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TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, and TaxSlayer are the major players that dominate the online tax filing landscape. Cash App Taxes has also become a major player - but their pricing is simple - free.
TurboTax consistently produces the highest quality, easiest to use tax filing software on the market, and H&R Block follows closely on its heels. TaxSlayer has emerged as a strong competitor in recent years. TaxAct tends to lag the pack in terms of usability, but it also chalks in at the lowest price point (sometimes).
Each software offers "Free" filing. However, the Free filing has limits. All of these programs offer paid filing tiers as well. Of course, each company offers different inclusions at each tier which makes comparing features all the more difficult. To clarify pricing, we’re comparing the four major players for 2024-2025. We also mention Cash App Taxes because it's a compelling free product IF your return is supported. They have limits, and you might not qualify based on your needs (like multiple states, etc.).
If you don't know what tax software is right for you, check out our guide to the Best Tax Software which breaks down our picks based on your tax situation.
Note: We will adjust these prices as we find them, but there may be sales, specials, or discounts we miss. Please let us know in the comments if you find a good deal! Remember, prices tend to be lowest in December and January, and highest right at the tax deadline.
Promo: Right now, you can get 20% off H&R Block tax software online - making it the cheapest option of these three competitors. Check out H&R Block Online here >>
Table of Contents
Changes For 2025
Comparing The Online "Free" Tax Filing Software
Comparing The Online "Deluxe" Tax Filing Software
Comparing The Online "Premium" Tax Filing Software
Comparing The Online "Self-Employed" Tax Filing Software
Comparing The Downloadable Editions Of TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct
Final Thoughts
Changes For 2025
TurboTax and H&R Block are putting a bigger focus this year on trying to upsell customers into their assisted or virtual options. These options, of course, come with a higher price tag than online DIY tax preparation.
TurboTax, notably, has made their pricing less transparent. Instead of flat pricing, they offer ranges for their products, and it can be hard to figure out exactly what you'll pay. We do our best to compare the features below, but keep in mind that your mileage may vary. It's also why in our guide below you'll see a lot of "up to" prices... It's very frustrating.
The other major change is H&R Block's expansion of the Free tier. H&R Block is now allowing support for bank account interest and limited support for investments on their free tier. This is awesome news for anyone who opened a high-yield savings account this past year!
Comparing The Online "Free" Tax Filing Software
TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxSlayer offer some form of completely free tax filing. That means the federal filing costs $0 and the first state costs $0. TaxAct always charges for state filing.
Features
However, many filers won’t qualify for these company’s Free tier. The table below shows what is always included, never included, and sometimes included.
Always Included On The Free Tier | Always Requires Upgrades | Sometimes Included On The Free Tier |
|---|---|---|
W-2 Income (no HSA contributions) | Charitable contributions | Education credits. H&R Block and TaxAct support these. TurboTax does not. |
Unemployment income | Itemized deductions | Student Loan Interest Deduction. H&R Block only |
Social Security Income | HSA contributions | Earned Income Tax Credit. TaxSlayer does not. |
Daycare or other dependent care expenses | Child Tax Credit. TaxSlayer does not. | |
Stock trading | Interest Income - H&R Block only. | |
Cryptocurrency trading | ||
Dividends | ||
Rental income | ||
Side hustle income | ||
Small business income |
Pricing
For a comparison of "Free" tiers, you'd except to see a lot of $0s. And that's mostly what you'll find in the table below. But remember - it's not always about price, but also what features are included in the free tier.
However, as previously noted, you will have to pay $39.99 (per state) if you need to file a state return with TaxAct this year.
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|---|---|---|---|---|
Federal Return | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Federal eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
State Return | $0 | $0 | $39.99 | $0 |
State eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Total Price | $0 | $0 | $39.99 | $0 |
| Try TurboTax | Try H&R Block | Try TaxAct | Try TaxSlayer |
Recommendation For 2025
Both the TurboTax and TaxSlayer free tier are quite restrictive. For TurboTax specifically, it's limited to simple tax returns only and not all taxpayers qualify. H&R Block continues to offer the most robust free tier of the paid programs, which is why we recommend it again in 2025.
However, if you qualify to file with Cash App Taxes, this is a compelling option for most tax filers. You should familiarize yourself with their limitations though.
Try H&R Block
Comparing The Online "Deluxe" Tax Filing Software
The Deluxe pricing tier is typically targeted toward people who want to “maximize deductions and credits.” A lot of people think this means people who itemize their taxes, but many tax filers who take the standard deduction will still find that they need to upgrade to the Deluxe tier of their tax filing software for various reasons.
Honestly, if you need the "Deluxe" tier for these products, consider FreeTaxUSA or Cash App Taxes first. You'll likely get a great experience for a fraction (or none) of the cost.
Features
"Deluxe" is the most common tier for people who have child care expenses, who contribute to an HSA, or who want to deduct their student loan interest. Here's a closer look at what's always included, never included, and sometimes included.
However, TaxSlayer Classic (which is the second pricing level, equivalent to Deluxe) includes all forms and situations, which makes it very compelling.
Always Included On The Deluxe Tier | Always Requires Upgrades | Sometimes Included On The Deluxe Tier |
|---|---|---|
Everything on Free tier | Stock trading | Side hustle income, expenses, and credits. H&R Block supports this, the others do not. |
Child care expenses | Cryptocurrency trading | TaxSlayer includes all forms and situations in Classic. |
HSA contributions | Dividends | |
Retirement contributions | Rental income | |
All credits | Small business income | |
All deductions |
Pricing
Typically, the Deluxe tier is the worst value for these software packages. However, H&R Block is bucking the trend and offers incredible value for gig workers who have income from a 1099-NEC. H&R Block is the only company to support 1099-NEC income on the Deluxe level.
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Federal Return | Up To $89 | $35 | $29.99 | $22.95 |
Federal eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
State Return | $39 | $37 | $39.99 | $39.95 |
State eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Total Price | Up to $128 | $72 | $69.98 | $62.90 |
| Try TurboTax | Try H&R Block | Try TaxAct | Try TaxSlayer |
Recommendation For 2025
This is where TaxSlayer's competitive edge really shines. At the Classic level, TaxSlayer includes all forms and tax situations for a significantly lower price than the limitations of the other brands. So even though both H&R Block and TaxAct are slightly cheaper, with TaxSlayer, you get access to everything! Both H&R Block and TaxAct would limit you at this level.
TaxSlayer is our recommendation here, but users may also consider FreeTaxUSA, which is also a strong contender in this tier.
Try TaxSlayer Classic
Comparing The Online "Premium" Tax Filing Software
The Premium pricing tier is the tier that supports “investors”. All software packages support stock and crypto trading, and they have built-in calculators for landlords.
Features
This tier is where third-party integrations become extremely important. TurboTax supports the largest number of third-party integrations. For example, it has a direct integration with Coinbase which makes it easy for cryptocurrency traders to report their gains or losses in terms of US Dollars. The other software packages don’t have such integrations.
TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct have some (or many) integrations with major brokerages like Charles Schwab and Fidelity. These ensure that users can quickly and easily calculate their capital gains and losses.
This is one of the big downsides of TaxSlayer. They don't have any integrations to automatically import your trades. As such, if you have a lot of transactions (especially crypto), it won't be a good choice for you.
If you’re a landlord, both TurboTax and H&R Block offer easy-to-use depreciation calculators that make it easy to claim the right deduction. I find TaxAct’s to be a little clunkier, but overall it offers a reasonable experience.
Always Included On The Premium Tier | Always Requires Upgrades | Sometimes Included On The Premium Tier |
|---|---|---|
Everything on the Deluxe tier | Small business income | Side hustle income, expenses, and credits. H&R Block supports this, the others do not. |
Stock trading | TaxSlayer Classic includes all forms, but has no integrations. | |
Cryptocurrency trading | ||
Rental income |
Pricing
This is a tier where you really do get what you pay for. TaxAct is the lowest priced, but at the same time, it doesn't offer any integrations with financial services firms to help you with your taxes.
If you need to import transactions, H&R Block Premium and TurboTax Premier are likely where you want to be. If you just have traditional investments, I'd pick TaxSlayer. If you have crypto, I'd probably select TurboTax.
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Federal Return | Up to $89 | $65 | $49.99 | $42.95 |
Federal eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
State Return | $39 | $37 | $39.99 | $39.95 |
State eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Total Price | Up to $128 | $102 | $89.98 | $82.90 |
| Try TurboTax | Try H&R Block | Try TaxAct | Try TaxSlayer |
Recommendation For 2025
At this tier, TurboTax offers the best experience. Most traders and landlords will appreciate the number of integrations that TurboTax supports. TaxSlayer Classic also shines - offering all forms at a flat price.
However, functionality isn’t everything, especially if you don't need it. H&R Block offers a similar user experience at a lower price point. If you don't have crypto, our general pick is going to be H&R Block Premium.
This is the first year TaxAct has offered this pricing, but we fear it's incredibly promotional and their prices will rise quickly at this tier.
For now, TaxSlayer Premium is our recommendation unless you need the direct integrations that TurboTax offers.
Try TaxSlayer
Comparing The Online "Self-Employed" Tax Filing Software
The self-employed filing software is required for anyone who had Schedule C (self-employment) income. Given the rocky economic conditions of the last year, I suspect that a lot of people have done some gig work this year. All of those side hustlers may need to upgrade to this tier for their filing.
Features
As previously noted, H&R Block Deluxe supports users who want to declare Schedule C income, but don’t have significant expenses to report. However, those with significant expenses will need to upgrade to this level.
In terms of usability, TurboTax leads the pack. It integrates seamlessly with Quickbooks, offers plenty of options for imports, and makes it easy to depreciate your business assets.
If your business doesn’t have assets, you may not need TurboTax or any of these software options. TaxSlayer Classic offers similar functionality at a much lower price.
Note: TurboTax Online combined their Premium and Self-Employed versions into one single plan: TurboTax Premium. This makes TurboTax a much more compelling option for self-employed individuals.
Pricing
The Self-Employed tier is always the most expensive filing tier for these companies. It supports anyone with self-employment income. That could be someone who walked a few dogs, or it could include someone who earns all of their income from self-employment.
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Federal Return | $89 | $85 | $69.99 | $52.95 |
Federal eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
State Return | $39 | $37 | $39.99 | $39.95 |
State eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Total Price | Starts at $128 (price may be higher) | $122 | $109.98 | $92.90 |
| Try TurboTax | Try H&R Block | Try TaxAct | Try TaxSlayer |
Recommendation For 2025
Late in the tax season last year, TurboTax and TaxAct has significantly raised their prices, but TurboTax has the advantage due to the integrations. H&R Block Online is another good option, saving a significant amount over TurboTax.
But at this level, I would encourage filers to check out TaxSlayer which has incredible functionality at a lower price.
TaxAct is also another solid choice for small business owners - they've really doubled-down their focus on side hustlers and small business owners on their Self-Employed Tier.
Try TaxSlayer Self-Employed
Comparing The Downloadable Editions Of TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct
Tax filers have the option to choose downloadable products rather than using the cloud-based options. Theoretically, downloadable software may be more secure. The only direct risk of hacking is when you e-file your returns. However, these products aren’t risk-free. If your computer has malware, a hacker could steal your information from your computer rather than from a cloud-based server.
The Risks Of Downloadable Tax Software
Every year, we see people who fail to save their tax return, computers crashing, data stolen, and more. It may sound counter-intuitive, but using the online version is typically safer for most people than downloading software to their computer.
The downloadable function is the same as the corresponding online software, and they typically cost more. Plus, these companies really don't want to continue to offer downloadable software - it's more expensive, risky, increases customer support, and more. So that's why you're going to pay a premium to download.
If you’re watching prices, you might have some luck shopping on Amazon.com. Choosing the downloadable software is almost always easier and higher-quality than buying a similar product in the store. Plus, Amazon sometimes offers 2% boosts if you choose to accept your return on an Amazon gift card.
Note: TaxSlayer doesn't offer a downloadable version of their product.
Comparing Downloadable Basic Editions
At this point, H&R Block is the least expensive option among the basic software packages. While its still fairly expensive, it's the option we recommend this year.
TurboTax Basic | H&R Block Basic | TaxAct Basic | |
|---|---|---|---|
Federal Return | $40 | $32 | $44.99 |
Federal eFile | $0 (5 Free) | $0 (5 Free) | $0 |
State Return | $40 | $39.95 | $60 |
State eFile | $25 | $19.95 | $9.99 |
Total Price | $105 | $91.90 | $114.98 |
| Try TurboTax | Try H&R Block | Try TaxAct |
Comparing Downloadable Deluxe Editions
Across the board, the Deluxe edition brings more functionality at a lower price point (compared to the Basic edition).
If you'll have to file a state return, H&R Block's downloadable Deluxe edition will actually cost you less than it's Basic software download. Given the dramatic disparity in pricing, H&R Block is again the winner for downloadable Deluxe software.
TurboTax Deluxe | H&R Block Deluxe | TaxAct Deluxe | |
|---|---|---|---|
Federal Return | $70 | $47.20 | $139.99 |
Federal eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 (5 Free) |
State Return | $0* | $0* | $0* |
State eFile | $25 | $19.95 | $9.99 |
Total Price | $95 | $67.15 | $149.98 |
| Try TurboTax | Try H&R Block | Try TaxAct |
*First state is free, but not eFile.
Comparing Downloadable Premium Editions
At the Premium level, H&R Block still holds the title of the low-cost leader. The overall price of H&R Block Premium is within a few dollars of its online offering.
TurboTax Premier | H&R Block Premium | TaxAct Premier | |
|---|---|---|---|
Federal Return | $105 | $68 | $149.99 |
Federal eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 |
State Return | $0* | $0* | $0* |
State eFile | $25 | $19.95 | $9.99 |
Total Price | $130 | $87.95 | $159.98 |
| Try TurboTax | Try H&R Block | Try TaxAct |
*First state is free.
Comparing Downloadable Self-Employed Editions
Consistent with other tiers, H&R Block is still the low price leader. Clocking in at under $100, the H&R Block downloadable software is quite a steal. If you’re going to use H&R Block Self-Employed, you may save money by choosing to download.
Note: While TurboTax combined the Home & Business into the Premier for the online version, the desktop versions are still separate.
TurboTax Home & Business | H&R Block Premium & Business | TaxAct Self-Employed | |
|---|---|---|---|
Federal Return | $120 | $79.20 | $159.99 |
Federal eFile | $0 | $0 | $0 |
State Return | $0* | $0* | $0* |
State eFile | $25 | $19.95 | $9.99 |
Total Price | $145 | $109.90 | $169.98 |
| Try TurboTax | Try H&R Block | Try TaxAct |
*First state is free.
Final Thoughts
After comparing pricing and functionality, H&R Block and TaxSlayer most frequently emerges as the best value among the big filing companies. But that doesn’t mean these options are the best choice for you.
Cryptocurrency traders and landlords may decide that upgrading to TurboTax is the right move. While those who need access to "Premium" tier features but want to save money may prefer to use TaxAct or a bargain software like TaxHawk. And don't sleep on Cash App Taxes if you qualify.
Check out our full reviews on H&R Block, TurboTax, TaxAct, and TaxSlayer if you want to learn more.
Editor: Claire Tak
Reviewed by: Colin Graves
The post TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, And TaxSlayer Pricing Comparison appeared first on The College Investor.
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