What is the best tax software for filing my taxes in 2024? TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxSlayer…
There are a multitude of programs available to help ease the process. Some states will be trialling a free service created by the IRS.
To make sure that you get all the tax credits and deductions that you have coming your way to potentially increase your refund, or barring that, paying less taxes, there are a number of tax software programs.
The top providers have both free and paid versions of their services that can make the process of submitting your 2023 tax return easier. Additionally many have apps that allow you to use the software on your smartphone or even a tablet.
Here’s a look at those that are considered the best in 2024.
- “Direct File” pilot test
- TurboTax
- H&R Block
- Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax)
- TaxSlayer
- Jackson Hewitt
New IRS free online tax filing service
The “Direct File” pilot test will provide taxpayers with the choice to electronically file their federal tax return directly with the IRS for free. Taxpayers can choose to use it for tax year 2023 and it will be a mobile-friendly, interview-based service that works on all devices. It will be an option for hundreds of thousands of taxpayers in 13 states this year.
Other tax-prep software for filing taxes in 2024
TurboTax and H&R Block lead the pack with their services and which one would work better for you depends on whether you need more hands on support submitting your 2023 tax return. H&R Block offers cheaper paid services and its free version has expanded capabilities according to NerdWallet.
However, if you need to speak with a professional, while H&R Block gives you the option to meet one in person it will cost you at least $80 either in-office or virtual appointments. TurboTax on the other hand only offers feedback from a professional via video, but until the end of March that is available for free.
But they aren’t the only ponies in town, other tax-prep software providers that top the list are Cash App Taxes (formerly known as Credit Karma Tax), TaxSlayer. These two both offer no-frills free software and while Cash App Taxes does not offer a paid premium service, TaxSlayer, like H&R Block and TurboTax, offers three higher levels of paid services depending on the needs of the filer.
Tax software for those filing in multiple states
Another provider of tax-prep services both online and at its office locations around the country including roughly 3,000 kiosks at Walmart stores is Jackson Hewitt. While the software doesn’t have a free version, for a flat $25 fee filers can use it to submit a federal tax return along with unlimited state returns.
This could be a better option for taxpayers who have to file multiple state tax returns as other services allow only one free state tax return charging a fee per each additional state. However, the software has its drawbacks such as not being able to upload files or tax forms. The bare-bones software may not be right for those who have complicated tax returns or need expert tax help.