If you don't want to spend a bundle on a tax preparation service, FreeTaxUSA should be at the top of your list. You can use the software to file your federal taxes for free, and state returns cost just $14.99. It also supports all major IRS forms and schedules, is fast and easy to use, and provides multiple types of help. It's an especially good bargain if you're self-employed, since many competitors charge hefty fees for filing a Schedule C. FreeTaxUSA earns our Editors' Choice award for tax prep alongside Intuit TurboTax, which offers extra assistance and a more state-of-the-art user experience for a premium price.

The most notable addition to FreeTaxUSA for the 2024 tax year, beyond the usual minor enhancements, is the ability to snap a photo of a W-2 form and upload it to the site (PDF import is still an option as well). With the latest version, you can also upload Form 1099-B and Form 8949 (for stock and crypto transactions). And the site’s growing online community now includes over 160 help articles and 1,000+ discussions.

As mentioned, FreeTaxUSA is free for federal returns (hence its name) and charges $14.99 for state returns. The Deluxe version, which costs $7.99, adds priority support with live chat and unlimited amended returns. It's well worth the modest extra cost. For $39.99, you can ask both federal and state tax questions of a professional by chat, phone, or screen share. This fee goes up to $49.99 later in the tax season.