Our verdict
TurboTax
4.3 4.3 out of 5- Best for
- Filers who want the smoothest experience or expert help — and will pay for it
- Fees
- Free Edition for simple returns only; self-employed tier ~$100–$130 federal + ~$59/state (2025 tax year — verify current pricing)
Our take
This TurboTax review comes down to one trade-off: TurboTax is the easiest tax software to use, and it charges accordingly. If filing taxes makes you nervous, or your return is complex, nothing else holds your hand as well. If you’re confident and price-conscious, you can almost certainly file the same return for less elsewhere.
Who it’s best for
TurboTax fits people who value a smooth, guided experience and don’t mind paying for it — first-time filers who want reassurance, anyone with a complicated return, and people who want the option to bring in a tax expert through Live Assisted or Full Service. It’s a weaker fit if you’re a confident filer chasing the lowest price.
Pricing & fees
TurboTax offers a Free Edition for simple Form 1040 returns only (Intuit says about 37% of filers qualify). Paid DIY tiers step up from there, and the tier that covers self-employment and investments runs roughly $100–$130 federal, plus about $59 per state. Live Assisted and Full Service cost more again.
These figures are for the 2025 tax year (filing in early 2026) — tax-software pricing changes every year and often rises as the deadline nears, so confirm the current-year price on TurboTax’s site before you start.
Features
The guided interview is the best in the business, with clean imports of W-2s, 1099s, and brokerage data, plus thorough deduction and credit finders. You can upgrade to Live Assisted for on-demand expert help or Full Service to hand the whole return to a pro. The mobile experience is polished, and prior-year data carries over smoothly.
How it compares
If your priority is cost rather than hand-holding, two alternatives stand out: FreeTaxUSA files federal returns free even for the self-employed, and TaxSlayer covers self-employed returns for a fraction of TurboTax’s price. See how all three stack up in our best tax software for self-employed guide, and if you’re new to filing, start with how to file taxes for the first time.
Pros
- The easiest, most polished filing experience of any mainstream tax software
- Excellent imports (W-2, 1099, and brokerage) and strong deduction guidance
- Handles complex returns well and reassures anxious filers
- Live Assisted and Full Service options if you want a tax pro involved
Cons
- The most expensive mainstream option, especially for self-employed returns
- Persistent upsells throughout the interview
- The 'Free Edition' rarely covers anything beyond a simple Form 1040
Alternatives to consider
FreeTaxUSA
Free federal filing even for self-employed and investors.
TaxSlayer
Much cheaper for self-employed returns.
Frequently asked questions
Is TurboTax really free?
Is TurboTax worth it for self-employed filers?
Is TurboTax safe and IRS-authorized?
Sources
Related guides
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How to File Taxes for the First Time (Step by Step)
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