want a powerful offline desktop experience.
Pricing
Free Edition for simple returns; Deluxe ($60+), Premier ($90+), Self-Employed ($120+); state returns extra (~$45).
H&R Block
specializedComprehensive downloadable tax preparation software with built-in audit support and live expert help.
Worry-Free Audit Support, providing full representation in IRS audits at no extra cost
H&R Block's download tax software offers a robust desktop application for Windows and Mac users to prepare and e-file federal and multiple state returns. It comes in tiered editions like Deluxe, Premium & Business, and Self-Employed, handling everything from simple W-2s to complex scenarios involving investments, rental income, and business deductions. The software includes step-by-step interviews, automatic error checks, import capabilities from prior years or TurboTax, and guarantees for maximum refunds and accuracy.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for complex tax forms and deductions
- Maximum Refund and 100% Accuracy Guarantees with audit support
- Seamless data import from PDFs, prior returns, and wage slips
Cons
- State returns require additional fees per state
- Higher upfront cost compared to free online alternatives
- Desktop-only requires installation and local storage
Best For
Taxpayers with investments, self-employment, or rental properties who want a reliable desktop tool with expert-backed guarantees.
Pricing
Free for simple 1040; Deluxe ~$35 federal + $37/state; Premium ~$55 federal + $37/state; Self-Employed ~$85 federal + $37/state (prices approximate, early-bird discounts available).
TaxAct
specializedAffordable desktop tax filing software offering accuracy guarantees and powerful deduction maximization tools.
Perpetual desktop license with no subscription required, allowing unlimited offline use and prior-year compatibility
TaxAct's download software is a desktop-based tax preparation program that enables users to file federal and multiple state returns offline with full access to IRS forms and schedules. It supports simple W-2 filings up to complex scenarios like investments, rentals, and self-employment income, with tools for importing prior-year PDFs and optimizing deductions. The software includes e-filing, printing, and free audit defense, making it a cost-effective alternative to online-only platforms.
Pros
- Exceptionally low pricing for comprehensive coverage
- Supports over 120 IRS forms and schedules
- Includes free audit risk assessment and defense
Cons
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- Limited interactive guidance for very complex situations
- State modules sold separately at extra cost
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with moderate to complex returns who prefer offline desktop software over cloud-based options.
Pricing
Free for basic 1040 returns; Deluxe $39.99, Premier $64.99, Self-Employed $99.99 (federal); state add-ons ~$39.99 each.
TaxSlayer Pro
enterpriseProfessional downloadable tax software designed for preparers with efficient e-filing and client management features.
Unlimited e-filing for federal returns and all supported states at no extra cost per return
TaxSlayer Pro is a downloadable desktop tax preparation software designed specifically for professional tax preparers, accountants, and CPAs. It supports comprehensive federal and state return preparation for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and estates, with features like electronic filing, client organizers, and practice management tools. The software emphasizes reliability and efficiency for high-volume filers, including unlimited e-filing and robust form libraries covering thousands of IRS forms.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with excellent value for high-volume users
- Unlimited federal and state e-filing included
- Comprehensive support for complex forms and multi-state returns
Cons
- User interface appears dated compared to modern competitors
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Limited integrations with external accounting software
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax preparation firms and independent preparers prioritizing cost savings and reliable e-filing without needing advanced cloud features.
Pricing
Annual pricing starts at around $1,295 for up to 100 returns, scaling to higher tiers for more volume; includes unlimited e-filing, updates, and support.
Drake Software
enterpriseRobust desktop tax preparation software for professionals featuring fast calculations and extensive form support.
Seamless integration with Drake Bank Products for instant refund processing and client financing.
Drake Software is a robust, downloadable desktop tax preparation solution tailored for professional tax preparers, supporting federal, state, and local returns for individuals, businesses, and fiduciaries. It offers unlimited e-filing, a comprehensive forms library covering over 95% of tax situations, and integrated tools for data import and client management. With strong emphasis on reliability and efficiency, it's widely used in tax offices for high-volume preparation.
Pros
- Extensive forms library with automatic updates
- Exceptional 24/7 customer support via phone and chat
- Unlimited e-filing and client returns per license
Cons
- Dated Windows-only interface lacking modern web/mobile features
- Initial setup and learning curve for new users
- Additional fees for state modules and advanced add-ons
Best For
Experienced tax professionals and small to mid-sized firms prioritizing comprehensive desktop functionality and cost efficiency over cloud accessibility.
Pricing
Base package starts at $495 per preparer for federal returns; full suites with states range $1,200-$2,000 annually, including unlimited e-files.
ProSeries
enterpriseProfessional-grade downloadable tax software with advanced diagnostics and seamless integration for complex returns.
Advanced ProView diagnostics that automatically detect errors, suggest optimizations, and ensure compliance across thousands of forms
ProSeries by Intuit is a professional desktop tax preparation software designed for accountants and tax pros handling complex returns. It offers comprehensive coverage of federal and state forms, including individual, business, and fiduciary taxes, with tools for e-filing, diagnostics, and data import from prior years. As a downloadable Windows-based solution, it provides high performance for high-volume practices without relying on cloud connectivity.
Pros
- Extensive form library covering complex scenarios like depreciation and multi-state filings
- Reliable high-volume e-filing with excellent acceptance rates
- Robust diagnostics and error-checking tools to minimize rejections
Cons
- Steep pricing for small practices, with states and modules extra
- Windows-only desktop app with no native mobile support
- Learning curve for non-expert users despite intuitive interface improvements
Best For
Accounting firms and tax professionals managing high volumes of intricate business and individual returns.
Pricing
Basic edition starts at $449/year for unlimited federal returns; state programs $235+ each, with bundles up to $3,000+ for full professional suites.
Lacerte
enterpriseHigh-performance desktop tax solution for tax pros with superior speed and customization options.
Advanced Diagnostics engine that scans returns in real-time for errors, missed deductions, and compliance issues
Lacerte Tax is a robust desktop tax preparation software from Intuit, designed for professional tax preparers, CPAs, and accountants handling complex federal, state, and local returns for individuals, businesses, estates, and trusts. It offers comprehensive form support, advanced calculations, e-filing capabilities, and integration with client management tools. The software emphasizes accuracy through its diagnostics engine and supports high-volume workflows with customizable inputs and reporting.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 10,000 forms and scenarios with automatic updates
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking for compliance and optimization
- Seamless e-filing, direct deposit, and integration with Intuit ecosystem
Cons
- High subscription costs that scale with add-ons and users
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for beginners
- Windows-only desktop app with significant hardware requirements
Best For
Experienced CPAs and mid-to-large tax firms managing complex, high-volume returns.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$419 for unlimited 1040s, plus $219+ per state, with extras for payroll (~$1,200) and multi-user licenses up to several thousand dollars.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseIntegrated professional tax software with downloadable components for streamlined workflows and compliance.
Powerful built-in diagnostics and quality review tools that proactively identify errors and compliance issues
UltraTax CS is a professional desktop tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters designed for CPAs, accounting firms, and tax preparers handling complex returns. It supports federal, state, and local tax forms for individuals, businesses, partnerships, corporations, estates, and trusts, with features like automated calculations, diagnostics, and e-filing. The software integrates with other CS Suite tools for practice management and offers robust data import/export capabilities.
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of all federal and state forms with automatic updates
- Advanced diagnostics and error-checking for high accuracy
- Seamless integration with CS Professional Suite for workflow efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs relative to volume
- Resource-heavy requiring powerful hardware
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms and CPAs managing high volumes of complex business and individual tax returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom pricing starting around $2,500-$5,000 per preparer annually, scaling by modules, return volume, and firm size; requires quote.
CCH ProSystem fx Tax
enterpriseEnterprise-level desktop tax preparation software offering deep customization and firm-wide scalability.
Intelligent Diagnostics engine that scans returns for errors, optimizations, and compliance risks in real-time
CCH ProSystem fx Tax is a robust desktop tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, tailored for professional accountants and CPAs handling complex federal and state returns. It supports individual, business, partnership, S-corp, C-corp, fiduciary, and nonprofit forms with advanced calculations and e-filing. The software emphasizes accuracy through diagnostics, custom organizers, and integration with practice management tools, making it suitable for high-volume firms.
Pros
- Extensive library of federal and state forms with automatic updates
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking for compliance
- Strong integration with CCH Axcess suite and source document processing
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- High cost prohibitive for small practices
- Desktop installation requires significant hardware resources and maintenance
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms and CPAs managing high-volume, complex tax returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based; starts at ~$3,500 per preparer/year, scales with modules and volume (custom quotes required).
TaxWise
enterpriseReliable downloadable tax software for small practices with intuitive interface and strong e-file capabilities.
Intelligent Diagnostics engine that scans returns for errors, optimizations, and compliance issues in real-time
TaxWise is a professional desktop tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, designed for tax pros to prepare and e-file federal and state returns for individuals, businesses, and fiduciaries. It offers extensive form support, automated calculations, diagnostics, and integration with billing and client management tools. As a downloadable solution, it provides unlimited client capacity with reliable performance for high-volume practices.
Pros
- Comprehensive federal and multi-state form library
- Reliable e-filing with unlimited returns
- Built-in diagnostics and error-checking tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Outdated interface compared to cloud competitors
- High pricing with additional fees for states and modules
Best For
Experienced tax professionals managing high-volume, complex returns in a desktop environment.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $1,500 for federal single-user, plus $300+ per state and extra for business modules.
Conclusion
The top tools offer diverse strengths, with TurboTax leading as the top choice for its expert guidance to maximize refunds and handle complex situations. H&R Block and TaxAct follow closely—H&R Block with robust audit support and live help, and TaxAct with affordability and accuracy guarantees, ensuring there’s a strong option for various needs.
Ready to simplify your tax filing? TurboTax remains the best pick for its reliable, comprehensive support—start using its tools today to ease the process and secure the most from your return.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison