Best Tax Software in 2024

The complexities of tax returns are a task that can daunt even the most seasoned financial experts. Fortunately, the market is flooded with tax software designed to simplify the process, ensure accuracy, and maximize potential deductions. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can be an overwhelming endeavor. In this blog, we'll explore the ins and outs of today's leading tax software options, comparing their features, pros, cons, and more to help you make an informed decision.

What is tax software?

Tax software is designed to guide users through the process of preparing and filing their taxes. It simplifies tax law for personal and business use by automating calculations, providing fillable forms, and ensuring compliance with current tax codes. From self-employed individuals to large enterprises, there's a solution tailored to every need.

Why use tax software?

1. Software minimizes human errors by providing precise calculations.

2. Automates routine tasks, saving time and effort.

3. Regular updates reflect the latest tax laws and regulations.

4. It is generally cheaper than hiring a tax professional.

5. Identify potential deductions and credits to maximize your refund.

Best Tax Software in 2024: Features, Pros, and Cons

To help you decide, we've detailed the most popular tax software. Each has been evaluated based on user interface, features, price, and suitability for different user types (from individuals to large businesses).

1. TurboTax by Intuit

TurboTax originated in the mid-1980s, developed by Michael A. Chipman of Chipsoft, based in San Diego. The software quickly gained popularity due to its ease of use. In 1993, Intuit, the maker of QuickBooks and other financial software, acquired Chipsoft, enhancing TurboTax with Intuit's robust financial software technology. Over the years, TurboTax has continuously evolved, integrating cutting-edge technology such as artificial intelligence and data import capabilities to streamline the tax filing process and customize user experiences, maintaining its position as one of the market leaders in tax software.

Features:

• Detailed step-by-step guidance.

• Option to consult with tax professionals.

• Covers various tax situations, from simple to complex.

Pros:

• Highly intuitive interface.

• Comprehensive coverage and expert options.

• Useful for a wide range of tax needs.

Cons:

• More expensive than many competitors.

• Additional charges apply for expert assistance.

Ideal for: 

Individuals and businesses that need robust tax support and don’t mind paying extra for premium features.

2. H&R Block

H&R Block's history dates back to 1955 when brothers Henry W. and Richard Bloch founded the company in Kansas City, Missouri. Initially, the company focused on bookkeeping services for small businesses but quickly pivoted to tax preparation services after discovering the demand among their clients. Over the decades, H&R Block has grown into one of the largest tax service providers in the world, offering both in-person and digital tax services. The company has also expanded internationally, operating in Canada, Australia, and India, adapting to the digital age with its online tax software, which complements its vast network of retail locations.

Features:

• Physical branches for in-person assistance.

• Free audit support.

• User-friendly online platform.

Pros:

• Access to real tax experts.

• Free version for simple tax returns.

• Comprehensive support, including audit defense.

Cons:

• Higher cost for more complex returns.

• Some features are only available at higher payment tiers.

Ideal for: 

Those who might want the option of in-person help or who require a blend of online convenience and expert access.

3. TaxAct

A group of seasoned tax professionals and software developers in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, founded TaxAct in 1998. Their mission was to make tax filing as affordable and as straightforward as possible. TaxAct distinguished itself by being one of the first to offer affordable digital-only tax filing solutions, appealing to do-it-yourself taxpayers. Over time, TaxAct has expanded its offerings to include a variety of tax filing products tailored to different tax situations, including federal and state filings, always maintaining a focus on providing value through competitive pricing and useful features.

Features:

• Different editions are tailored to specific needs.

• Enhanced user interface.

• Educational tools and resources.

Pros:

• Cost-effective compared to larger competitors.

• Transparent pricing.

• Adequate tools for a variety of tax filing needs.

Cons:

• There are fewer features than some other options.

• Limited professional support without upgrading.

Ideal for: 

Budget-conscious users seek a solid platform that balances cost and features.

4. TaxSlayer

TaxSlayer began as a part of a family-owned company called Rhodes-Murphy, which started offering tax preparation services in 1965. The company launched TaxSlayer, a fully-fledged tax software, in 1998 from its headquarters in Augusta, Georgia, aiming to provide an easy and affordable way for individuals to electronically file their taxes. Over the years, TaxSlayer has grown significantly, partly due to its sponsorship of college football bowl games, which helped increase its visibility and brand recognition nationwide.

Features:

• Special editions for military and self-employed.

• Direct email support from tax professionals.

• Quick filing process.

Pros:

• Competitive pricing, especially for advanced features.

• Effective for self-employed and military users.

• Easy to navigate.

Cons:

• Less comprehensive audit support.

• Less-known brand, which may impact user confidence.

Ideal for: 

Those looking for efficient and economical software, particularly self-employed individuals and military personnel.

5. e-File.com

e-File.com was launched in 2013 as part of the TaxWork LLC group, which aimed to provide an affordable and efficient online tax filing solution. Located in Virginia, e-File.com focuses on simplifying the tax filing process with an easy-to-use platform that offers competitive pricing, especially attractive to first-time filers and those with straightforward tax situations. Despite being newer to the market than some of its competitors, e-File.com has established itself as a reliable resource, particularly valued for its affordability.

Features:

• Low-cost federal tax return filing.

• Intuitive interface and easy navigation.

• Free chat support.

Pros:

• One of the most affordable options.

• Free federal filing for simple returns.

• Quick and uncomplicated filing.

Cons:

• Charges for state filing.

• Not as feature-rich as more established brands.

Ideal for: 

Users with straightforward tax situations looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly filing option.

6. FreeTaxUSA

A group of CPAs and software developers founded FreeTaxUSA in 2001 with the goal of offering a free federal tax filing service that could handle even complex tax situations. The company is headquartered in Provo, Utah, and was one of the pioneering services to offer free tax filing with the support of the IRS Free File Alliance. FreeTaxUSA has grown by maintaining a commitment to providing free federal tax return services while ensuring security and accuracy, and it has filed millions of tax returns since its inception.

Features:

• Free federal filing, including for complex returns.

• Affordable state returns.

• Audit assistance options.

Pros:

• Free service includes complex tax filings.

• Low-cost state filing.

• Reliable and straightforward.

Cons:

• Basic interface.

• Customer support can be limited.

Ideal for: 

Users seeking comprehensive features without the high cost, including those dealing with more complex tax situations.

7. Jackson Hewitt Online

Jackson Hewitt started its journey in 1982 and quickly expanded to become a well-known name in tax preparation services across the United States. With a strong presence of approximately 6,000 franchised and company-owned locations nationwide, Jackson Hewitt has made significant strides in combining personal client service with advanced tax technology. This blend allows them to provide a robust online platform alongside the option of in-person service, catering to a diverse range of customer needs and preferences.

Features:

• Seamless transition from online to in-office filing.

• Unlimited email and chat support.

• No upfront payment is required.

Pros:

• Accessible in-person support.

• Reliable and well-established service.

• Flexible payment options.

Cons:

• Online tools may lack some of the depth of in-person service.

• The higher cost is relative to online-first platforms.

Ideal for: 

Those who value the option of in-person assistance and are looking for a trusted name in tax preparation.

8. Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax)

Credit Karma Tax was launched in 2016 as an extension of Credit Karma, a personal finance company that provides free credit scores and reports. Aimed at simplifying the tax filing process, Credit Karma Tax offered a free online tax filing service that quickly gained traction due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of use. In 2020, after Intuit's acquisition of Credit Karma, the tax service was sold to Square, Inc. and rebranded as Cash App Taxes. The rebranding expanded the service’s reach, integrating it with Square’s broader ecosystem of financial tools under the Cash App brand, thereby continuing to offer free tax services with enhanced functionalities to a larger user base.

Features:

• Free federal and state tax filing.

• Simple integration with other Cash App features.

• Audit defense is free of charge.

Pros:

• Completely free, no matter the complexity of the tax situation.

• User-friendly for those already using Cash App.

• Supports most common tax forms and situations.

Cons:

• Limited support for complex tax scenarios.

• There are fewer features than some paid competitors.

Ideal for: 

Regular Cash App users or those seeking a completely free filing option, are particularly suited to straightforward tax scenarios.

9. Drake Tax Software

Phil Drake founded Drake Software in 1977 in Franklin, North Carolina. The company started out as a small operation, focusing initially on providing accounting firms with software to simplify the tax preparation process. Over the years, Drake Tax Software has grown substantially, becoming one of the most trusted names in the tax software industry. The software is known for its comprehensive coverage of tax situations, robustness, and reliability. It offers professional-grade tax preparation tools designed primarily for tax professionals rather than consumers, which differentiates it from many other tax software products on the market.

Features:

• Comprehensive tax preparation services are suitable for all states.

• Integrated electronic filing with both state and federal authorities.

• Detailed reporting tools and real-time processing allow for quick tax calculations.

• Strong customer support with a reputation for quick response times.

Pros:

• High efficiency and reliability, suitable for high-volume tax preparers.

• Offers tools for client management and other business functionalities.

• Regular updates to stay compliant with the latest tax laws.

Cons:

• Primarily designed for professional use, it is not as user-friendly for the average consumer.

• Higher cost compared to consumer-focused tax software.

Ideal for: 

Tax professionals and firms that handle a large number of clients or require sophisticated tools that support detailed tax scenarios.

Utilization by SK Financial

With over 22+ years of experience in the financial services sector, we effectively leveraged Drake Tax Software to enhance our tax preparation services. As a company we are committed to simplifying complex financial processes for our clients, We appreciate the robustness and reliability that Drake offers. The software enables us to manage multiple client files efficiently, ensuring accuracy and compliance with the latest tax regulations. This experience and expertise allow us to provide a seamless and stress-free tax filing experience, catering to a diverse range of client needs, from individual tax filings to more complex corporate tax situations.

Why choose us with Drake Tax Software?

Choosing a seasoned company that utilizes Drake Tax Software means benefiting from decades of accumulated knowledge and expertise. Clients receive professional-grade tax preparation, ensuring that they maximize returns and minimize liabilities effectively. This choice is particularly advantageous for individuals with complex tax situations or businesses requiring detailed and meticulous financial documentation.

Conclusion

In the world of tax software, each program offers distinct advantages depending on the user's specific needs, whether they are individuals looking for easy DIY options or professionals in need of powerful tools to manage multiple clients. For those seeking professional assistance, partnering with a professional tax firm that uses tax software can provide peace of mind through expertise and precision in handling diverse and complex tax scenarios. When selecting tax software or a tax preparation service, it is crucial to consider the software's capabilities, the user's own tax situation, and the level of support provided to ensure compliance and optimize financial outcomes.

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