Quick Overview
- 1#1: TurboTax - User-friendly tax preparation software with guided interviews, audit defense, and maximum refund guarantees for individuals and businesses.
- 2#2: H&R Block - Comprehensive online and in-person tax filing service offering expert support, accuracy guarantees, and Worry-Free Audit Support.
- 3#3: TaxAct - Affordable tax software with robust features for complex returns, including import from prior years and Xpert Assist live help.
- 4#4: TaxSlayer - Cost-effective DIY tax filing platform with unlimited live support options and strong mobile app for simple to moderate returns.
- 5#5: Cash App Taxes - Free federal and state tax filing service for most users, powered by former Credit Karma Tax, with easy import from financial apps.
- 6#6: FreeTaxUSA - Low-cost federal e-filing with optional state returns, supporting all major forms and prior-year imports for budget-conscious filers.
- 7#7: TaxHawk - Economical tax preparation tool from the makers of FreeTaxUSA, offering Deluxe support for itemized deductions and business income.
- 8#8: Drake Tax - Professional-grade tax software with advanced e-filing, bank integration, and compliance tools for CPAs and tax pros.
- 9#9: Lacerte - High-end professional tax preparation software by Intuit, featuring automation, diagnostics, and seamless integration with QuickBooks.
- 10#10: ProSeries - Reliable professional tax software with strong data management, error checks, and support for complex returns from Intuit.
We ranked tools based on user experience, feature depth (including audit support and data import capabilities), reliability, and value, balancing accessibility with power to reflect the best options for both individual filers and tax professionals.
Comparison Table
Navigating tax software can be overwhelming, but this comparison table compares top options including TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, TaxSlayer, Cash App Taxes, and more. Read on to discover key features, user-friendliness, pricing, and support capabilities to find the best fit for your filing needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TurboTax User-friendly tax preparation software with guided interviews, audit defense, and maximum refund guarantees for individuals and businesses. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | H&R Block Comprehensive online and in-person tax filing service offering expert support, accuracy guarantees, and Worry-Free Audit Support. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Affordable tax software with robust features for complex returns, including import from prior years and Xpert Assist live help. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 4 | TaxSlayer Cost-effective DIY tax filing platform with unlimited live support options and strong mobile app for simple to moderate returns. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | Cash App Taxes Free federal and state tax filing service for most users, powered by former Credit Karma Tax, with easy import from financial apps. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 6 | FreeTaxUSA Low-cost federal e-filing with optional state returns, supporting all major forms and prior-year imports for budget-conscious filers. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 7 | TaxHawk Economical tax preparation tool from the makers of FreeTaxUSA, offering Deluxe support for itemized deductions and business income. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 8 | Drake Tax Professional-grade tax software with advanced e-filing, bank integration, and compliance tools for CPAs and tax pros. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 9 | Lacerte High-end professional tax preparation software by Intuit, featuring automation, diagnostics, and seamless integration with QuickBooks. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | ProSeries Reliable professional tax software with strong data management, error checks, and support for complex returns from Intuit. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
User-friendly tax preparation software with guided interviews, audit defense, and maximum refund guarantees for individuals and businesses.
Comprehensive online and in-person tax filing service offering expert support, accuracy guarantees, and Worry-Free Audit Support.
Affordable tax software with robust features for complex returns, including import from prior years and Xpert Assist live help.
Cost-effective DIY tax filing platform with unlimited live support options and strong mobile app for simple to moderate returns.
Free federal and state tax filing service for most users, powered by former Credit Karma Tax, with easy import from financial apps.
Low-cost federal e-filing with optional state returns, supporting all major forms and prior-year imports for budget-conscious filers.
Economical tax preparation tool from the makers of FreeTaxUSA, offering Deluxe support for itemized deductions and business income.
Professional-grade tax software with advanced e-filing, bank integration, and compliance tools for CPAs and tax pros.
High-end professional tax preparation software by Intuit, featuring automation, diagnostics, and seamless integration with QuickBooks.
Reliable professional tax software with strong data management, error checks, and support for complex returns from Intuit.
TurboTax
specializedUser-friendly tax preparation software with guided interviews, audit defense, and maximum refund guarantees for individuals and businesses.
Live Assisted Deluxe/Premium, offering on-demand chat or callback with CPA-certified experts during tax prep
TurboTax is a leading tax preparation software that simplifies filing federal and state income taxes through an intuitive, step-by-step interview process tailored to individual situations. It handles everything from simple W-2 returns to complex scenarios like self-employment, investments, rentals, and cryptocurrency. The platform imports data from financial institutions, calculates deductions automatically, and provides access to live tax experts for real-time assistance.
Pros
- Exceptionally user-friendly interface with guided navigation
- Comprehensive support for all tax forms and complex situations
- Seamless data import from banks, employers, and investment accounts
- Live expert help, audit defense, and accuracy guarantees
Cons
- Higher pricing for advanced features compared to competitors
- Frequent upsells during the filing process
- Free version limited to very simple returns
Best For
Users with moderately complex tax situations, such as homeowners, investors, or freelancers, who prioritize ease and expert support over cost.
Pricing
Free Edition for simple 1040 returns; Deluxe ($59+), Premier ($89+), and Self-Employed ($119+) for federal, plus $39-49 per state file.
H&R Block
specializedComprehensive online and in-person tax filing service offering expert support, accuracy guarantees, and Worry-Free Audit Support.
Seamless integration with H&R Block's nationwide network of tax professionals for real-time advice or in-person handoff
H&R Block Online is a robust tax preparation platform that supports federal and state filing for a wide range of tax situations, from simple W-2 returns to complex self-employment and investment income. It features step-by-step guidance, error checks, and import tools for prior-year returns and financial accounts. Users also benefit from optional live expert assistance and the ability to escalate to in-person support at thousands of H&R Block locations.
Pros
- Extensive support options including live chat, phone, and in-person tax pros
- Strong accuracy guarantees and audit defense
- Handles complex deductions like rentals, investments, and self-employment well
Cons
- Additional fees for state returns and add-ons can increase costs
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to flashier competitors
- Aggressive upsells during the filing process
Best For
Tax filers seeking reliable DIY software with easy access to professional backup for peace of mind.
Pricing
Free Edition for basic returns; Deluxe ($35+ federal, $37 state); Premium & Self-Employed ($65-$115+ federal, plus state fees).
TaxAct
specializedAffordable tax software with robust features for complex returns, including import from prior years and Xpert Assist live help.
Downloadable desktop version for secure, offline filing with no internet required
TaxAct is a reliable online and desktop tax preparation software that enables users to file federal and multiple state returns with support for a wide array of IRS forms and schedules. It offers tiered editions from Free for simple 1040 returns to Self-Employed for business filers, including tools like deduction maximizers and live expert assistance. The platform emphasizes affordability and accuracy, backed by a maximum refund guarantee and audit support options.
Pros
- Exceptionally low pricing compared to competitors
- Comprehensive support for complex forms and schedules
- Strong accuracy guarantees and audit defense
Cons
- User interface feels dated and less intuitive
- Limited guidance for very complex situations
- Mobile app lacks full functionality
Best For
Cost-conscious DIY filers with moderately complex returns who want reliable form coverage without premium pricing.
Pricing
Free for simple returns; federal filing from $0-$64.99 + $39.99-$64.99 per state; bundles available.
TaxSlayer
specializedCost-effective DIY tax filing platform with unlimited live support options and strong mobile app for simple to moderate returns.
Unlimited live phone support from tax professionals included in all paid plans
TaxSlayer is an affordable online tax preparation software that enables users to file federal and state tax returns with support for a wide range of tax situations, from simple W-2 income to self-employment and investments. It offers tiered plans including a free option for basic filers, making it accessible for DIY users who want professional support without high costs. The platform emphasizes straightforward navigation and unlimited customer assistance via phone and chat.
Pros
- Exceptional value with low pricing across plans
- Unlimited phone and chat support from tax experts
- Handles complex returns like Schedule C for self-employed
Cons
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to competitors
- Limited automated import options for prior-year data
- Less hand-holding guidance for beginners
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with moderately complex returns who appreciate accessible expert support.
Pricing
Free for simple Form 1040; Classic ($37 federal + $47 state), Premium ($51 federal + $47 state), Self-Employed ($85 federal + $47 state).
Cash App Taxes
specializedFree federal and state tax filing service for most users, powered by former Credit Karma Tax, with easy import from financial apps.
Fully free filing for both federal and one state return with zero hidden fees
Cash App Taxes is a free online tax preparation service that enables users to file federal and state tax returns without any cost. It handles common scenarios like W-2 wages, unemployment income, student loan interest, and some self-employment income via Schedule C. Integrated with the Cash App mobile platform, it offers quick refund deposits and a straightforward filing process for everyday taxpayers.
Pros
- Completely free federal and state filing with no upsells
- Intuitive mobile-first interface with step-by-step guidance
- Fast direct deposit refunds to Cash App balance
Cons
- Limited support for complex forms like rental income or multiple states
- Customer support restricted to email and FAQs, no live help
- Not ideal for itemized deductions or advanced business scenarios
Best For
W-2 employees and gig workers with simple returns seeking a no-cost filing option.
Pricing
100% free for federal and state returns in supported states; no paid upgrades.
FreeTaxUSA
specializedLow-cost federal e-filing with optional state returns, supporting all major forms and prior-year imports for budget-conscious filers.
Unlimited free federal e-filing with no income limits or form restrictions
FreeTaxUSA is an affordable online tax preparation platform that offers free federal tax filing for all users, supporting nearly all IRS forms and schedules regardless of income or complexity. It handles everything from simple 1040s to itemized deductions, self-employment income, and investments. State returns are available for a low fee, with optional deluxe upgrades for added support.
Pros
- Free federal filing for all forms and complexities
- Low-cost state returns at $14.99
- Comprehensive support for deductions, credits, and schedules
Cons
- Dated interface compared to competitors
- Email-only customer support, no live chat
- No dedicated mobile app
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals and families seeking reliable, low-cost tax filing for moderately complex returns.
Pricing
Free federal filing; $14.99 per state return; $7.99 Deluxe upgrade for priority support and audit assistance.
TaxHawk
specializedEconomical tax preparation tool from the makers of FreeTaxUSA, offering Deluxe support for itemized deductions and business income.
Guaranteed lowest price: Matches any competitor's lower price for equivalent features or makes your return free.
TaxHawk is an affordable online tax preparation software that simplifies filing federal and select state income taxes through a step-by-step interview process. It supports a wide range of common forms and schedules for individuals with straightforward to moderately complex returns, including deductions, credits, and itemization. With strong guarantees on accuracy, maximum refunds, and pricing, it's a reliable choice for cost-conscious users avoiding premium-priced alternatives.
Pros
- Exceptionally low pricing with a guaranteed lowest price policy
- Strong accuracy and maximum refund guarantees
- Straightforward interface suitable for most common tax situations
Cons
- Limited support for some states and highly complex scenarios
- Dated interface compared to flashier competitors
- Fewer advanced import tools and mobile optimizations
Best For
Budget-minded filers with simple to moderate tax situations who prioritize value over premium features.
Pricing
Federal returns from $14.95 (short form) to $64.95 (deluxe); state returns $14.95-$36.95 extra; free federal e-file for simple returns.
Drake Tax
enterpriseProfessional-grade tax software with advanced e-filing, bank integration, and compliance tools for CPAs and tax pros.
Unlimited, free 24/7 technical support during tax season, with phone, chat, and email options
Drake Tax is professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for CPAs, enrolled agents, and tax firms, supporting federal, state, and local returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and more. It provides comprehensive form libraries, automated calculations, e-filing, and bank product integrations to streamline workflows. With a focus on reliability and affordability, it's widely used by preparers handling moderate to high volumes of returns.
Pros
- Extensive form and state support covering all 50 states plus DC
- Unlimited free customer support year-round
- Competitive per-return or unlimited pricing model
Cons
- Dated interface that feels clunky compared to modern alternatives
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Limited integrations with third-party practice management tools
Best For
Established tax professionals or small to mid-sized firms seeking reliable, cost-effective software with strong support for high-volume returns.
Pricing
Pay-per-return starting at $399 for 100 returns, or unlimited federal/state packages from $1,495; additional states and features available as add-ons.
Lacerte
enterpriseHigh-end professional tax preparation software by Intuit, featuring automation, diagnostics, and seamless integration with QuickBooks.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors, omissions, and audit risks across returns
Lacerte is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Intuit, designed for CPAs and tax professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns. It provides extensive support for federal and state forms, automated calculations, e-filing, and robust diagnostics to minimize errors. The software integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and offers tools for high-volume practices, including batch processing and client organizers.
Pros
- Comprehensive library of over 9,000 forms and schedules
- Powerful error-checking diagnostics and audit risk alerts
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High cost, especially for smaller firms
- Limited customization options compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms or CPAs dealing with complex, high-volume returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $3,000-$5,000 annually per user for unlimited returns, with per-return options available; additional fees for state modules and e-filing.
ProSeries
enterpriseReliable professional tax software with strong data management, error checks, and support for complex returns from Intuit.
Smart Worksheet technology for intuitive navigation and automated data flow across complex returns
ProSeries by Intuit is a professional tax preparation software tailored for accountants, CPAs, and tax firms handling individual, business, and partnership returns. It provides comprehensive support for federal and state forms, advanced calculations, depreciation tools, and seamless e-filing capabilities. Designed for high-volume practices, it includes data import from QuickBooks and robust error-checking features to ensure accuracy.
Pros
- Extensive support for complex forms and schedules
- Reliable e-filing with fast processing
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for client data
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to consumer options
- Desktop-based requiring local installation and updates
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
Best For
Experienced tax professionals and firms managing high volumes of business and individual returns.
Pricing
Starts at $449/year for unlimited federal returns; additional state programs $200-$500 each, with per-return pricing available.
Conclusion
The reviewed tax software spans user-friendly DIY tools to professional-grade solutions, each suited to unique needs. TurboTax takes the top spot, praised for its intuitive guided support and strong guarantees, while H&R Block and TaxAct stand out as alternatives—H&R Block for comprehensive service and TaxAct for affordable, complex return handling. With options for nearly every filer, the best choice hinges on priorities, but TurboTax emerges as a standout for its streamlined, reliable experience.
Don’t let tax filing stress you out—try TurboTax today. Its easy guided process and robust features make it a top pick for individuals seeking simplicity and peace of mind, turning tax preparation into a manageable task.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison