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Kemberley Washington is a tax journalist and provides consumer-friendly tax tips for individuals and businesses. Her work goes beyond tax articles. She has been instrumental in tax product reviews and online tax calculators to help individuals make informed tax decisions. Her work has been featured in Yahoo Finance, Bankrate.com, SmartAsset, Black Enterprise, New Orleans Agenda, and more. She frequently appears on NBC's WDSU news broadcast.
Kemberley Washington
Kemberley Washington is a tax journalist and provides consumer-friendly tax tips for individuals and businesses. Her work goes beyond tax articles. She has been instrumental in tax product reviews and online tax calculators to help individuals make informed tax decisions. Her work has been featured in Yahoo Finance, Bankrate.com, SmartAsset, Black Enterprise, New Orleans Agenda, and more. She frequently appears on NBC's WDSU news broadcast.
Doug Whiteman is an award-winning journalist with three decades of experience covering personal finance, starting when he was the Washington, D.C.-based consumer news editor and reporter for Associated Press Radio in the 1990s and early 2000s. He's passionate about making financial information clear and useful for consumers — taking personal finance from "Huh?" to "Ah!" He has been quoted by numerous media outlets including The Wall Street Journal, CBS News and USA Today.
Reviewed
Doug Whiteman
Doug Whiteman is an award-winning journalist with three decades of experience covering personal finance, starting when he was the Washington, D.C.-based consumer news editor and reporter for Associated Press Radio in the 1990s and early 2000s. He's passionate about making financial information clear and useful for consumers — taking personal finance from "Huh?" to "Ah!" He has been quoted by numerous media outlets including The Wall Street Journal, CBS News and USA Today.
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
Note: The deadline to file your 2023 tax return was Monday, April 15, 2024.
A tax app can make filing your tax return easier and allow you to import data directly from your smartphone. Most tax apps also provide helpful tips, offer direct uploads and provide assistance from a tax expert to help you file.
While you could opt to use traditional tax software instead, a mobile app may be all you need to get your taxes filed and checked off your to-do list. Here are our top picks for the best tax apps to help you file your tax return in 2024.
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Show Summary
- Best Tax Apps Of April 2024
- Summary: Best Tax Filing Apps Of April 2024
- Cash App Taxes
- TurboTax
- TaxSlayer
- MyBlock
- Complete Guide to the Best Tax Filing Apps
- What Is a Mobile Tax App?
- How Does a Mobile Tax App Work?
- Who Can File Taxes From a Mobile App?
- Do You Need a Mobile Tax App?
- Pros and Cons of Filing Taxes Using a Mobile App
- How To Choose the Best Tax App
- Methodology
- Next Up In Taxes
Best Tax Apps Of April 2024
- Cash App Taxes – Best Tax App for Free Tax Filings
- TurboTax – Best Tax App for Complicated Tax Filings
- TaxSlayer – Best Tax App for Guidance When Filing
- MyBlock – Best Tax App for Value
Complete Guide to the Best Tax Filing Apps
What Is a Mobile Tax App?
A mobile tax app is a tool that can be installed on your smartphone, tablet or other electronic device to allow you to complete and file your federal and state tax returns using your gadget.
Most tax apps let you import tax documents directly from your smartphone and provide assistance to help you file. Typically, tax apps are easy to use and offer a guided question-and-answer format to help you file accurately.
With many tax apps, a simple tax return can be filed for free.
How Does a Mobile Tax App Work?
A mobile tax app works similarly to desktop or online tax software. However, tax apps are used on mobile devices, like your smartphone, and you’ll be seeing everything on a small screen.
While each tax app may differ, most will allow you to either upload your tax forms directly via your mobile device or manually enter your data. As you enter your information, you are offered helpful tools and tips to file an accurate tax return. Upon completion, the app will indicate your expected tax refund or the amount you owe. You can then file your return electronically through the tax app or opt to print out a paper copy and mail it to the IRS the old-fashioned way.
Who Can File Taxes From a Mobile App?
Most individuals and small business owners can use mobile tax apps to file their returns. The apps are best for those with relatively basic taxes, maybe involving one W-2 and a few deductions. However, if you have a complicated return, such as a partnership or corporate tax return, you’ll want to use online tax software or even hire a tax professional.
Also, you may want to skip using a mobile tax app if you have multiple state tax returns to file. Some apps, such as Cash App Taxes, won’t allow you to file multiple state returns.
Do You Need a Mobile Tax App?
Not everyone needs a mobile tax app, but it may be a good choice if you:
- Have limited access to a secure computer and usually use a smartphone or tablet
- Need to scan or upload tax-related documents via your phone
- Prefer the convenience of doing your taxes in the comfort of your home or office, at any time of day or night, rather than visiting a busy tax office during business hours
Pros and Cons of Filing Taxes Using a Mobile App
Filing your taxes using a mobile app has many advantages. For starters, you can download it to your phone or tablet and use it on the go. It allows you to directly upload tax documents from your phone or import from other sources to complete your tax filing quickly.
The best apps allow you to easily navigate through the filing process to submit your tax return fast.
Most importantly, the cost of a tax app is a fraction of what you may pay for a full online tax service or using a tax professional.
However, tax apps also come with disadvantages. Unlike preparing your taxes on a computer, using a tax app may provide limited form options or customer support. Also, some tax apps, such as Cash App Taxes, won’t allow you to file multiple state tax returns.
How To Choose the Best Tax App
Choosing the app that works best for your tax situation is essential. Here are several aspects to consider:
- Understand the tax app’s price and features. For example, you may want to forgo using a certain tax app if you have complicated taxes. That’s because many tax apps are limited in the forms and schedules they support.
- Consider tax apps that allow you to start your tax return for free. This way, you can get an idea of how to navigate the app and whether you feel comfortable with it before you have to pay for it.
- Choose a tax app with a simple interface for smooth navigation. If you are a novice or have little knowledge about taxes, opt for the app that gives you what you need without too much complexity. It’s wise to confirm that the app has such helpful features as easy importing of financial data, step-by-step tax guidance, reliable customer support and a variety of tax forms.
- Do your research before signing up for a tax app. Security is key, so determine if the app provides extra security measures to protect your data. Look through customer reviews to confirm that users find the app to be secure. The app should use strong encryption and authentication methods to help protect your personal and financial information.
Pro Tip
Choosing quality tax software can help you save time and money when filing your taxes. Take the time to find the best tax software that works for you.
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Methodology
We looked at the apps offered by six popular online tax software providers: Cash App Taxes, TurboTax, TaxSlayer, H&R Block, TaxAct Express and Liberty Tax. We narrowed our list to four finalists whose apps provide the best options and functionality.
Members of our research team then analyzed the four and scored each option in the following categories: free filing options, customer service options, price, interface, reliability and ease of use. The scores were used for our final ranking.
While tax apps offer a quick and easy way to file, if you have a more complicated tax return, such as a partnership or corporate tax return, you may want to consider hiring a certified public accountant (CPA).
To learn more about how Forbes Advisor rates tax products, and our editorial process, check out our Taxes Rating & Review Methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an app to file my taxes?
Tax apps are quick and typically easy to use. Usually, you can use them to file your taxes. However, consider hiring a tax professional or seeking online tax software to prepare your tax return if you have a complicated one.
What apps can I use to file my taxes for free?
Most tax apps charge a fee to file your taxes. However, some tax apps do allow you to file for free. At the time of publication, CashApp offers a free tax app people can use to file.
What happens after you file with a tax app?
As with online or desktop tax preparation software, after you file your taxes with a tax app, you can expect that the IRS and state revenue department will process your tax return. You can also request direct deposit for your tax refund.
