Are you wondering where to get your taxes done? What’s the best option for your tax situation?
Tax preparation and filing can be simplified by doing a little research to choose the best option for you. You can still go to an accountant or a retail tax preparation service, but an increasingly popular option is do-it-yourself software for tax preparation.
Of course, you want to be sure you’re spending your money wisely and getting the best help possible for your tax situation. One of my Twitter followers tweeted me this:
How do you recommend people get their taxes “done”? Should we go to an accountant, or one of those places that have the guy dressed as the statue of liberty standing outside waving a banner, or TurboTax (or the like)?
Table of Contents
The 3 Top Places to Get Your Taxes Done
As the question implies, there are three major players in the tax preparation game:
- Do-it-yourself tax software (e.g., TaxSlayer) ~$70
- Full-time public accountants (CPAs and Enrolled Agents) and other traditional practitioners ~$323
- Retail tax preparation services (you know, the ones with the Statue of Liberty out front?) ~$175
Best Websites for Filing Taxes
In an increasingly online world, there are many websites that can assist you in tax preparation and filing. Let’s talk about three useful online tax-prep resources: TaxSlayer, TurboTax, and H&R Block Online.
TurboTax
5.0
Turbotax is America's #1 tax software. Answer simple, non-taxy questions. Start for free.
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4.5
No surprises. No hidden fees. Online tax filing that fits you. Start for free!
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TaxSlayer
4.5
A low-cost tax preparation software that has special services for the self-employed and active military members.
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FreeTaxUSA
3.5
Do it right. Do it for free.® E-file directly to the IRS. Start your free return today!
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TaxSlayer
You can electronically file your tax return with TaxSlayer. Here’s a link to their free version for those with the simplest tax situations, which even includes free state filing. For their other versions, state filing is $39.95.
- The Classic version is just $29.95, and probably fits most tax situations (35% off with promo code SLAYIT35)
- The Premium option is $49.95, which includes access to live chat assistance and Ask a Tax Pro (35% off with promo code SLAYIT35)
- The Self-Employed version is $59.95, this if for those who are 1099 workers or self-employed (35% off with promo code SLAYIT35)
For all versions you can combine e-file with direct deposit to get your fastest possible refund.
TurboTax
TurboTax is a longtime tax software provider. They, like TaxSlayer, offer one free option for simple tax circumstances. Their paid tiers are similar in features to those of TaxSlayer, but do cost a bit more.
- The Deluxe version is $59 and covers situations like owning a home
- The Premier is $89 and includes stock investing
- The Self-Employed is $119 and is set up to handle 1099 or self-employment income
Essentially, the more complex your tax situation, the higher the cost will be. And like with TaxSlayer, the free option is the only one that gives you a free state return, otherwise, state returns are $49. TurboTax is well-known for maximizing deductions and getting you the most accurate tax return possible. You can get started with TurboTax here.
Related:TurboTax Review: Get Your Best Tax Return In 2022
H&R Block
, which you may know for its human tax preparation, also offers online tax preparation. The free option provides both federal and state filing for free.
- The Deluxe Online version is $54.99 and helps you maximize deductions and HSA contributions
- The Premium Online version is $74.99 and is best for freelancers, contractors, and investors
- The Self-Employed Online version costs $114.99 and works best for the self-employed and small business owners
For each of the paid versions, you’ll pay an additional $44.99 for state filing.
Related:
Average Price to File Taxes
Prices to file taxes can be all over the map because everyone’s situation is so different. I’ve put together some averages based on reliable sources that should give you an idea of what to expect when you go to file.
Do-It-Yourself Tax Software
Most people who don’t itemize their taxes should be able to get away with a completely free federal and state tax return. For those who itemize, the average price to file will be around $70 per return (according to TurboTax and H&R Block websites). For those who have a business, rental property, or other investments to report, the average price is going to be around $150 per return.
Full-Time Tax Pros (aka your local CPA)
According to the National Society of Accountants, it will run you an average of $294 per return to work with a CPA. That nearly $300 price tag is for an itemized 1040 filing with state tax return.
An unitemized 1040 with a state tax return will only set you back $188. When I used to prepare taxes, I didn’t charge this much (more like $75-$125). However, that was over ten years ago, so pricing has likely adjusted since then.
Retail Tax Prep Offices (H&R Block, Liberty Tax, etc)
CBS news reported that “The average fee at the national tax service firms H&R Block and Liberty Tax Service is $147 per return and $191 per return, respectively.”
Why Do-It-Yourself Tax Software is Cheapest
One thing to note is that each tax preparation option is working at a different price-point. Software is typically the cheapest–but don’t assume that cheapest means worst. Tax software can absolutely be the best option for you.
That’s because tax software has become extremely sophisticated over the years. Don’t look to a professional to outsmart the software, since they are probably just using a professional version of the software themselves.
Ultimately, tax software is cheap because all software is cheap. It’s a digital product that is easy to store and replicate. It may also offer the best tax preparation experience for a number of taxpayers and can be an excellent choice for your tax return.
Why Pay a CPA
That being said, going to a flesh-and-blood tax professional may be the best option for many taxpayers. That’s because a professional CPA can help you navigate the difficult tax questions like business structure, tax planning moves, etc. that pop up throughout the year.
Software has a harder time with this. You can’t have lunch with software to discuss your small business.
CPAs are usually the most expensive option, but you’re paying for someone to help you with a complex tax situation or simply to give you that extra assurance.
Check Out: Get a Quality CPA to Prepare Your Taxes
Retail Tax Prep – Splitting the Difference
Right down the middle is the retail tax preparation–the places where you see the dancing Statue of Liberty outside. This option generally costs less than a CPA but more than DIY tax software, and it offers the middle ground in terms of professional support, as well.
Retail tax prep is there to serve the client who wants a bit of help but doesn’t want to pay a premium practitioner on an ongoing basis. If you don’t have tax questions throughout the year, but still feel a little overwhelmed by tax preparation, the retail option could be the best choice for you.
Check Out: These 7 Strategies Save Us Thousands Each Year in Taxes
Getting Ready to Do Your Taxes
If even thinking about filing your taxes has you breaking out in a sweat, you’re not alone. Our tax code is lengthy and confusing, so it’s very common for people to dread doing their taxes. But just getting started can feel empowering, and there’s no need to stress.
This year, start by getting a folder (paper or digital) and collecting anything you think you might need. Also, review last year’s tax return. This will give you, or your CPA, an idea of what this year’s taxes will probably look like and will help you get ideas about the information you will need.
Once you know the forms and documentation you will need for this year’s taxes, commit to keeping track of these things in 2022. Being organized will make doing your taxes next year less stressful. For example, if you find out this year you need all your medical receipts from 2019, create a system for keeping track of those throughout 2022. That way you don’t have to go digging next year.
Which Option is Best for YOU?
My honest and short answer is that it depends. For most of us, choosing online tax prep software will work perfectly well. Most people who have used online software will tell you it is very intuitive and thorough. If you’re debating about a deduction, the software will walk you through the pros and cons. If you aren’t even sure of which forms you need, the software will explain. The process is incredibly comprehensive and educational.
However, if you simply feel more comfortable going to a licensed tax professional in person, there’s nothing wrong with that.
That said, there are plenty of options that make it easy to file your taxes online. The point is that filing online is the way to go if you don’t have an extremely complex financial situation. Remember that you can go through the process of preparing your taxes with an online software and if you aren’t satisfied when it comes time to file–you don’t have to pay! (That’s because you won’t file.) You can take the information and walk into an or have a tax professional complete it for you.
The bottom line is that the more complex your financial situation is (i.e. rental properties, heavy stock trades, crypto, small business, income from multiple states,) the more likely it is that you should use a professional, like a CPA, to help you with tax planning and filing your taxes. For the rest of us, filing online is the way to go.
Simplify Tax Time With Quickbooks Online
Self-employed folks may feel extra layers of stress around tax time because their finances can be rather complicated, with income from multiple sources, for example. Quickbooks Online is a practical tool that simplifies tax preparation for the self-employed.
With Quickbooks Online, self-employed folks can get real-time estimates on their quarterly taxes, plus handy filing deadline reminders. This helps ensure you’re paying your quarterly estimated taxes on time and accurately, removing much of the confusion of tax season.
They’ll automatically track your income and expenses and help you find all of your eligible tax deductions. Using Quickbooks Online can be illuminating for an entrepreneur because they’ll automatically update your income and expenses to reflect how much you’re truly bringing home. Their tax estimates show you an accurate picture of your finances.
For self-employed people and side hustlers who do any driving required for work, Quickbooks Online provides automatic business mileage tracking. It takes the pain out of tracking business mileage, as well as keeping your various driving categories (business, personal, medical, etc.) separate.
The Simple version of Quickbooks Online is ideal for a small business owner or someone with a side hustle. There are also a couple of more expensive versions in case you need more robust services.
Learn more about Quickbooks Online here.
Related:Get the Most from Your 2022 Mileage Tax Deduction
Take Time to Understand Your Taxes
I can’t stress this enough: there is no substitute for your own personal knowledge of your tax information. Unless your situation is extremely simple, no one but you could possibly know all of the details of your financial situation.
You should really strive to understand your own taxes, even though it will require some effort. Start with last year’s return. Look at the different sections (income, deductions, itemized deductions and exemptions, credits, and tax payments) and learn how they work together.
If you use a CPA, have them thoroughly review the return with you so that you understand what they did. A tax preparer of any kind (software, retail, professional) should really just be for assurance, not so that you can turn a blind eye to what is going on.
Get started with TurboTax.
Want to use the CPA that I use to get my taxes done? Check out my Dad, Larry G. Taylor, CPA.
Keep Reading:
- How to File Your Taxes for Free This Year!
- 7 Strategies to Save You Thousands Each Year in Taxes (Year-End Tax Planning)
FAQs
Who is the cheapest to do your taxes? ›
| Tax service | Pricing | Is there a free version? |
|---|---|---|
| TaxAct | $24.95-$64.95 ($44.95 per state) | Yes, basic 1040 for federal |
| H&R Block | $69.99-$144.99 ($36.99 per state) | Yes, basic 1040 for federal and state |
| e-file.com | $20.49-$34.49 ($22.49 per state) | Yes, basic federal return |
They charge an hourly rate
Ask your tax preparer in advance how much they will charge and how long they will spend on your taxes if they charge by the hour. Normally, a tax professional will charge between $100 and $200 per hour, depending on what kind of tax forms you need to file.
H&R Block has slightly lower prices than TurboTax for most paid versions of its online tax-filing platforms. Keep in mind, however, that both companies may offer special pricing for people who file early during tax season.
What is the cheapest way to file tax? ›- IF YOU HAVE A SIMPLE TAX SITUATION. ...
- IF YOU MADE $73,000 OR LESS IN 2021, TRY IRS FREE FILE ALLIANCE. ...
- IF YOU NEED HELP IRL, TRY THE VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. ...
- IF YOUR TAXES ARE COMPLICATED AND YOU WANT TO SAVE, TRY TAXSLAYER.
- Best Overall: H&R Block.
- Best for Ease of Use: Jackson Hewitt.
- Best Online Experience: TurboTax Live.
- Best for Self-Employed: EY TaxChat.
- Best for Small to Mid-Size Businesses: KPMG Spark.
Anyone with a relatively complicated tax situation can benefit from hiring a professional. If you own a business, for example, and have lots of different expenses to deduct, it may be worth paying someone who can help you navigate your return, maximize the tax breaks you're entitled to, and avoid errors.
How much is a tax return through H&R Block? ›How much does H&R Block's tax service cost? H&R Block offers a free online tax-filing program that includes simple federal and state tax returns. If you need to upgrade based on your tax situation, you'll pay $49.99 to $109.99 to complete a federal return, and $36.99 for each state tax return.
How much does an accountant charge for a tax return? ›Starting out with the basics, one-off accounting will cost around £25 to £50 an hour, and more specialist accounting costs around £125 to £150 an hour. More comprehensive accounting can cost around £60 to £250 per month, depending on the size of your business.
Can you file taxes for free anywhere? ›Welcome to IRS Free File, where you can electronically prepare and file your federal individual income tax return for free using tax preparation and filing software. Let IRS Free File do the hard work for you.
Is it worth paying for H&R Block? ›H&R Block is great for the average filer. You can file both your federal and state tax returns with as little as $29.99 (not including the Free File option through the IRS). Because it's so easy to use, it's worth paying a slightly higher fee than competitors like Intuit's TurboTax and FreeTaxUSA.
Is it better to file with H&R Block or TurboTax? ›
H&R Block covers more filers with its free option. The two Deluxe options are the same in terms of price, but TurboTax's Deluxe option supports more forms that self-employed, freelance and contract workers may need. Both services are user-friendly but TurboTax is slightly simpler with more straightforward language.
What is the best free service to file taxes? ›...
IRS Free File
- FreeTaxUSA.
- TaxSlayer.
- 1040Now.
- TaxAct.
- IRS Free File Program by ezTaxReturn.com.
- 1040Now.
- Free 1040 Tax Return.
- OnLine Taxes (OLT)
To fatten your paycheck and receive a smaller refund, submit a new Form W-4 to your employer that more accurately reflects your tax situation and decreases your federal income tax withholding.
What is the smartest way to pay taxes? ›- Borrow the money. This is a great option if you have someone willing to loan you the money, especially with no interest.
- Pay with a credit card. You may think about using a credit card now and paying off the balance over time. ...
- Work with the IRS. ...
- What not to do: Ignore it.
Now, more than ever, you need a reliable, fast, secure, contact-less way to receive your money. The best and fastest way to get your tax refund is to have it electronically deposited for free into your financial account. The IRS program is called direct deposit.
Can a tax preparer get me more money? ›In one survey of 2,000 taxpayers, self-filers received an average of $1,775 per return. Those that used a tax professional received an average refund of $2,615, an increase of $840. While hiring a tax professional may cost more upfront, the amount of money you can save is well worth any out-of-pocket fees.
Is it better to get a tax refund or pay taxes? ›“In most cases it's better to owe than to receive a refund,” says Enrolled Agent Steven J. Weil, Ph. D. and president and tax manager of RMS Accounting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Is it worth it to have TurboTax do your taxes? ›TurboTax is the most expensive option for filing taxes online, but offers a high-quality user interface and access to experts. It's especially valuable for self-employed filers who use QuickBooks integration.
How long does H&R Block take to give you your money? ›When will my refund arrive? If you e-filed your return and chose direct deposit to receive your refund, you'll usually receive your refund in 8-15 days. However, you should allow an extra 1-5 business days for your bank to process the funds.
Does H&R Block charge if you don't file taxes? ›The maximum total penalty for failure to file and pay is 47.5% (22.5% late filing and 25% late payment) of the tax. However, if your return was over 60 days late, the minimum failure to file penalty is the smaller of $435 or 100% of the tax required to be shown on the return.
Is H&R Block still doing rapid refunds? ›
Refund Advance is currently not available. The Refund Advance loan Go to disclaimer for more details109 was available at participating H&R Block offices Jan. 4 – Feb. 28, 2022. If you still need to get your taxes done, file with us and get every dollar you deserve with our Max Refund Guarantee.
Who can help me with my tax return? ›Contact the IRS
You can also call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or TTY: 1-800-829-4059. This option works best for less complex questions. Keep in mind that wait times to speak with a representative may be long. You may also contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you're having a tax problem.
There are lots of other ways hiring an accountant can save you money at tax time. Accountants keep up-to-date on the latest tax information so they know which tax deductions you're entitled to and how to minimize your tax liability. (This is especially important in the wake of recent tax law changes.)
Can you do your tax return yourself? ›But in truth, anyone can file an accurate tax return without professional help. One alternative is to use tax software that adds up your income and expenses over the financial year. As long as you input your figures carefully, your calculations will be 100% error-free.
How do you pay taxes with no money? ›IRS Tax Payment Plans: If you can't pay in full or can't pay any money, consider these payment plans for IRS taxes you owe. In certain cases, the IRS will help taxpayers set up a plan to pay their due tax over time if they cannot immediately afford it.
What happens if don't file taxes? ›If you fail to file your taxes on time, you'll likely encounter what's called a Failure to File Penalty. The penalty for failing to file represents 5% of your unpaid tax liability for each month your return is late, up to 25% of your total unpaid taxes. If you're due a refund, there's no penalty for failure to file.
How many years can you file back taxes? ›Unfortunately, there is a limit on how far back you can file a tax return to claim tax refunds and tax credits. This IRS only allows you to claim refunds and tax credits within three years of the tax return's original due date.
What is the difference between Deluxe and Premium H&R Block? ›Deluxe Online ($49.99) adds real estate taxes and self-employed income; Premium Online ($69.99) adds support for investments, including cryptocurrency; and Self-Employed Online ($84.99) adds Schedule C deductions and asset depreciation.
Is H&R Block doing the Emerald advance this year 2022? ›Here's how Emerald Advance℠ works.
Application period open from Nov. 15, 2022 through Jan. 7, 2023. If approved, you could have year-round access to a line of credit whenever you need it Go to disclaimer for more details127 .
H&R Block Free Online is designed for people with less complex filing situations, including taxpayers who have W-2 income, kids and rent, as well as students and first-time filers. H&R Block Free Online includes an easy-to-use help center to provide guidance along the way and answer common questions.
Do you get your money the same day at H&R Block? ›
Step 3: If approved for a Refund Advance loan, get the money the same day. Loan proceeds are loaded on our convenient mobile banking solution, an H&R Block Emerald Prepaid Mastercard®, issued by MetaBank®, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International.
What bank does H&R Block use to deduct fees? ›If you've chosen Refund Transfer as the method to pay for your online tax prep fees, you have a convenient way to receive your tax refund and pay nothing out of pocket. As part of this service, your refund will be transmitted from the IRS and your bank through MetaBank®.
How long does it take a tax preparer to do your taxes? ›| Primary form filed or type of taxpayer | Return % | Total time |
|---|---|---|
| All taxpayers | 100% | 13 hours |
| Nonbusiness Taxpayers | 72% | 9 hours |
| Business Taxpayers | 28% | 23 hours |
TurboTax is an inexpensive option to prepare simple tax returns with algorithmic triggers for potential deductions. On the other hand, CPAs, though high-priced, are adept at handling complex financial dealings through prompt human interaction.
How do I get a bigger refund from TurboTax? ›- Rethink your filing status. ...
- Embrace tax deductions. ...
- Maximize your IRA and HSA contributions. ...
- Remember, timing can boost your tax refund. ...
- Become tax credit savvy.
Prices vary: $200 to $390 plus $54 per state
Full Service allows you to upload your documents and have a tax expert from TurboTax prepare and file your taxes for you. Prices vary depending on your tax return.
Jackson Hewitt starts at $25 for filing both federal and state taxes, while H&R Block offers free online filing to start. If the free version doesn't work for you, HR&Block offers three different levels of its paid tax software ranging in price from $49.99 up to $109.99.
What is the best free tax filing online service 2022? ›Debuting for the first time in 2022, Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax) allows you to file for free -- even if you're self-employed -- and we consider it the best free tax product available right now.
What are the cons to using tax professionals? ›Although hiring an accountant saves time and has the potential to save money if you're uncertain of deductions that apply to you, the service may not justify the cost. Plus, you miss out on personally learning about the tax code that can prove useful in the future.
What is the easiest cheapest way to file taxes? ›- IF YOU HAVE A SIMPLE TAX SITUATION. ...
- IF YOU MADE $73,000 OR LESS IN 2021, TRY IRS FREE FILE ALLIANCE. ...
- IF YOU NEED HELP IRL, TRY THE VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. ...
- IF YOUR TAXES ARE COMPLICATED AND YOU WANT TO SAVE, TRY TAXSLAYER.
What can slow down tax refund? ›
Filing an incomplete tax return
A common cause of delayed tax return processing, leading to delayed refunds, is missing information on the return. "Failure to include basic information, such as the Social Security numbers of dependents, can significantly hold up a refund," according to Lee E.
A simple tax return uses Form 1040, which only files the simplest type of tax return. TurboTax's simple tax return covers W-2 income, student loan interest deductions, earned income tax credit (EIC), limited interest and dividend income, standard deductions, and child tax credits.
What is the average cost to have someone do your taxes? ›Usually, a tax pro will charge an hourly fee between $100–200 per hour, depending on what kind of tax forms you need to file.
How much does an accountant cost to do a tax return? ›A one-off accounting charge for basic accounting can cost between £25 to £50 per hour, while an ongoing payroll service can cost between £100 to £200 per month for companies with a turnover of between £20,000 to £50,000.
How much does a simple tax return cost? ›Where to file a simple tax return for free. All of Select's best tax software programs offer the opportunity to file a simple tax return for free. The only exception is TaxAct, which charges $39.95 to $54.95 per state return; filing a simple federal tax return is free.
Can someone do my taxes for free? ›Guided Tax Preparation provides free online tax preparation and filing at an IRS partner site. Our partners deliver this service at no cost to qualifying taxpayers. Taxpayers whose AGI is $73,000 or less qualify for a free federal tax return.
Is H&R Block expensive? ›H&R Block and TurboTax have free editions for simple tax returns only. The most expensive programs for more complex tax situations range from $50 (Jackson Hewitt) to $119 (H&R Block) and $115 (TurboTax).
Is it better to do a tax return with an accountant? ›If you're asking "Should I use an accountant for tax returns?" the answer is a resounding yes! You may have just started up a new business, or you might be earning a freelance income. Either way, hiring an accountant to complete your Self Assessment can be an excellent idea.
How do I choose a personal accountant? ›- Ask about their specialization. ...
- Verify their identification number. ...
- Look up their license. ...
- Consider their experience. ...
- Confirm their willingness to sign. ...
- Ask for advice. ...
- Consider their fees. ...
- Make sure they e-file.
H&R Block Free Online includes many popular forms for free — in fact, we let you file more forms for free than TurboTax Free Edition. For example, students who want to claim the student loan interest deduction might find H&R Block Free Online the best free tax preparation vs.
What is the quickest and cheapest way to get your tax refund? ›
The best and fastest way to get your tax refund is to have it electronically deposited for free into your financial account. The IRS program is called direct deposit.
What is a simple tax return for seniors? ›Form 1040-SR is available as an optional alternative to using Form 1040 for taxpayers who are age 65 or older. Form 1040-SR uses the same schedules and instructions as Form 1040 does.