The three most popular tax software options, head-to-head. Which one actually gets you the biggest refund for the lowest cost?
TurboTax
$89–$169
Federal + $59 state
H&R Block
$85–$225
Federal + $37–$50 state
FreeTaxUSA
$0
Federal + $14.99 state
Refund Maximization
All three software options support the same tax forms and credits. The difference is in how they guide you to claim them.
- TurboTax: Most thorough interview process. Asks follow-up questions that surface hidden deductions. Estimated credit catch rate: ~92%.
- H&R Block: Solid question flow, but slightly less granular than TurboTax. Estimated catch rate: ~90%.
- FreeTaxUSA: Straightforward form-based entry. Requires you to know what credits you qualify for. Estimated catch rate: ~85%.
User Experience
| Feature | TurboTax | H&R Block | FreeTaxUSA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interface polish | Excellent | Good | Functional |
| Mobile app | Excellent | Good | Basic |
| W-2 photo import | Yes | Yes | No |
| Real-time refund tracker | Yes | Yes | No |
| Live expert help | $89+ extra | Included in some tiers | Email only |
| Audit defense | $49 extra | Included in some tiers | Free |
Cost Comparison for Typical Filers
Simple return (W-2, standard deduction):
- TurboTax Free Edition: $0 (federal + state)
- H&R Block Free: $0 (federal + state)
- FreeTaxUSA: $0 federal + $14.99 state
Moderate complexity (W-2 + child tax credit + student loan interest):
- TurboTax Deluxe: $89 + $59 = $148
- H&R Block Deluxe: $85 + $37 = $122
- FreeTaxUSA: $0 + $14.99 = $14.99
Self-employed (W-2 + 1099-NEC + home office):
- TurboTax Self-Employed: $169 + $59 = $228
- H&R Block Self-Employed: $115 + $50 = $165
- FreeTaxUSA: $0 + $14.99 = $14.99
Our Recommendation
- Choose TurboTax if you want maximum refund confidence and don't mind paying for it
- Choose H&R Block if you want the safety net of in-person support
- Choose FreeTaxUSA if you're confident in your tax knowledge and want to keep your refund
Try Before You Buy
All three let you start for free and pay only when you file. Start with FreeTaxUSA, and if you feel uncertain, switch to TurboTax before submitting.
Start FreeTaxUSA →All reputable tax software uses the same IRS forms and calculations. The difference is user experience and guidance. If you know what you're doing, FreeTaxUSA is just as accurate as TurboTax. If you need hand-holding, TurboTax is worth the premium.