Highest Rated Tax Return Preparation

Tax return preparation involves gathering and organizing financial documents and information to accurately report income, deductions, and credits to the government. This process ensures individuals and businesses comply with tax laws and regulations while minimizing their tax liabilities.

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The process of tax return preparation typically includes several steps. Initially, taxpayers must collect relevant financial documents such as W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductible expenses, and records of other income sources. Once all necessary documentation is gathered, the next step involves choosing the appropriate tax forms and schedules, which can vary depending on the taxpayer's situation. The actual preparation involves entering the gathered information into these forms, either manually or using tax preparation software. Tax professionals or certified public accountants (CPAs) are often consulted to ensure accuracy and to identify potential deductions and credits that may reduce the overall tax burden. Once the forms are completed, they must be reviewed for errors and then filed with the appropriate tax authorities by the designated deadline. Proper tax return preparation is crucial to avoid penalties, interest, and to ensure compliance with tax laws.

  • H&R Block
    H&R Block

    H&R Block - Tax preparation and financial services company.

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  • TurboTax
    TurboTax

    TurboTax - Online tax preparation software for individuals and businesses.

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  • Jackson Hewitt
    Jackson Hewitt

    Jackson Hewitt - Jackson Hewitt: Tax preparation and filing services.

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  • Liberty Tax Service
    Liberty Tax Service

    Liberty Tax Service - Liberty Tax Service: Tax preparation and filing services.

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  • TaxSlayer
    TaxSlayer

    TaxSlayer - TaxSlayer: User-friendly tax preparation software for individuals and businesses.

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  • EY TaxChat
    EY TaxChat

    EY TaxChat - EY TaxChat: Virtual tax filing service for individuals.

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  • KPMG Spark
    KPMG Spark

    KPMG Spark - Cloud-based accounting service for small businesses.

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  • FreeTaxUSA
    FreeTaxUSA

    FreeTaxUSA - FreeTaxUSA is an online tax preparation and filing service.

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  • TaxAct
    TaxAct

    TaxAct - TaxAct: Online tax preparation and e-filing software.

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  • Credit Karma Tax
    Credit Karma Tax

    Credit Karma Tax - Credit Karma Tax provides free online tax filing services.

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Highest Rated Tax Return Preparation

1.

H&R Block

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H&R Block is a global consumer tax services provider founded in 1955 by brothers Henry and Richard Bloch. Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, the company offers tax preparation services, digital do-it-yourself tax solutions, and financial products for individuals and small businesses. With a network of retail offices and an online presence, H&R Block serves millions of clients annually, aiming to simplify the tax filing process and maximize refunds.

Pros

  • pros Expertise in tax preparation
  • pros multiple locations
  • pros online filing options
  • pros audit support
  • pros transparent pricing.

Cons

  • consHigher fees
  • cons limited in-depth financial planning
  • cons potential upselling
  • cons varying quality of service
  • cons not available year-round.
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2.

TurboTax

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TurboTax is a popular tax preparation software developed by Intuit. It offers a user-friendly interface that guides individuals and small businesses through the process of filing their federal and state tax returns. The software provides various versions tailored to different tax situations, from simple returns to complex scenarios involving investments and self-employment. TurboTax also features tools for maximizing deductions, credits, and ensures accuracy with its audit support and refund guarantee services.

Pros

  • pros easy to use
  • pros accurate calculations
  • pros supports various tax forms
  • pros offers audit support
  • pros integrates with financial apps

Cons

  • conscan be expensive
  • cons upsells additional services
  • cons requires internet connection
  • cons limited human support
  • cons not ideal for complex taxes
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3.

Jackson Hewitt

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Jackson Hewitt is a leading tax preparation service in the United States, known for providing reliable and affordable tax solutions. Established in 1982, the company operates through both franchised and company-owned locations, offering in-person, online, and mobile filing options. Jackson Hewitt is recognized for its customer-centric approach, including flexible hours and a satisfaction guarantee, making tax filing convenient and accessible for individuals and small businesses alike.

Pros

  • pros Convenient locations
  • pros Extended hours
  • pros Experienced tax professionals
  • pros Multiple refund options
  • pros Offers tax advance loans

Cons

  • consHigher fees
  • cons Limited availability of some services
  • cons Potential for upselling
  • cons Variable quality of service
  • cons Not always the most personalized
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4.

Liberty Tax Service

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Liberty Tax Service is a tax preparation company based in the United States, founded in 1997. It offers a range of tax-related services, including individual and business tax preparation, electronic filing, and refund options. Known for its distinctive marketing, often featuring people dressed as the Statue of Liberty, the company has numerous franchise locations across the country. Liberty Tax aims to provide efficient and accurate tax services, emphasizing customer satisfaction and community involvement.

Pros

  • pros Personalized service
  • pros nationwide locations
  • pros flexible appointment options
  • pros audit assistance
  • pros competitive pricing.

Cons

  • consMixed customer reviews
  • cons potential upselling
  • cons varying office quality
  • cons limited online tools
  • cons higher fees for complex returns.
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5.

TaxSlayer

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TaxSlayer is a financial technology company specializing in online tax preparation and e-filing services. Founded in 1965, the company offers user-friendly software that caters to individuals, tax professionals, and small businesses. TaxSlayer provides various tiers of service, from basic free filing options to more comprehensive packages that include audit defense and live support. Renowned for its affordability and ease of use, TaxSlayer aims to simplify the tax filing process for all its users.

Pros

  • pros Affordable pricing options
  • pros Easy-to-use interface
  • pros Accurate calculations
  • pros Quick refund processing
  • pros Free federal filing for simple returns

Cons

  • consLimited customer support
  • cons Extra fees for state returns
  • cons No in-person support
  • cons Limited audit assistance
  • cons Occasional website glitches
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6.

EY TaxChat

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EY TaxChat is a digital tax preparation service provided by Ernst & Young (EY) that connects users with experienced tax professionals for personalized tax advice and filing. Accessible via a secure mobile app or web platform, it allows individuals and small businesses to efficiently manage their tax obligations with ease and confidence. EY TaxChat offers tailored solutions, ensuring compliance with current tax laws while maximizing potential refunds and minimizing liabilities.

Pros

  • pros Convenience
  • pros Expert advice
  • pros Secure data handling
  • pros Time-saving
  • pros User-friendly interface

Cons

  • consCostly
  • cons Limited personal interaction
  • cons Complexity for simple returns
  • cons Dependence on internet
  • cons Potential technical glitches
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7.

KPMG Spark

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KPMG Spark is an online bookkeeping service designed to simplify financial management for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers real-time bookkeeping, tax preparation, and payroll services through a user-friendly digital platform. By leveraging advanced technology and professional expertise, KPMG Spark provides accurate financial reporting and insights, helping businesses make informed decisions. The service aims to reduce administrative burdens and ensure compliance, allowing business owners to focus more on growth and operations.

Pros

  • pros Easy online access
  • pros Real-time financial updates
  • pros Professional bookkeeping services
  • pros Integration with major accounting software
  • pros Dedicated support team.

Cons

  • consHigher cost for advanced features
  • cons Limited customization
  • cons Potential for impersonal service
  • cons Dependence on internet connectivity
  • cons Learning curve for new users.
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8.

FreeTaxUSA

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FreeTaxUSA is an online tax preparation service that offers free federal tax filing and affordable state tax filing. Known for its user-friendly interface, it guides users through the process of preparing and filing their taxes with step-by-step instructions. The service includes features like import of previous tax returns, error-checking, and support for a wide range of tax situations. FreeTaxUSA also provides customer support and various online resources to help users navigate their tax filing needs.

Pros

  • pros Free federal filing
  • pros Low-cost state filing
  • pros Easy to use interface
  • pros Detailed tax guides available
  • pros Supports complex returns.

Cons

  • consLimited customer support
  • cons No mobile app
  • cons Upsells for additional features
  • cons Limited import options
  • cons No in-person support.
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9.

TaxAct

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TaxAct is a U.S.-based software company that provides online tax preparation services for individuals, businesses, and tax professionals. Founded in 1998, the platform offers a range of affordable tools to help users file their federal and state taxes accurately and efficiently. Known for its user-friendly interface and step-by-step guidance, TaxAct aims to simplify the tax filing process by offering features like error checking, maximum refund guarantees, and access to expert support.

Pros

  • pros Affordable pricing options
  • pros Easy-to-use interface
  • pros Free version available
  • pros Accurate calculations
  • pros Import previous returns.

Cons

  • consLimited customer support
  • cons Extra fees for state returns
  • cons Basic investment tools
  • cons No in-person support
  • cons Limited advanced tax features.
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10.

Credit Karma Tax

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Credit Karma Tax is a free online tax filing service provided by the financial technology company Credit Karma. It allows users to prepare and file their federal and state tax returns without any charges. The platform supports various tax situations and offers a user-friendly interface to guide individuals through the tax preparation process. Additionally, Credit Karma Tax provides audit defense and guarantees accuracy and maximum refunds. Note, as of 2021, Credit Karma Tax was acquired by Cash App and rebranded as Cash App Taxes.

Pros

  • pros Free to use
  • pros Simple interface
  • pros No upsells
  • pros Accurate calculations
  • pros Covers most tax situations.

Cons

  • consLimited state support
  • cons No professional assistance
  • cons Lacks advanced features
  • cons Limited audit support
  • cons Slow customer service.
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