Best Online Tax Filing Services
H&R Block Online offers a streamlined interface, easy-to-understand tax forms and comprehensive help. It also has an add-on that allows users to get one-on-one support from a human tax professional during tax preparation for an additional fee.
Several of the software companies on our list offer free versions for simple tax returns, which are ideal for the majority of taxpayers. However, some of the premium programs offer more features, including tax experts who will review your return before it’s filed.
H&R Block
H&R Block is one of the most popular tax filing services in the U.S. It offers an online platform and in-person assistance.
H&R Block’s software walks you through the process of preparing and filing your return. The interface asks questions as you input information about your income, deductions and credits.
It also helps you itemize your deductions and claim straightforward credits. You can even upload a copy of your W-2 and other forms.
If you are a freelancer or independent contractor, H&R Block’s Premium Online plan is ideal. It covers most self-employment income and expenses, including stock and crypto transactions.
You can upgrade to the Deluxe+State version for $35 if you want access to all of the tools in the Premium plan. It also includes software for claiming rental properties and basic self-employment income and expenses.
There are also some paid plans that include live support from a tax pro. These cost between $50 and $110 for federal and state filing.
TaxAct
TaxAct is an online tax filing service that offers a number of features that can help you save money and avoid audits. For example, it provides Real-Time Refund Status and TaxAct Alerts that identify potential errors before you submit your return.
In addition, it has a maximum refund guarantee that beats competitors like H&R Block and TurboTax. That means that if you don’t receive your full refund, TaxAct will pay it out instead of just refunding your software fees.
The service offers four product tiers, based on your income reporting needs and the deductions or credits you plan to claim. The Free plan is ideal for filers with simple returns, while Deluxe and Premier are geared toward self-employed filers who may need to handle mortgage interest, investment earnings, and multiple 1099 forms.
For added support, all TaxAct products include Xpert Assist, which gives you access to certified public accountants or IRS-credentialed enrolled agents. You can email questions or request a call-back with one of these professionals.
Credit Karma Tax
If you’re looking for the best online tax filing service, Credit Karma Tax is your best bet. It’s easy to use and offers a variety of free plans for filing federal and state taxes, including W-2s, small business income, investment income, and itemized deductions.
The service can also help you claim a number of credits and deductions, such as the child tax credit, the earned income tax credit, and the credit for low-income workers. It also offers 24/7 chat support for members.
But before you start using Credit Karma Tax, it’s important to know that the service is now owned by Square and will be rebranded as Cash App Taxes starting in January 2022.
While it isn’t the only free online tax filing service, it has a unique competitive niche. Many users can complete their taxes in just 15 to 30 minutes, all from an app on their phone.
TurboTax
TurboTax is one of the best online tax filing services out there. It offers different plans that are designed for specific situations and needs, and its user-friendly interface makes it easy to file your taxes.
TurboTax also includes an audit support guarantee that backs every personal return it prepares. The company has a team of product specialists who are available to answer questions and help you navigate difficult situations.
They also have a SmartLook feature that enables a live tax expert to draw on your screen for guidance. This feature is especially useful when your return is audited, because the live expert can walk you through it step-by-step.
There are three plans based on your income and financial situation. They are Premier, Self-Employed and Deluxe. The more expensive plans come with more features, such as deductions for investment reporting and rental property.
