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Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. Easy-to-download programs like TurboTax Home & Business, H&R Block Deluxe & State and TurboTax Deluxe Federal & State guide you step by step through filing, while helping pinpoint deductions and credits. Buying tax software now gives you time to prepare well ahead of the April 15 deadline, and a couple of them have free options.

TaxAct: Free to $74.99

Choose from different options that meet your tax-filing needs. (TaxAct)

TaxAct offers four filing options designed to meet different needs, from simple returns to self-employed income. The free version covers basic returns and is limited to filers with qualifying income and deductions. For more support, the Deluxe plan ($29.99) includes everything in the free version and is a good fit for homeowners, parents claiming dependents, and filers with a Health Savings Account.

The Premier plan ($49.99) builds on Deluxe with additional forms for investors and landlords. Self-employed filers can opt for the Self-Employed plan ($74.99), designed for freelancers, contractors, and gig workers. Optional live tax advice is available with any package, and state filing costs an additional $39.99.

TurboTax: $70 to $95

File tax with confidence using TurboTax software. (iStock)

Depending on your tax needs, TurboTax offers several desktop software options for the 2025 filing season. The Deluxe plan ($70) is ideal for homeowners and filers with charitable donations or medical expenses. It checks for more than 375 credits and deductions and includes one state return and five federal e-files. The software is also available for purchase on Amazon, where it’s currently on sale.

The Premier plan ($105) is best for freelancers, contractors, and side hustlers. Built-in tools let you file personal and business taxes together while helping identify job-related deductions. It’s available on sale on Amazon if you prefer to shop there.

The Home & Business option ($95) is designed for filers who sold investments or own rental property. It walks you through reporting income from those sources and maximizing deductions. You can also find it on Amazon.

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E-file.com: Free to $42.99

E-file.com has affordable packages with a direct line to help. (E-file.com)

E-file.com provides a simple, budget-friendly way to file your taxes online. The free version is available for single or joint filers with under $100,000 in wages and limited deductions or credits.

The Deluxe Plus ($25.49) option is a strong fit for those with dependents, mortgage interest or retirement income, and comes with phone and online support. Premium Plus ($42.49) is designed for filers with itemized deductions, business and personal income, or more complex credit schedules. It also includes full audit support and priority phone assistance.

H&R Block Deluxe + State: $39.97 (33% off)

Original price: $59.99

File taxes with AI assistance with this program. (StackSocial)

H&R Block’s 2025 desktop tax software simplifies filing for everyone from W-2 earners to gig workers and investors. Get a deal on Deluxe + State version right on StackSocial. It includes step-by-step guidance, accuracy checks and support for common deductions like mortgage interest and charitable donations. It comes with five federal e-files and one state return (a $39.95 value) and is also available at a discount on Amazon.  

If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.