Filing your federal income tax return doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right software, you can file your Form 1040 accurately, efficiently, and in many cases—entirely online. This guide compares the best tax software for filing Form 1040 in 2025, highlighting the features, pricing, and ease of use for top options like TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxSlayer, FreeTaxUSA, and others.
📄 What Is Form 1040?
Form 1040 is the U.S. individual income tax return. It’s required for most taxpayers, and it includes all income, deductions, credits, and tax calculations for the year. Most software options are designed to help users file Form 1040 with accuracy and confidence.
🏆 Top Tax Software for Form 1040 Filing in 2025
1. TurboTax by Intuit
- Best For: Beginners, complex returns, filers wanting live support
- Federal Filing: Free to $129 (varies by version)
- State Filing: $39–$59 per state
- Key Features: AI-assisted interviews, Audit Support Guarantee, TurboTax Live CPA/EA access
- Pros: Very user-friendly, excellent interface, robust mobile app
- Cons: Expensive compared to competitors
2. H&R Block
- Best For: All levels, especially filers needing in-person support
- Federal Filing: Free to $85
- State Filing: $39 per state
- Key Features: Online + in-person hybrid options, expert help available, generous free tier
- Pros: Physical offices for face-to-face help, accurate and affordable
- Cons: Interface slightly less intuitive than TurboTax
3. FreeTaxUSA
- Best For: Budget-conscious filers with simple or moderately complex returns
- Federal Filing: Always Free
- State Filing: $14.99 per state
- Key Features: Advanced tax form support (Schedule C, D), low cost, accuracy guarantee
- Pros: Best value, supports many forms, free federal filing for all
- Cons: No live chat or phone support with free tier
4. TaxSlayer
- Best For: Self-employed and experienced filers
- Federal Filing: Free to $59.95
- State Filing: $39.95 per state
- Key Features: Schedule C and 1099 support, IRS inquiries help, mobile-friendly
- Pros: Good for freelancers, fast interface, offers phone/email support
- Cons: Lacks full audit defense
5. Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax)
- Best For: Tech-savvy users with simple returns
- Federal Filing: Free
- State Filing: Free
- Key Features: Simple interface, built-in e-filing, supports most common forms
- Pros: 100% free, no upsells
- Cons: Doesn’t support foreign income, multiple states, or advanced scenarios
📊 Comparison Chart
| Software | Federal Filing | State Filing | Best For | Audit Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TurboTax | $0–$129 | $39–$59 | All return types, expert guidance | Yes |
| H&R Block | $0–$85 | $39 | In-person and online support | Yes |
| FreeTaxUSA | Free | $14.99 | Cost-conscious filers | Optional with paid add-on |
| TaxSlayer | $0–$59.95 | $39.95 | Freelancers and contractors | Basic support only |
| Cash App Taxes | Free | Free | Simple returns only | No audit defense |
🧮 Key Features to Consider When Choosing
- Form Support: Ensure support for your specific schedules (C, D, E, etc.)
- Live Help: Some offer access to EAs, CPAs, or tax pros via chat or video
- Refund Options: Direct deposit, refund advance, prepaid debit cards
- Audit Protection: Not all free plans offer assistance if you get audited
- Mobile Filing: Check for app availability and mobile ease-of-use
📌 What About IRS Free File?
The IRS Free File program partners with select tax software providers to offer no-cost filing for people with incomes below $79,000 (in 2025). Options vary by provider and may include restrictions.
🔍 People Also Ask (FAQs)
Q: Which tax software gives the biggest refund?
Refund size depends on accuracy and deductions claimed, not the software. However, tools like TurboTax and H&R Block provide deduction finders to optimize your refund.
Q: Can I use these for state taxes too?
Yes, but most providers charge a separate fee for state returns, unless you’re using Cash App Taxes.
Q: Which software is best for self-employed filers?
TurboTax Self-Employed, H&R Block Premium, and TaxSlayer Self-Employed are top options for gig workers and small business owners.
Q: What if I need to file an amended return?
Most software lets you file Form 1040-X, but often only for returns originally filed through their platform.
📘 Final Thoughts
For the 2025 tax season, TurboTax remains the most comprehensive, while H&R Block offers the best hybrid of digital and in-person help. If cost is your main concern, FreeTaxUSA or Cash App Taxes can get the job done with minimal expense. Evaluate your needs—complexity, support level, budget—and choose the platform that fits your situation best.
Pro Tip: Use the software’s refund estimator early in the season to see where you stand—and plan accordingly for deductions, credits, or IRA contributions before the filing deadline.
