Discussion
As tax season ramps up, it's important to be aware of the various software options for filing. Below, I have outlined 2 premium brands and 2 budget brands as well as provided price information and links to the respective websites.
Premium Brands
H&R Block
- H&R Block More Zero - 1040EZ, 1040A & 1040 - $0
- Deluxe Online Tax Filing - Additional Features (tax advice, access to prior returns, additional forms, etc.) - $34.99
- Self-Employed Online Tax Filing - Additional features (expense import, additional forms, etc.) - $74.99
State returns cost an additional $36.99 (except for H&R Block More Zero).
https://www.hrblock.com/
Turbotax
- Free Edition - Form 1040EZ & 1040A - $0
- Deluxe - Maximize tax deductions and credits - $39.99
- Premier - Investments and rental property - $59.99
- Self-Employed - Personal & business income and expenses - $89.99
- Turbotax Live - CPA or EA advice on demand and a final review - $149.99
State returns cost an additional $39.99 (except for Free Edition).
https://turbotax.intuit.com/
Budget Brands
TaxSlayer
- Simply Free - Form 1040EZ - $0
- Classic - All major forms - $17
- Premium - Live chat support & audit assistance - $35
- Self-Employed - Best for self-employed & freelancers - $40
State returns cost an additional $22 for Classic & Premium (except for Simply Free & Self-Employed).
https://www.taxslayer.com/
TaxAct
- Free - 1040EZ & 1040A - $0
- Plus - Homeowners, itemizers and filers with investments - $29.95
- Freelancer - Independent contractors and self-employed filers - $44.95
- Premium - All types of filers - $59.95
State returns cost an additional $37 (except for Free).
https://www.taxact.com/
FreetaxUSA is good too - Federal free and States under $15. Best value for very simple returns, no extra cost for itemizing or investments.
Sounds good. I hadn't heard of that one before. On the list, I've personally used H&R Block and TurboTax (though it's been some years). I always found H&R Block to be my favorite (in particular, I like their business return suite and the ability to view the forms/the ability to drive preparation through the forms).
@OriginalWorks
Which ones compare using the standard deduction vs. the itemization?