Taxes don’t have to be a chore – with the right tax filing program, you can make managing your taxes easier than ever! Our Best Tax Software Companies of 2023 guide will help inform you which software is best for you and ensure that every step of your financial journey from planning throughout the year all the way through quarterly filings runs smoothly. Don’t get stuck in an endless loop of confusing paperwork – choose one of our eight recommended programs today and start feeling organized about finances tomorrow!
Best Tax Software Companies
- TurboTax: Best for beginners
- TaxSlayer: Best for multiple pricing options
- TaxAct: Best for quick, hassle-free filing
- H&R Block: Best for in-person tax support
- Cash App Taxes: Best for free tax preparation
- Jackson Hewitt: Best for complicated tax situations
- Liberty Tax: Best for online tax support
- FreeTaxUSA: Best for simple returns
Turbo Tax
For almost 40 years, Intuit has been providing software services to customers around the world – now over 100 million strong! From their flagship product TurboTax and its maximum refund guarantee to QuickBooks, Credit Karma, MailChimp & Mint; they continue to innovate and provide trusted solutions for individuals. Aimed at simplifying tax preparation not only with a user-friendly interface but also via mobile app functionality which auto-fills information after taking pictures of W2s—making it easy and quick while helping identify potential deductions along the way.
TurboTax offers several different tax software packages at different prices, including the following:
Turbo Tax Free Edition
With the free edition, you’re able to quickly and easily file your federal and state taxes – no strings attached! This version covers most of what’s needed for basic tax filing including wages from W-2s as well as certain credits such as the earned income tax credit or child tax credit. Though not all taxpayers qualify, this option is perfect for those with a simple return who just need to breeze through their annual paperwork without added complications.
Turbo Tax Deluxe
The Deluxe Edition of TurboTax is the most widely used tax filing service, and for good reason! It covers all your essential financial needs like W-2s or 1099s without business expenses – it can even help you get more out of deductions related to properties, charities, student loans, and educational costs. Plus with a health savings account contribution as well as access to retirement planning tools from within this one package? Now that’s what we call value for money at its finest.
Turbo Tax Premier
With TurboTax Premier, you get all of the Deluxe version’s features and more. You can benefit from auto-imports for your investments as well as assistance with stocks, bonds, robo-investing, cryptocurrencies, or rental property income – so investing at any level is possible! Not to mention that one on one help through a live specialist coupled with scanning of your return ensure everything will be taken care of effectively and confidently. All this comes at just $69 for federal returns plus an additional $39 per state return – amazing value!
Turbo Tax Self Employed
With TurboTax Self-Employed, you get the convenience of TurboTax Deluxe plus special features developed specifically for contractors, freelancers, and small business owners. You’ll enjoy deductions customized to your industry with one-on-one support from self-employment specialists. Plus mileage tracking, job monitoring tools & expense deduction guidance – all for just $89 Federal +$39 per state return! And don’t forget about the time savings – we make it easy to import information directly from your 1099 forms via a simple picture upload feature!
TaxSlayer
TaxSlayer has been in the filing biz for over 57 years and is no stranger to the tax game. This year, the company filed 10 million federal and state returns – a record-breaking number! They even offer an impressive guarantee of accuracy alongside their maximum refund promise so you can rest assured your return will be done right with Taxslayer’s assistance. Plus, it couldn’t be easier to file; all you need is any device – computer or phone – regardless of location! Finally, what really sets them apart are their four different pricing structures that beat out several other programs on cost alone without compromising on quality — now THAT’S value for money.
TaxSlayer Simply Free
With Simply Free, you can file your federal and state taxes at no cost! Get the financial support you need with W-2 income reporting, student loan interest deductions as well as education expense coverage. And if that wasn’t enough – best of all? You’ll also enjoy free phone or email assistance whenever necessary.
TaxSlayer Classic
With Classic, you’ll be able to maximize your tax refunds with all the credits and deductions that apply. With a federal return set at only $19.95 plus an extra $39.95 per state return, it’s never been easier or more affordable to get your taxes done right! Track income on the go via direct W-2 import along with access to every type of taxable income available — no matter how complex they may seem—so you can rest easy knowing it’s secure in our capable hands!
TaxSlayer Premium
For just $39.95, the Premium program offers everything from our Classic version and more! You’ll get up to three years of expert tax audit help plus priority support when you need it most – through live chat or Ask a Tax Pro services. And for an additional fee per state return, your filing season will be smoother than ever before!
TaxSlayer Self-Employed
Self-employed individuals can receive comprehensive assistance in their tax returns with the self-employment program. For only $49.95, they get access to features such as a specialized expert helping maximize deductions and 1099 income guidance, along with reminders on quarterly payments plus year-round advice when needed – all that other programs offer included!
TaxAct
TaxAct has been a trusted companion to millions of taxpayers since 2000, with over 65 million federal tax returns filed using its software. With the $100K accuracy guarantee and comprehensive assistance claiming credits/deductions, TaxAct is committed to getting you your maximum refund in record time! Not only that but unlike TurboTax it also provides simple planning tools like the detail on your tax bracket as well as an estimate calculator for what you owe or can get back – all wrapped up into one convenient program!
TaxAct provides three different pricing tiers, including the following:
Tax Act Free Version
TaxAct’s free version is the perfect solution for those seeking cost-effective filing of simple tax returns. Whether you’re a first-time filer or looking to import your last year’s return, TaxAct has you covered with an array of useful features such as W2 income, dependents information, and retirement benefits all without breaking the bank – but be aware that there may still be additional fees depending on your state!
Tax Act Deluxe Version
Deluxe is the perfect solution for those looking to take their tax filing experience up a notch. For just $24.95, you’ll get all of what’s included with the free version plus itemized deductions, credits for child and dependent care costs, mortgage interest deductions, student loan interest deductions – even assistance planning an adoption! Plus enjoy access to phone support from experienced tax specialists so there’s never any guesswork when it comes time to prepare your return. And if you’re in multiple states? Not a problem: simply pay an additional $44.95 per state return and Deluxe covers everything!
Tax Act Premier Version
For those needing all the features of TaxAct’s services, the Premier version offers an exceptional value at just $34.95 for federal returns and $44.95 per state return! This premium package includes top-notch support with screen sharing in addition to coverage of investments, rental properties, foreign accounts, Schedule K-1 income, and royalties – everything you need for a worry-free tax season experience! If you’re self-employed or own a small business there is even better news: TaxAct’s Self-Employed package provides expanded resources tailored specifically to freelancers and entrepreneurs –– all while maintaining that unbeatable price tag (plus only $44.95 each time you file your taxes).
H&R Block
For more than 65 years, H&R Block has been serving America by providing the best tax service available. With over 800 million returns done and franchise locations in every state of our nation, you can trust that this company is here to make sure your taxes are correct – ensuring a happy return come April 15th! Get help from an expert at one of their retail stores or online with remote assistance while completing your filing quickly and accurately. Whether it’s a face-to-face appointment for as little as $80 or just dropping off documents for them to complete, worry not when trusting H&R Block during Tax Season!
H&R Block offers multiple pricing structures, including the following:
H&R Block Free Online
File your taxes worry-free with H&R Block’s free online program! It requires no payment and provides a comprehensive solution to getting the most out of tax season. From W-2 income, unemployment benefits, and earned income credit – all the way up to tuition fee statements for students or child and dependent care expenses – you’ll get it all plus on-top access to technical support via chat when you need it.
H&R Block Deluxe Online
Deluxe Online makes filing taxes easy and accurate. For just $35 you get all the features that are necessary for a smooth, stress-free tax season! DeductionPro helps maximize your donations; take advantage of credits and deductions such as home mortgage interest or real estate taxes; make HSA contributions with ease – plus store returns up to six years down the track. And should any queries arise, expert assistance is available via our exclusive H&R Block Online Assist live chat tool. Get ready to save yourself time this tax year with Deluxe online now!
H&R Block Premium Online
Unlock your financial freedom with Premium Online! For only $55, you can enjoy everything the Deluxe Online offers plus additional features such as freelance and independent contractor income tracking, deducting simple business expenses at will, and managing stocks bonds, and investments to expand potential returns. Contribute more towards retirement planning by taking advantage of tax deductions for rental properties – never worry about missing details again when our expense tracker app does all the work for you!
H&R Block Self-Employed Online
For those who run their own business, Self-Employed Online is the perfect way to make filing taxes easy and stress-free. For just $85 plus an extra fee for each state return needed, this version of online tax prep offers everything included in lower-priced versions as well as specialized options such as importing Uber driver information or tracking self-employment income & deductions. Plus enjoy fast asset depreciation calculations!
Cash App Taxes
When it comes to filing your taxes, Cash App has you covered! Making a big splash in 2020 with their acquisition of Credit Karma Tax (formerly known as), they have kept the same free service that enables users to file state and federal returns – at absolutely no cost. Plus, this program offers itemized deductions using Schedule A for those who need it; business profits and losses can be accounted for by utilizing Schedule C; tax credits such as The Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Tax Credits are all part of what makes up this amazing package! There is truly something here for everyone when looking into cash app-ing your taxes away.
Jackson Hewitt
Jackson Hewitt is a go-to resource for those navigating challenging financial situations. With more than 35 years in business and nearly 6,000 locations across the United States, Jackson Hewitt provides personalized tax advice that comes with two guarantees: Lifetime Accuracy and their promise to help you get the biggest refund—or else pay out up to $100! Along with online or in-person filing options plus real-time customer support, they even have special services tailored towards complex cases including instances of unresolved IRS debt. And now offering one all-inclusive premium program at competitive prices, it’s never been easier to trust your taxes are being taken care of by seasoned professionals like Jackson Hewitt.
Liberty Tax
For over two decades, Liberty Tax has been helping taxpayers in the US and Canada navigate their tax returns. With nearly 3,000 offices around North America offering personal assistance as well as a maximum refund guarantee — plus reimbursement for IRS penalties and interest should any of its math be inaccurate — it’s easy to see why they have such an impressive track record with customers. But that doesn’t mean you can only get help by visiting one of those locations: 360-degree customer support is available through chat, email, or social media too! Plus if you’re partway through your return online but need some extra guidance offline then there’s always the option to switch seamlessly between platforms.
Liberty Tax offers three different online services to fit your filing needs: Basic, Deluxe, and Premium. Go with the Basic option if you’re a single or married filer without dependents – it’s just $45.95 for federal returns plus an additional $36.95 per state! For those more complex financial situations involving children, investments, college expenses, and child care costs – choose Deluxe for only slightly higher rates at $65.95 +$36/state return fee. The highest tier of our service is Premium which would best suit self-employed workers or others including less common forms of income; this package comes at a cost of 85 dollars 95 cents federally plus 36 ninety-five per state return filed afterward… Allowing everyone from budget-friendly tax preparers to savvy CPAs something here that works great!
FreeTaxUSA
FreeTaxUSA is the perfect partner for tax season, having filed over 43 million user returns and offering a maximum refund guarantee as well as 100% accuracy. With detailed instant checks at each step of data entry along with double-checks throughout – plus final analysis before submission – you can rest assured your return was prepared correctly. Not to mention it’s extremely affordable! Ideal for those self-employed or dealing in more uncommon forms of income, FreeTaxUSA helps make sure filing taxes isn’t one extra job on top of everything else.
Take a deep breath and relax – filing taxes doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With the free version, you can take advantage of itemized deductions, dependent care costs, self-employment income calculations, rental property incomes, and education deduction knowledge for just $0! But wait there’s more – upgrade to Deluxe at only $7.99 for all that plus live chat with priority support team members as well unlimited amendments in addition to audit assistance when needed. Now, why not file your tax return stress-free?
Our Selection Process
In our search for the ultimate tax software packages, we narrowed it down to eight of the most popular and made sure each met stringent criteria. We took pricing into account along with how easy it was to use, customer support availability, and product features – all from a consumer point-of-view – before ruling in or out any provider. Our expert judgment ultimately determined which ones were best suited for different types of users; ensuring you get the package that meets your specific needs without fail!
Final Thoughts
Taxes can be a complex topic, but with the right preparation and guidance, you don’t have to get overwhelmed. From Turbo Tax to H&R Block our guide has picked out top-tier programs that will offer an array of benefits for all types of financial situations – so whatever your needs are, there’s bound to be something perfect just around the corner! Don’t wait until tax season arrives before making up your mind; take advantage now and familiarize yourself with different online filing services available—and find one that fits perfectly into your life.
Questions about Tax Software
How much does tax software cost?
The cost of tax software programs can vary depending on the specific program and the features included. Generally, online tax software can range from free for basic returns to $150 or more for more complex returns that require additional features such as self-employment or investment income calculations. Desktop software can range from $50 to $150. Some companies offer discounts for military personnel and students. Additionally, many tax software programs offer free trials, so you can try them before you buy.
Which software is best for income tax returns?
The best software for income tax returns depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some popular tax software options include TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct. Each software has its own set of features, prices, and user interfaces, so it is important to evaluate your needs and compare the options before making a decision.
If you have a simple tax situation and just need to file a basic return, a free option may be suitable. However, if you have a more complex tax situation, such as self-employment income or rental property, paid software that specializes in these areas may be a better fit.
Ultimately, the best software for you will depend on your individual financial situation and the features that you need. It is recommended to compare the options and read customer reviews before making a decision.
Is tax software worth buying?
Whether tax software is worth buying depends on your individual circumstances. Here are some benefits of using tax software:
- Ease of use: Tax software programs are designed to be user-friendly, guiding you through the tax filing process step by step.
- Accuracy: Tax software programs use built-in calculations and checks to help ensure that your tax return is accurate.
- Time-saving: Tax software programs can save you time compared to manually preparing and filing your tax return.
- Cost-effective: Compared to hiring a tax professional, tax software can be a more cost-effective way to file your taxes, especially if you have a simple tax situation.
- Convenience: With online tax software, you can file your taxes from anywhere with an internet connection.
However, if you have a complicated tax situation or are unsure about how to prepare and file your taxes, it may be worth considering hiring a tax professional or using the services of a tax preparation company.
Ultimately, the decision to buy tax software or not will depend on your individual circumstances, tax situation, and level of comfort with preparing and filing taxes on your own.
What is the best free tax software?
If you are looking for a great way to file your taxes without spending money, Cash App Taxes is a perfect choice. Offering free filing of both federal and state tax returns, it also comes with several useful features such as itemized deductions on Schedule A, business income/loss tracking on Schedule C, and credits including Child Tax Credit & Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). So go ahead; get organized – stress less by making use of this fantastic service!
What is the easiest tax software to use?
TurboTax is the go-to solution for seamless tax prep. Not only does it provide an easy-to-navigate interface with step-by-step guides, but you can also receive helpful advice to maximize potential deductions! Depending on your needs, you have the option of using a free version or purchasing higher-tier plans that come complete with additional features and live support from certified CPAs – all at incredibly competitive prices. When filing taxes through TurboTax comes extra reassurance in their Accurate Calculations Guarantee which promises reimbursement if errors occur resulting in IRS penalties and Maximum Refund Guarantees so there will always be money back should lower returns arise. What is the easiest tax-free software to use?