According to the IRS, the average tax return in 2020 is $ 1,915. To ensure the highest possible refund, it is important to check all the tax deductions and credits available to you. Online and mobile tax applications make it easy.
In addition to checking credits and deductions, other tax applications may even allow you to track costs and mileage. Each tax application takes approximately the same amount of time to go through the tax return process, although some applications may automatically fill out certain tax forms and provide live support. If you want a backup when you return, some applications also offer it.
We looked at 20 different tax applications to find the best options available. Features and costs are important factors in our rankings. We also look at ease of use and real customer reviews.
5 Best Tax Applications 2022
- Best Overall: TaxAct Express
- Best for Business Owners: QuickBooks Self-Employed
- Best for Live Support: H&R Block Tax Prep and File
- Best for Fast Filing: TurboTax Tax Return App
- Best for Ongoing Expense Tracking: YNAB
Compare Providers
| Tax App | Why We Chose It | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| TaxAct Express | Best Overall | Reasonable prices and a comprehensive free package |
| QuickBooks Self-Employed | Best for Business Owners | Track expenses and send invoices |
| H&R Block Tax Prep and File | Best for Live Support | Access tax pros 24/7 during the filing season |
| TurboTax Tax Return App | Best for Fast Filing | Auto-fill and import data using your phone, then receive a refund advance within three hours of IRS acceptance |
| YNAB | Best for Ongoing Expense Tracking | Track income and expenses by syncing or uploading transactions |
Which Tax Software Gets You The Biggest Refund?
Most tax software has a maximum refund guarantee, where your filing is free if your refund is higher using other software. However, to maximize your tax refund, take advantage of every possible deduction and tax credit offered by your software. Examples include the earned income credit (EIC), child tax credit, and home mortgage interest deduction (HMID).
What Happens After You File With a Tax App?
After filing your taxes using a tax app, the app electronically sends your return to the IRS. It takes the IRS anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days to match your personal information with the return. You can check the status of your return using the IRS Where’s My Refund? tool. Expect to receive your refund within 21 days provided there are no errors or issues. To receive your refund quicker, set up direct deposit. If you owe money, you have until the tax filing deadline to pay unless you file for an extension.
Do You Need a Mobile Tax App?
You do not need a mobile tax app to file your taxes. However, using a mobile app can help make filing your taxes easier. Many of these tax apps allow you to upload receipts and categorize expenses year-round, so the act of filing taxes doesn’t take as long during the tax season.
How Does a Mobile Tax App Work?
Some mobile tax apps help track your expenses, receipts, and mileage year-round, while most only offer the ability to file your taxes. Input or upload your W2 information, check for credits and deductions, and e-file your taxes right on your mobile phone.
How We Chose the Best Tax Apps
We looked at 20 of the best tax apps available and narrowed it down to the best six options based on several features and considerations. We considered features, costs, reviews, and ease of use. It was important to find providers that offered a free version for simple taxes but then could evolve with solutions for those who have more complex tax needs.
