Side-by-side comparison of the top tax filing platforms. Find the right fit for your situation and budget.
Choosing the right tax software depends on the complexity of your return, whether you need state filing, and your budget. Below is a comparison of the five most popular platforms for the 2026 filing season. Prices reflect the cost of the federal return; state filing is additional unless noted.
| Software | Free Tier | Paid Plans | State Filing | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TurboTax | Simple returns (W-2, limited credits) | $69 - $129 | $59/state | Guided experience, complex returns | Editor's Pick 4.7/5 |
| H&R Block | Simple returns (W-2, unemployment) | $55 - $110 | $44/state | In-person support option, expats | 4.5/5 |
| FreeTaxUSA | All federal returns free | Free (federal) | $14.99/state | Best Value Budget filers | 4.6/5 |
| TaxAct | Simple returns | $35 - $85 | $44.99/state | Self-employed, small business | 4.2/5 |
| Cash App Taxes | All returns free (federal + state) | Free | Free | Best Free Simple to moderate returns | 4.3/5 |
Prices are estimates for the 2026 filing season and may vary. Check each provider's website for current pricing.
TurboTax remains the most popular tax software in the United States, known for its polished interface and step-by-step guidance. The platform excels at walking users through complex tax situations including investments, rental income, and self-employment. TurboTax's interview-style approach asks plain-language questions and translates your answers into the correct tax forms automatically.
The main drawback is cost. TurboTax is consistently the most expensive option, particularly when adding state filing. However, for taxpayers with complicated returns who value accuracy and a guided experience, TurboTax's premium pricing can be worth the peace of mind. The platform also offers an accuracy guarantee and audit support with all paid tiers.
FreeTaxUSA offers completely free federal filing for all tax situations, including itemized deductions, investments, and self-employment income. The only cost is $14.99 per state return, making it one of the most affordable options available. Despite the low price, FreeTaxUSA handles complex returns that other platforms charge $80 or more to process.
The trade-off is a less polished interface compared to TurboTax or H&R Block. The guidance is adequate but more utilitarian. If you have some familiarity with tax concepts, FreeTaxUSA is an excellent choice that delivers the same end result at a fraction of the cost. For Oregon filers, the $14.99 state fee is especially attractive given the complexity of Oregon's transit tax and tiered bracket structure.
H&R Block uniquely combines digital tax software with the option for in-person help at thousands of retail locations. This hybrid model is ideal for taxpayers who want to start their return online but have the safety net of walking into an office for assistance. Pricing is competitive with TurboTax, sitting slightly below in most tiers.
H&R Block also stands out for international tax situations, offering strong support for expats and foreign income reporting. Their free tier handles simple W-2 returns and includes one state filing.
Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax) offers free federal and state filing for all supported tax situations. There are no paid tiers and no upsells. The platform handles W-2 income, 1099 income, itemized deductions, and even some investment income. It does not support more complex situations like multi-state filing or certain business forms.
If your tax situation is straightforward to moderately complex and you want to pay absolutely nothing, Cash App Taxes is the clear winner. Just be aware that customer support is more limited compared to paid alternatives.
Consider these factors when selecting your tax software for the 2026 filing season:
No matter which platform you choose, use the Oregon Income Tax Calculator to double-check your estimated liability before filing. Understanding your expected refund or balance due before you start helps you catch errors early.