Pricing note: Prices are list prices for the 2025 tax year (returns filed in 2026), US federal unless noted; state returns are charged separately as shown. Providers set prices for the 2026 tax year (filed in 2027) in December and January, and early-season discounts are common. Prices last checked October 2026. Check the provider's site before you file.
How to choose
- Simple W-2 return: Start with a free option. Cash App Taxes is free for federal and state; FreeTaxUSA is free federal with a low state fee.
- You want the smoothest experience: TurboTax has the best imports and guidance, at the highest price.
- You may want a human: H&R Block lets you move from software to a tax pro online or in thousands of offices.
- Freelancer or side hustle: TaxSlayer Self-Employed and FreeTaxUSA cover Schedule C for far less than the big brands.
- Whatever you pick: File electronically and choose direct deposit. It is the fastest way to get your refund.
Side-by-side
| Name | Free version: who qualifies | Federal | State fee | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FreeTaxUSA | Everyone, for federal returns | $0 | $15.99 | 9.4/10 |
| TurboTax | Simple Form 1040 returns only | From $79 | $39 to $64 | 9.3/10 |
| H&R Block | W-2 and unemployment income, standard deduction | From $65 | $49 | 9.2/10 |
| TaxSlayer | Basic W-2 returns, standard deduction; one state included | From $44.99 | $47.99 | 9.0/10 |
| TaxAct | Simple Form 1040 returns, limited forms | From $59.99 | $64.99 | 8.9/10 |
| Cash App Taxes | Supported returns in one state; Cash App account needed | $0 | $0 (one state only) | 8.8/10 |
| eFile.com | Simple returns | From $19.49 | $21 | 8.4/10 |
How we ranked them
Every product is scored out of 10 on the same five criteria: coverage, real cost, ease of use, help and support, and trust and security. We read each provider's official pricing and terms and show the date we last checked them. More about our method.
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FAQ
What is the cheapest way to file taxes online?
Cash App Taxes is free for federal and one state return. FreeTaxUSA is free for federal returns of any complexity, with a low state fee.
Is TurboTax worth the price?
If you have investments, crypto or rental income and want the most guidance and imports, it can be. For simple returns, free options do the same job.
Can I switch tax software from last year?
Yes. Most services import a PDF of last year's return, including returns made with a competitor.
Can I file through the IRS for free?
IRS Free File offers guided software from partner companies to people with adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less (the limit irs.gov shows for current-year returns), and Free File Fillable Forms at any income. See our free filing guide.
Not advice: General information only, not tax, legal or financial advice. Consult a qualified tax professional. We may earn a commission from links on this page; see our affiliate disclosure.