Editor's Note: We research and compare tax software independently. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Home Reviews Buying Guides Tools Categories Tax Software How We Research About
2026 Tax Software Research - Updated August 15

Tax Software Reviews
& Buying Guides

Find the right tax filing software for your situation. We research and compare TurboTax editions, free filing options, and alternatives to help you maximize your refund without overpaying.

✓ Independently Researched 💰 No Brand Sponsorships ⚡ Updated for Tax Year 2025 💳 Amazon Associate
Disclosure: Digital & Gear is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We research products independently and may earn a commission if you buy through our links - at no extra cost to you.
🧾

Which TurboTax Edition Should You Buy?

Answer 5 quick questions about your income, deductions, and investments. We'll match you with the right TurboTax edition in under 60 seconds.

Start the Free Quiz →

100% Free - No email required - Instant results

TurboTax Editions Compared

Four main editions cover most tax situations. Here's a quick overview to help you choose.

💰

TurboTax Free Edition

$0 Federal + State

Simple W-2 returns with standard deduction. Best for students, first-time filers, and anyone with a straightforward tax situation.

  • ✓ W-2 income only
  • ✓ Standard deduction
  • ✓ Free federal + state filing
Best for Simple Returns
MOST POPULAR
📄

TurboTax Deluxe 2025

For Homeowners

Itemized deductions for mortgage interest, charitable donations, and medical expenses. Maximizes your refund with deduction search.

  • ✓ Schedule A itemized deductions
  • ✓ Mortgage interest & property tax
  • ✓ Charitable donations
  • ✓ Medical expense deductions
Read Full Review →
📈

TurboTax Premier 2025

For Investors

Stocks, bonds, crypto, and rental property income. Step-by-step guidance for Schedule D and Schedule E.

  • ✓ Stock & bond sales (Schedule D)
  • ✓ Cryptocurrency gains/losses
  • ✓ Rental property (Schedule E)
  • ✓ All Deluxe features included
Best for Investors
💼

TurboTax Self-Employed 2025

For Freelancers

Schedule C for contractors, freelancers, and small business owners. Finds industry-specific deductions.

  • ✓ Schedule C business income
  • ✓ Home office deduction
  • ✓ Vehicle & mileage tracking
  • ✓ All Premier features included
Best for Freelancers

Tax Software Articles

In-depth reviews, comparisons, and buying guides for tax filing software.

Tax Software

TurboTax Deluxe 2025 Review: Worth It for Homeowners?

Complete review of TurboTax Deluxe 2025. We analyze features, pricing, deduction search, and whether it's worth upgrading from Free Edition.

Coming Soon

2026 Best Tax Software: Free & Paid Options Compared

Side-by-side comparison of TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, and free filing options for tax year 2025.

Coming Soon

TurboTax Free vs Deluxe: Which Should You Use?

When the Free Edition is enough and when it's worth paying for Deluxe. A decision guide based on your tax situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about choosing tax software.

What is the best tax software for 2026? →

The best tax software depends on your situation. TurboTax Free Edition is best for simple W-2 returns, Deluxe for homeowners who itemize, Premier for investors with stocks or crypto, and Self-Employed for freelancers and contractors. Use our free TurboTax Finder tool to get a personalized recommendation in under 60 seconds.

Is TurboTax Deluxe worth buying? →

TurboTax Deluxe is worth buying if you itemize deductions, own a home with a mortgage, or have significant charitable donations or medical expenses. It walks you through Schedule A deductions and searches for hundreds of tax breaks you might miss with the Free Edition. Read our full TurboTax Deluxe review for details.

Can I file taxes for free? →

Yes. TurboTax Free Edition handles simple W-2 returns with standard deduction at no cost for both federal and state filing. If your situation is more complex (mortgage, investments, self-employment), you will need a paid tier. The IRS also offers Free File for taxpayers with AGI below certain thresholds.

What's the difference between TurboTax Deluxe and Premier? →

Deluxe covers itemized deductions (Schedule A) for homeowners and donors. Premier adds investment income support: stock and bond sales (Schedule D), cryptocurrency transactions, and rental property income (Schedule E). If you sold investments this year, you need Premier. If you only have mortgage interest and donations, Deluxe is sufficient.

Affiliate Disclosure

Digital & Gear is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We independently research each product and recommendations are based on our analysis. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change.

🧾 Finder Read Review