Kemberley WashingtonTax Writer
Kemberley Washington is a tax journalist and provides consumer-friendly tax tips for individuals and businesses. Her work goes beyond tax articles. She has been instrumental in tax product reviews and online tax calculators to help individuals make i...
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Kemberley WashingtonTax Writer
Kemberley Washington is a tax journalist and provides consumer-friendly tax tips for individuals and businesses. Her work goes beyond tax articles. She has been instrumental in tax product reviews and online tax calculators to help individuals make i...
See Full Bio
Written By
Kemberley Washington
Kemberley WashingtonTax Writer
Kemberley Washington is a tax journalist and provides consumer-friendly tax tips for individuals and businesses. Her work goes beyond tax articles. She has been instrumental in tax product reviews and online tax calculators to help individuals make i...
See Full Bio
Kemberley WashingtonTax Writer
Kemberley Washington is a tax journalist and provides consumer-friendly tax tips for individuals and businesses. Her work goes beyond tax articles. She has been instrumental in tax product reviews and online tax calculators to help individuals make i...
See Full Bio
Tax Writer
Doug WhitemanPersonal Finance Editor
Doug Whiteman is an award-winning journalist with three decades of experience covering personal finance, starting when he was the Washington, D.C.-based consumer news editor and reporter for Associated Press Radio in the 1990s and early 2000s. He's p...
See Full Bio
Doug WhitemanPersonal Finance Editor
Doug Whiteman is an award-winning journalist with three decades of experience covering personal finance, starting when he was the Washington, D.C.-based consumer news editor and reporter for Associated Press Radio in the 1990s and early 2000s. He's p...
See Full Bio
Doug Whiteman
Doug WhitemanPersonal Finance Editor
Doug Whiteman is an award-winning journalist with three decades of experience covering personal finance, starting when he was the Washington, D.C.-based consumer news editor and reporter for Associated Press Radio in the 1990s and early 2000s. He's p...
See Full Bio
Doug WhitemanPersonal Finance Editor
Doug Whiteman is an award-winning journalist with three decades of experience covering personal finance, starting when he was the Washington, D.C.-based consumer news editor and reporter for Associated Press Radio in the 1990s and early 2000s. He's p...
See Full Bio
Reviewed
& 1 other
Updated: Aug 30, 2024, 3:48am
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
The 2023-2024 tax season ended in April, but if you filed an extension, you have until October 15, 2024 to file your tax return. If you did not get an extension, file today to prevent additional late fees.
A tax app can make filing your tax return easier and allow you to import data directly from your smartphone. Most tax apps also provide helpful tips, offer direct uploads and provide assistance from a tax expert to help you file.
While you could opt to use traditional tax software instead, a mobile app may be all you need to get your taxes filed and checked off your to-do list. Here are our top picks for the best tax apps to help you file your tax return in 2024.
Why you can trust Forbes Advisor
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Show Summary
- Best Tax Apps Of September 2024
- Summary: Best Tax Filing Apps Of September 2024
- Cash App Taxes
- TurboTax
- TaxSlayer
- MyBlock
- Complete Guide to the Best Tax Filing Apps
- What Is a Mobile Tax App?
- How Does a Mobile Tax App Work?
- Who Can File Taxes From a Mobile App?
- Do You Need a Mobile Tax App?
- Pros and Cons of Filing Taxes Using a Mobile App
- How To Choose the Best Tax App
- Methodology
- Next Up In Taxes
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best Tax Apps Of September 2024
- Cash App Taxes– Best Tax App for Free Tax Filings
- TurboTax – Best Tax App for Complicated Tax Filings
- TaxSlayer – Best Tax App for Guidance When Filing
- MyBlock – Best Tax App for Value
| Company | Company - Logo | Forbes Advisor Rating | Forbes Advisor Rating - Image | Best For | Base Price for Filing | Free Option? | Learn More CTA text | Learn more CTA below text | LEARN MORE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash App Taxes |  | 5.0 |  | Free tax filings | $0 | Yes | Learn More | On Cash App Taxes' Website | |
| TurboTax |  | 4.4 |  | Complicated tax filings | $69 | Yes | Learn More | On Intuit's Website | |
| TaxSlayer |  | 4.3 |  | Guidance when filing | $37.95 | Yes | Learn More | On TaxSlayer's Website | |
| MyBlock |  | 3.7 |  | Value | $55 | Yes | Learn More | Read Our Full Review |
Best for Free Tax Filings
Cash App Taxes
5.0
Our star ratings are based on a range of criteria and are determined solely by our editorial team. See our methodology for more information.
Base Price for Filing
$0
Free Option?
Yes
Good for
Free filing of more complicated returns
On Cash App Taxes' Website
$0
Yes
Free filing of more complicated returns
Editor's Take
We loved how Cash App Taxes allows you to prepare your taxes at no charge, despite how many tax forms you may have. (This isn’t the case for other tax online apps.) Also, Cash App Taxes doesn’t try to upsell you, so you can rest assured that your filing is completely free.
Overall, we found Cash App Taxes to be a great choice even if you have numerous tax forms and situations. Users have access to Schedule SE for self-employment taxes and Schedule C to report business income or loss from a sole proprietorship.
Cash App Taxes doesn’t provide tax expert assistance, but it won’t leave you completely alone to file your taxes. The app offers limited customer support through email or chat, but not by phone. Even so, when we tested the app’s assistance in filing, we found its customer support satisfactory.
Pros & Cons
- Completely free
- Won’t try to upsell you throughout the process like some competitors do
- Cash App receives a high 4.8 stars in the App Store and 4.6 stars via Google Play.
- Doesn’t provide phone support
Best for Complicated Tax Filings
TurboTax
4.4
Our star ratings are based on a range of criteria and are determined solely by our editorial team. See our methodology for more information.
Base Price for Filing
$69
Free Option?
For simple tax returns only. See if you qualify.
Yes
Good for
Ease of use, advanced features, tax expert assistance
On Intuit's Website
$69
For simple tax returns only. See if you qualify.
Yes
Ease of use, advanced features, tax expert assistance
Editor's Take
If you’ve got a complex tax situation and need a tax app that can do just about everything, the TurboTax appmay appeal to you. What we loved most about TurboTax is that it provides an easy navigation tool, helpful tax tips, live tax advice, an accessible online chat and much more, all in a very clean interface.
Even with the app’s many features, we found TurboTax the easiest to use of all the tax apps we tested.
Overall, TurboTax is a solid tax app, especially if your tax return needs extra care. Speaking as a certified public accountant (CPA), what stands out to me most is the TurboTax app’s user-friendly questionnaire. The app asks you about your tax situation in a way that’s similar to the questions you’d face during a meeting with a tax professional.
There may be a cost to filing your taxes with the app, depending on your tax situation. If you have a complicated tax filing, such as one with self-employment income or a slew of write-offs, you should expect to pay. And the TurboTax app may try to upsell you on pricey add-ons, too.
For simple returns—with one W-2 and no deductions—state and federal filing is free.**
Pros & Cons
- User-friendly navigation tools
- Tax tips, articles and live tax expert help
- The app is rated 4.8 stars in the App Store and 4.5 on Google Play.
- Will try to upsell you on services you may not need
Best for Guidance When Filing
TaxSlayer
4.3
Our star ratings are based on a range of criteria and are determined solely by our editorial team. See our methodology for more information.
Base Price for Filing
Classic: See offer landing page for details.
$37.95
Free Option?
Yes
Good For
A guided filing experience
On TaxSlayer's Website
Classic: See offer landing page for details.
$37.95
Yes
A guided filing experience
Editor's Take
If you need guidance while filing your tax return, TaxSlayeris a great choice. The app allows you to complete your return using either a guided interview or a “quick forms” feature. Our team loved the quick forms option, which allows you to navigate directly to the sections that apply to your particular tax situation. It can speed up tax filing for those who have more tax knowledge.
As with other tax apps, you can choose to upload your tax forms from your smartphone or manually enter your tax data. The TaxSlayer app offers assistance with submitting your return or handling technical difficulties; it also provides helpful topics to answer your tax questions.
And with TaxSlayer, you don’t have to wait until you complete your tax return to see the amount of your tax refund—or the amount you owe. The app displays your tax results as you enter your tax information, so you see how certain tax items, such as deductions and credits, can affect your tax bill.
One drawback: The “Simply Free” option on TaxSlayer’s app doesn’t offer help from tax professionals to assist with your return.
Pros & Cons
- Simple and easy-to-use navigation tools to help you complete your tax return quickly
- It scores 4.8 stars in the App Store and 4.2 on Google Play.
- No access to expert tax assistance when using the app’s “Simply Free” option
Best for Value
MyBlock
3.7
Our star ratings are based on a range of criteria and are determined solely by our editorial team. See our methodology for more information.
Base Price for Filing
$55
Free Option?
Yes
Good for
Ease of use, simple navigation tools and easy upload features
$55
Yes
Ease of use, simple navigation tools and easy upload features
Editor's Take
MyBlock is a tax app created by that delivers great value: It’s simple to use, featuring easy uploading of your W-2 and other tax forms from your smartphone, and enabling you to store, organize and refer to whatever tax documents you’ll need to include. (You can also choose to enter your information manually.) It gives you access to the extensive resources of H&R Block, while a new companion app from Block, Tax Prep, provides extra guidance using its artificial intelligence AI Tax Assist.
A series of straightforward questions helps you navigate through the process. As you work, it displays your estimated tax refund or the expected amount owed. We found it helpful to see in real time how an income item or deduction affects the tax bill.
The app provides answers to frequently asked questions to help you file accurately. If you need assistance with your return while using MyBlock, you can work with an H&R Block tax pro via secure messaging, screen sharing and video chat.
The downside of using an app that’s part of the Block family of products is that the app will try to upsell you additional services that you may not need.
Pros & Cons
- User-friendly tax app
- Easy upload options from your smartphone
- Q&A session to help guide you through the filing process
- Tries to upsell you additional services
- Earns lower ratings than competitors: 4.6 stars on the App Store and 4.1 via Google Play
Complete Guide to the Best Tax Filing Apps
- What Is a Mobile Tax App?
- How Does a Mobile Tax App Work?
- Who Can File Taxes From a Mobile App?
- Do You Need a Mobile Tax App?
- Pros and Cons of Filing Taxes Using a Mobile App
- How To Choose the Best Tax App
What Is a Mobile Tax App?
A mobile tax app is a tool that can be installed on your smartphone, tablet or other electronic device to allow you to complete and file your federal and state tax returns using your gadget.
Most tax apps let you import tax documents directly from your smartphone and provide assistance to help you file. Typically, tax apps are easy to use and offer a guided question-and-answer format to help you file accurately.
With many tax apps, a simple tax return can be filed for free.
How Does a Mobile Tax App Work?
A mobile tax app works similarly to desktop or online tax software. However, tax apps are used on mobile devices, like your smartphone, and you’ll be seeing everything on a small screen.
While each tax app may differ, most will allow you to either upload your tax forms directly via your mobile device or manually enter your data. As you enter your information, you are offered helpful tools and tips to file an accurate tax return. Upon completion, the app will indicate your expected tax refund or the amount you owe. You can then file your return electronically through the tax app or opt to print out a paper copy and mail it to the IRS the old-fashioned way.
Who Can File Taxes From a Mobile App?
Most individuals and small business owners can use mobile tax apps to file their returns. The apps are best for those with relatively basic taxes, maybe involving one W-2 and a few deductions. However, if you have a complicated return, such as a partnership or corporate tax return, you’ll want to use online tax software or even hire a tax professional.
Also, you may want to skip using a mobile tax app if you have multiple state tax returns to file. Some apps, such as Cash App Taxes, won’t allow you to file multiple state returns.
Do You Need a Mobile Tax App?
Not everyone needs a mobile tax app, but it may be a good choice if you:
- Have limited access to a secure computer and usually use a smartphone or tablet
- Need to scan or upload tax-related documents via your phone
- Prefer the convenience of doing your taxes in the comfort of your home or office, at any time of day or night, rather than visiting a busy tax office during business hours
Pros and Cons of Filing Taxes Using a Mobile App
Filing your taxes using a mobile app has many advantages. For starters, you can download it to your phone or tablet and use it on the go. It allows you to directly upload tax documents from your phone or import from other sources to complete your tax filing quickly.
The best apps allow you to easily navigate through the filing process to submit your tax return fast.
Most importantly, the cost of a tax app is a fraction of what you may pay for a full online tax service or using a tax professional.
However, tax apps also come with disadvantages. Unlike preparing your taxes on a computer, using a tax app may provide limited form options or customer support. Also, some tax apps, such as Cash App Taxes, won’t allow you to file multiple state tax returns.
How To Choose the Best Tax App
Choosing the app that works best for your tax situation is essential. Here are several aspects to consider:
- Understand the tax app’s price and features. For example, you may want to forgo using a certain tax app if you have complicated taxes. That’s because many tax apps are limited in the forms and schedules they support.
- Consider tax apps that allow you to start your tax return for free. This way, you can get an idea of how to navigate the app and whether you feel comfortable with it before you have to pay for it.
- Choose a tax app with a simple interface for smooth navigation. If you are a novice or have little knowledge about taxes, opt for the app that gives you what you need without too much complexity. It’s wise to confirm that the app has such helpful features as easy importing of financial data, step-by-step tax guidance, reliable customer support and a variety of tax forms.
- Do your research before signing up for a tax app. Security is key, so determine if the app provides extra security measures to protect your data. Look through customer reviews to confirm that users find the app to be secure. The app should use strong encryption and authentication methods to help protect your personal and financial information.
Pro Tip
Choosing quality tax software can help you save time and money when filing your taxes. Take the time to find the best tax software that works for you.
Featured Partner Offers
1
TurboTax Deluxe
Federal Filing Fee
$69
State Filing Fee
$64
2
TaxSlayer
Federal Filing Fee
Classic: See offer landing page for details.
$37.95
State Filing Fee
$44.95
3
TaxSlayer Premium
Federal Filing Fee
Premium: See offer landing page for details. Includes all forms + live chat support, Ask a Tax Pro, front-of-the-line assistance.
$57.95
State Filing Fee
$44.95
Methodology
We looked at the apps offered by six popular online tax software providers: Cash App Taxes, TurboTax, TaxSlayer, H&R Block, TaxAct Express and Liberty Tax. We narrowed our list to four finalists whose apps provide the best options and functionality.
Members of our research team then analyzed the four and scored each option in the following categories: free filing options, customer service options, price, interface, reliability and ease of use. The scores were used for our final ranking.
While tax apps offer a quick and easy way to file, if you have a more complicated tax return, such as a partnership or corporate tax return, you may want to consider hiring a certified public accountant (CPA).
To learn more about how Forbes Advisor rates tax products, and our editorial process, check out our
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an app to file my taxes?
Tax apps are quick and typically easy to use. Usually, you can use them to file your taxes. However, consider hiring a tax professional or seeking online tax software to prepare your tax return if you have a complicated one.
What apps can I use to file my taxes for free?
Most tax apps charge a fee to file your taxes. However, some tax apps do allow you to file for free. At the time of publication, CashApp offers a free tax app people can use to file.
What happens after you file with a tax app?
As with online or desktop tax preparation software, after you file your taxes with a tax app, you can expect that the IRS and state revenue department will process your tax return. You can also request direct deposit for your tax refund.
Next Up In Taxes
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- Best Tax Software
- When Will I Get My Refund
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- TurboTax Review
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Information provided on Forbes Advisor is for educational purposes only. Your financial situation is unique and the products and services we review may not be right for your circ*mstances. We do not offer financial advice, advisory or brokerage services, nor do we recommend or advise individuals or to buy or sell particular stocks or securities. Performance information may have changed since the time of publication. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Forbes Advisor adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.
