Online tax filing software

Cost: $0 for eligible federal returns; state filing depends on the provider.

Start at IRS Free File

2. TurboTax

Best for: First-time filers who want lots of guidance.

It walks you through questions in plain language and explains common tax terms. Its free edition is limited to qualifying simple returns, and some situations require a paid upgrade.

Cost: $0 if you qualify for the free edition; otherwise, paid plans may apply.

Try TurboTax

3. H&R Block

Best for: People who want a simple online experience with the option of in-person help.

Its free online edition covers many common situations, including eligible education credits and unemployment income. More complicated deductions and income types may require an upgrade.

Cost: $0 for qualifying federal and state returns.

Try H&R Block

4. Cash App Taxes

Best for: People whose top priority is free federal and state filing.

It advertises free federal and state returns and supports a broad range of tax situations. However, professional tax-preparation support is limited, so it's less ideal if you want someone to guide you through every unusual detail.

Cost: $0 for eligible returns; check supported forms and state restrictions.

Explore Cash App Taxes

5. FreeTaxUSA

Best for: People who want low-cost filing without being limited to only the simplest tax forms.

Federal filing is free even for many returns involving investments, itemized deductions, or self-employment. State filing costs extra, so it may not be the cheapest choice if you need only a basic return and qualify for another service's free state option.

Cost: $0 federal; state filing generally costs extra.

Try FreeTaxUSA

Sources: IRS Free File guidance and CNBC Select's 2026 tax-software comparison.www.irs.gov+1

My recommendation for you

• Want the easiest experience? TurboTax.
• Want to pay as little as possible? IRS Free File.
• Want a free alternative with broader tax-form support? Cash App Taxes or FreeTaxUSA.

If you're filing as a Texas resident, you generally don't need a state individual income tax return, so I'd focus on free federal filing.

One quick question so I can narrow this down to the best option for your situation:

What's your tax situation?

1. What kind of income do you have?

Regular job (W-2) only

W-2 plus bank interest or investments

Self-employed, freelance, or gig work

Retirement or Social Security income

Something else / not sure

2. What's most important to you?

Completely free filing

Easiest for a beginner

Access to a tax expert

3. Which tax year are you filing?

2025 taxes (filed in 2026)

2026 taxes (filed in 2027)

An earlier year

[Find my best option]

If you qualify based on your adjusted gross income, you can also check out the official IRS Free File Program to use brand-name software completely free.

To help narrow down the best option, tell me:

• Do you have simple W-2 income , or do you need to file for freelance/self-employment/investments?
• Are you looking for a completely free option, or do you want live expert help/support?

A quick rule of thumb:

• Simple W-2 job, standard deduction: Cash App Taxes or FreeTaxUSA are worth looking at.Taxo
• First time filing or you want lots of guidance: TurboTax or H&R Block.CNBC+1
• Freelancer/1099 income, rental property, investments, or more complex taxes: FreeTaxUSA, H&R Block, TurboTax, or TaxAct depending on how much help you need.NerdWallet+1
• You want a human to review your return: H&R Block or TurboTax’s paid assistance options.WIRED+1

If you tell me your situation (W-2 only, self-employed, rental property, investments/crypto, number of states, and whether you want free vs. paid), I can narrow it down.