import QuickAnswer from ’../../components/QuickAnswer.astro’; import KeyTakeaways from ’../../components/KeyTakeaways.astro’; import FAQ from ’../../components/FAQ.astro’;

The best tax software for self-employed depends on complexity and budget. FreeTaxUSA offers the best value (free federal + Schedule C), TurboTax Self-Employed is most comprehensive ($119+), and H&R Block Self-Employed offers a good middle ground ($85+). For simple situations, IRS Free File works too.

<KeyTakeaways items={[ “FreeTaxUSA: Best value ($0 federal, $15 state)”, “TurboTax Self-Employed: Most comprehensive ($119+ federal)”, “H&R Block Self-Employed: Good middle ground ($85+ federal)”, “IRS Free File: Free if income under $64,000”, “Consider CPA for complex situations ($200-500+)” ]} />

Tax Software Comparison

Software	Federal Price	State Price	Schedule C	Best For
FreeTaxUSA	$0	$15	✅	Value seekers
TurboTax SE	$119	$59	✅	Maximum guidance
H&R Block SE	$85	$45	✅	Balance of cost/features
TaxAct SE	$65	$45	✅	Budget-conscious
Cash App Taxes	$0	$0	✅	Completely free

Detailed Reviews

FreeTaxUSA

Pros:

• ✅ Free federal filing including Schedule C
• ✅ Low-cost state filing ($15)
• ✅ All forms included
• ✅ Audit assistance available

Cons:

• ❌ Less guidance than premium software
• ❌ Basic interface

Best For: Budget-conscious self-employed with simple situations

TurboTax Self-Employed

Pros:

• ✅ Maximum guidance and explanations
• ✅ Expense tracking with QuickBooks integration
• ✅ Live CPA assistance available
• ✅ Audit support included

Cons:

• ❌ Expensive ($119+ federal)
• ❌ Aggressive upselling
• ❌ State filing extra ($59)

Best For: Complex situations, those wanting maximum guidance

H&R Block Self-Employed

Pros:

• ✅ Good balance of guidance and price
• ✅ In-person support option
• ✅ Clean interface
• ✅ Import from competitors

Cons:

• ❌ Still pricey for simple returns
• ❌ State filing extra ($45)

Best For: Those wanting middle ground

When to Use a CPA Instead

Consider hiring a CPA if:

• Business structure is complex (S Corp, partnership)
• Multiple state filings required
• Significant tax planning needed
• Previous IRS issues
• Income over $200,000
• Complex deductions

Typical CPA cost: $200-500+ for self-employed return

Related Guides

• Self-Employment Tax Calculator - Estimate before filing
• Schedule C Deductions Checklist - Gather expenses

<FAQ questions={[ { question: “Is free tax software good enough for self-employed?”, answer: “For simple self-employment situations (one Schedule C, straightforward expenses), yes. FreeTaxUSA and Cash App Taxes handle Schedule C well. For complex situations (multiple businesses, S Corp), consider paid software or a CPA.” }, { question: “Can I deduct tax preparation fees?”, answer: “As a self-employed individual, you can deduct tax preparation fees attributable to your business on Schedule C. Personal tax preparation fees are not deductible after 2017 tax reform.” }, { question: “What’s the difference between tax software and a CPA?”, answer: “Tax software helps you file but doesn’t provide strategic advice or represent you in audits (unless you pay extra). A CPA can provide year-round tax planning, handle complex situations, and represent you before the IRS.” } ]} />