Tax software prices range from $0 to $200+, and choosing the wrong one can cost you money or missed deductions. This guide compares all major options to find the best fit for your tax situation.
Top Picks 2025
- Best Overall: TurboTax (most comprehensive)
- Best Value: H&R Block (good balance)
- Best Free: FreeTaxUSA ($0 federal, $15 state)
- Best for Simple Returns: Cash App Taxes (100% free)
- Best for Self-Employed: TurboTax Self-Employed
Tax Software Comparison 2025
| Software | Free Version | Deluxe | Self-Employed | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TurboTax | $0 (simple) | $69 | $129 | |
| H&R Block | $0 (simple) | $55 | $115 | |
| TaxAct | $0 (simple) | $46 | $95 | |
| FreeTaxUSA | $0 federal | $0 | $0 | |
| Cash App Taxes | $0 (all) | $0 | $0 | |
| TaxSlayer | $0 (simple) | $43 | $63 |
*Prices are for federal filing. State returns typically $15-50 extra.
Detailed Reviews
TurboTax
Why we love it: Most user-friendly interface, excellent guidance, and best for maximizing deductions. The industry standard.
- Free: Simple returns (W-2, limited deductions)
- Deluxe ($69): Homeowners, donations, HSA
- Premier ($99): Investments, rental property
- Self-Employed ($129): 1099, business deductions
- Live help: Expert assistance available (+$)
Best for: Maximum refund, complex situations, first-time filers
H&R Block
Why we love it: Lower prices than TurboTax, equally capable, and option for in-person help at retail locations.
- Free: Simple returns + unemployment income
- Deluxe ($55): Itemized deductions, HSA, credits
- Premium ($85): Investments, rental income
- Self-Employed ($115): Business expenses, 1099
- In-person: 10,000+ retail locations
Best for: Value seekers, those wanting in-person backup
FreeTaxUSA
Why we love it: Truly free federal filing for ALL tax situations. State is only $15. No upsells.
- Federal: $0 (all forms included)
- State: $14.99
- Deluxe ($7.99): Priority support, audit defense
- Covers: Self-employment, investments, all schedules
Best for: Budget-conscious filers, complex returns on a budget
Who Should Use Free File?
IRS Free File Program
If your income is under $79,000, you may qualify for completely free tax filing through IRS partners:
- TurboTax Free File
- H&R Block Free File
- TaxAct Free File
- TaxSlayer Free File
Access at: irs.gov/freefile
Which Tax Software Do You Need?
Simple Returns (Free Version Works)
- W-2 income only
- Standard deduction
- Limited investment income
- Child tax credit, EITC
Deluxe/Premium Needed
- Itemized deductions
- Homeownership (mortgage interest)
- Significant charitable donations
- Stock/investment sales
- Rental property income
- HSA contributions
Self-Employed Version Needed
- 1099 income (freelance, gig work)
- Business expenses
- Home office deduction
- Self-employment tax
- Quarterly estimated taxes
Tax Software vs. CPA
| Factor | Tax Software | CPA/Tax Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $0-200 | $200-500+ |
| Best for | Simple to moderate | Complex situations |
| Speed | Do it anytime | Appointment needed |
| Personalization | Q&A guided | Custom advice |
| Audit support | Extra cost | Usually included |
Consider a CPA If:
- Multiple income sources
- Own a business
- Major life changes (marriage, divorce, inheritance)
- Real estate investments
- Tax planning needs
- Previous IRS issues
Money-Saving Tips
- File early: More time to find issues, less fraud risk
- Check Free File: Under $79K income = free options
- Start with free version: Upgrade only if needed
- Use prior year data: Import saves time and catches missed items
- Don't pay for state: FreeTaxUSA state is only $15
- Avoid refund anticipation loans: High fees for getting money faster
Common Tax Filing Mistakes
- Wrong filing status: Head of household vs. single matters
- Missing income: All 1099s must be reported
- Forgetting deductions: Student loan interest, HSA, etc.
- Math errors: Software prevents most of these
- Wrong bank info: Double-check for direct deposit
- Not signing: Electronic signature required