- Best Tax Preparation Software For Tax Pros
- Best Tax Preparation Software For Small Business
- Best Tax Preparation Online
2017 RANKING & REVIEWS
TOP RANKING BEST TAX SOFTWARE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
TOP RANKING BEST TAX SOFTWARE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
Intro: How to Find the Best Tax Software for Small Businesses
The personal touch of H&R Block’s customer service makes it a no-brainer for any business owners out there. It’s the best tax software for small business, hands down. Best Professional Tax Software for Experienced Tax Filers: TurboTax. Overall, TurboTax still remains the best tax software for. Today's tax preparation software does more than just let you calculate your income tax and send in your return. Most tax software programs include tax planning features so you can analyze different income tax scenarios.
Taxes are unavoidable, whether you’re filing as an individual or as a business. Filing your taxes as a business can be even more complex and challenging than filing your personal returns, and making even a minor mistake can mean an audit, or worse.
There are special considerations small businesses must bear in mind when doing their taxes, ranging from how to handle employees to knowing which changes and updates will impact the new filing year.
- The April 15 deadline for filing income tax returns draws perilously close, forcing Mac users to gather up their W-2s, 1099s, and tax-preparation program of choice.
- Best Tax preparation software for Mac 2018: Free and Pro Series #1: H&R Block H&R Block is the perfect platform for tax preparation if you want to save money on the return.
You are here Home > Tools & Tips > Quicken Tips > Best Personal Finance Software for Mac. Best Personal Finance Software for Mac. Date: June 30, 2017. Direct export capability to tax preparation software; Was this article helpful? Help us improve our support center. Why Quicken Is the Best Way to Keep Track of Your Money. Best Tax preparation software for Mac 2018: Free and Pro Series #1: H&R Block H&R Block is the perfect platform for tax preparation if you want to save money on the return.
Luckily, business owners have the advantage of being able to choose from an extensive range of business tax preparation software solutions.
It’s important to know which small business tax software is best for you, and the process of sifting through so many options can certainly be intimidating.
To make the process easier, we have conducted extensive research into the best tax software for small businesses to help you identify the best business tax software.
Thanks to the professional tax software options listed in our review, you no longer have to pay an expensive professional to complete your taxes, nor do you have to worry that you’ve done something wrong or missed a crucial detail in dealing with the IRS.
Award Emblem: Top 5 Best Small Business Tax Software
AdvisoryHQ’s List of the Top 5 Best Small Business Tax Software
List is sorted alphabetically (click any of the software names below to go directly to the detailed review section for that professional tax software):
Top 5 Best Small Business Tax Software | Brief Comparison & Ranking
Best Small Business Tax Software | Highlighted Features |
E-file.com | Pay up to 64% less than competing small business tax software |
eSmart | Access to a wide range of intuitive features |
H&R Block | File up to 5 free federal returns |
TaxAct | Price Lock Guarantee on all products |
TurboTax | User-friendly, step-by-step process |
Table: Top 5 Best Buiness Tax Software | Above list is sorted alphabetically
What to Look for in Small Business Tax Software
When selecting the best tax software for your small business, you can often choose between desktop versions and options that let you file business taxes online.
The choice really depends on your preferences, as well as the features you’re looking at and your budget.
Some of the characteristics you might consider in your search for the best small business tax software solution include:
Comprehensiveness
Your tax platform must be able to handle all aspects of preparing and filing your business taxes. It should include everything you might need or want to keep the process streamlined, simplified, and manageable.
Look for a professional tax software that will allow you to file all applicable returns, including federal, state, and local taxes.
Image Source: Best Tax Software for Small Business
Automatic Updates
This is an advantage of programs that file business taxes online—automatic updates ensure you’re up-to-date on all current tax laws and regulations that could potentially impact you, so you don’t miss anything in a constantly changing environment.
Simplified Start-Up & Installation
As a business owner, you don’t have a great deal of spare time to dedicate to launching a new tax software or online platform.
That’s why it’s important to look for an option that’s either easy to install or to integrate within your existing technology and business structure.
The business tax software you select should ideally take no more than a few hours to have fully up and running. Online options are going to be much faster to get started compared to desktop software.
Ease of Use
Along with being easy to get started, the ideal tax software for small business is also one that’s easy to use, with a simple interface.
A variety of employees may use your tax software; regardless of technical expertise, they should feel comfortable using it.
Additional Features
A few other features worth looking for in your small business tax software include:
- The ability to upload W-2s and 1099s directly into the system
- Schedule C options
- A simple way to opt out of those tax situations not applicable to your business
- Options for importing data from other personal finance software you utilize
- Customizable features
- The option to file an unlimited number of returns
Choosing a professional tax software option can be incredibly valuable for your business and your financial peace of mind.
We put together a list of our top five picks for the best tax software for small business. These selections have many of the features we cited above and are all excellent choices for any business or industry.
We’ll highlight these top picks, as well as some of their many standout features, to serve as a guide for you during the process of choosing the best small business tax software.
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Detailed Review – Top Ranking Best Small Business Tax Software
Below, please find a detailed review of each business tax software on our list of best tax software for small businesses. We have highlighted some of the factors that allowed these small business tax software to score so high in our selection ranking.
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E-file.com Review
E-file.com is an online platform based in Fairfax, Virginia, allowing users to file federal income and state taxes.
This small business tax software makes it easy to file taxes online with not only accurate representation and information, but also intuitive tax deduction tools.
Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This Software as One of the Top Small Business Tax Software
Below, please find a detailed review of the key factors that allowed E-file to be ranked as a best professional tax software for small business owners.
Simple Process
The process to file business taxes online is relatively straightforward with E-file.com. All you do is start your return, which is completed by following simple-to-understand tax questions.
You can also import your previous years’ data if you’re a returning E-file user, and all the right forms are filled for you.
This tax software for small business filers will do all the calculations for you, and you can prepare and file state tax returns simultaneously with your federal returns. If you need to leave your return and come back, E-file will save your progress.
Once you’ve completed your return, you will have the advantage of an automatic error and accuracy check. Then, you can either file your return directly to the IRS or print it and mail it off.
Features
Some of the many features available from this straightforward business tax software solution include:
- There are no income restrictions
- Every filing status is supported
- You can calculate capital gains distributions
- Claim tax credits and deductions
- It’s easy to report self-employment and small business income
- You have the option to pay the company fee later if you choose to have it deducted from your refund
Available Forms & Schedules
Some of the forms/schedules available when you use E-file include:
- Form 1040: This is the standard individual income tax return.
- Schedule C: This is required if you’re reporting profits or losses from a sole proprietorship.
- Schedule D: This is used for Capital Gains and Losses.
- Schedule K-1: This is the form representing a shareholder’s share of income, deductions, and credit.
- Schedule SE: This is the self-employment tax.
- Forms 4797: This is where you record sales of business property.
- Form 8846: This is for Employer SS and Medicare taxes paid on certain employees.
Again, this is hardly an exhaustive list of the available forms, but we included it to give you an idea of the capabilities and options available with this tax software for small business.
Automatic Selection
Best Tax Preparation Software For Tax Pros
E-file will choose the right tax form for you after you select a package—Free Basic, Deluxe, and Premium.
You can then be automatically upgraded or downgraded based on the answers you provide. This ensures that you’re always paying the lowest possible price for the tax preparation solution you need, without any sales gimmicks or upsell attempts.
Final Considerations
E-file is a basic way to file your business taxes online, and while it may not offer all the features of other small business tax software options, it does have many advantages, like the ability to automatically select the correct form.
E-file is also a significantly less expensive alternative to options such as H&R Block and TurboTax, though its service might be best for those who are self-employed, rather than those who run a small business.
If you don’t qualify for the free basic services available from E-file, you will still pay up to 64% less compared to other small business tax software preparation options, making this an appealing platform for anyone seeking something that’s budget-friendly and tailored to their unique business needs.
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eSmart Tax Review
Created by well-known tax preparation company Liberty Tax, eSmart Tax guarantees to deliver fully accurate online tax filing on both federal and state returns.
Some of the general features of e-Smart include a Credit Maximizer, which is an automatic check for hundreds of credits and deductions, as well as electronic W-2 import to reduce the likelihood of errors.
This professional tax software also includes audit assistance and the Smart Bundle, which lets you protect all of your important documents in a streamlined, organized way.
Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This Software as One of the Top Small Business Tax Software
Below, please find a detailed review of the key factors that allowed eSmart Tax to be ranked as a best professional tax software for small business owners.
Live Customer Support
Filing taxes can be a confusing process, and e-Smart looks to make every step as painless and straightforward as possible.
Part of their commitment to simple, hassle-free filing stems from their live customer support. This service is free to use, and is available through every step of the way.
E-Smart also includes importing assistance for those who are using e-Smart for the first time. It’s a great way to keep competition high and customer frustration low, making e-Smart one of the best small business tax software products.
Access to Intuitive Features
Aside from free customer support, customers who use e-Smart to file business taxes online will have access to a wide range of intuitive features, including:
- State tax preparation
- Tax return amendments
- ACA forms
- Itemized deductions
- Self-employment income
- Sole proprietor income
- Depreciation
- Business expenses
- Home office deductions
- Gains, profits and loss, and S-corporation
- Enhanced audit assistance
E-Smart Tax Premium
If you’re exploring the eSmart products specifically designed as tax software for business, you’ll likely opt for the Premium small business tax software.
Premium is the best choice for small-business owners, and it’s strengthened by the inclusion of Professional Tax Advice.
With eSmart Premium, you’ll be able to access Affordable Care Act Forms, including those required if you need an Exemption or Hardship. Other features unique to this professional tax software product include:
- Earned Income Credit features
- Credit maximizers
- Health Savings Accounts forms
- Schedule B income reporting from interest and investments
- Schedule C income deductions
- The ability to report common self-employment and business expenses
- Simplified reporting on Form 8829—Asset Depreciation
- Easy Schedule D filing which includes gains, profits and loss, and S-Corporation
You can also use the Premium edition of e-Smart to file state taxes for as little as $31.95.
Additional Features
In addition to the offerings available in this professional tax software, some of the distinctive elements of e-Smart are the extensive tax resources that can help you develop a better understanding your finances.
eSmart offers in-depth guides on the basics of taxes, as well as guides to the Affordable Care Act law, including the forms, credits, and exemptions you’ll need to understand and utilize.
You can also use the website to find information on not just federal taxes but also state filing information and deadlines, and there is a range of helpful calculators available on the website.
Final Considerations
We like eSmart for quite a few reasons, including the free chat support for all customers, which makes it convenient to seek help while you file your business taxes online.
As long as you feel like you’re up to the challenge of filing your own business tax returns, this is a low-cost option.
It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive versions of business tax software, but it is still great for its simplicity and the fact that it’s relatively budget-friendly.
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H&R Block Review
H&R Block is well-known in the world of tax preparatio. In fact, they are considered the world’s largest tax services provider, with approximately 12,000 H&R Block branches located around the world.
Many people turn to this company for in-person filing assistance, but you can also rely on this trusted name to file business taxes online, as well as using a desktop software solution offered by the company.
All of these products include a maximum refund guarantee, as well as a 100% accuracy guarantee. If your return isn’t entirely accurate, the company will reimburse you for the IRS penalties you paid as a result.
H&R Block also offers complimentary in-person support if you are subjected to an audit after using one of their products, including small business tax software.
Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This Software as One of the Top Small Business Tax Software
Below, please find a detailed review of the key factors that allowed H&R Block to be ranked as a best professional tax software for small business owners.
Simple Process
H&R Block will guide you through how to prepare and file your business returns, and this includes a variety of entities, such as S-Corporations, partnerships, LLCs, and non-profits.
Users have the ability to e-file up to five free federal returns and unlimited returns when choosing this business tax software to file business taxes online.
H&R Block Premium and Business
H&R Block Premium and Business is the go-to choice in terms of tax software for small business.
Features of this small business tax preparation software include:
- Access to free unlimited Business State Program downloads
- Make the most of the potential tax benefits, including business expenses
- Convenient tools within this small business tax software allow you to create yearly payroll forms for the IRS and employees, including W-2s and 1099s
Additional Features
As well as the primary features cited above, we selected this as one of the best small business tax software products because of other additional features, like:
- Stringent data security
- Step-by-step security through every detail of filing your business taxes
- The inclusion of forms related to the Affordable Care Act
- Free, unlimited advice from experts
- Accuracy review double-checks
Premium Software
As well as H&R Block’s Premium and Business product, some business owners may opt for the simpler Premium product to file business taxes online.
This small business tax software is ideal for self-employed professionals, but isn’t applicable to Corporate, S-Corporation, partnership and LLC, estate and trust, and non-profit tax returns.
This product also doesn’t offer the ability to create payroll and employer forms, and it isn’t designed to maximize vehicle tax deductions or depreciations for business expenses.
Final Considerations
H&R Block offers quite a few features and a sense of versatility that’s appealing to users, but it doesn’t offer as many comprehensive options as some of the other options on this list, which is something to keep in mind when making a purchase.
For example, it’s not the ideal tax software for small business if you need to file a 1065. The primary thing is to make sure the H&R Block product you choose has the specific capabilities you need for your business before purchasing.
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TaxACT Review
TaxACT is known for being simple to use and affordable yet powerful. It’s ideal for businesses of any size and structure, much like TurboTax.
This tax software for business was founded in 1998, and strives to make “unfair advantages” accessible to all users, regardless of the simplicity or complexity of your return.
TaxACT offers a full suite of online, downloadable, and mobile options that make it easier for you to file your taxes on your own, and each product provides step-by-step instructions, as well as a personalized process.
General features of TaxACT include a dedication to accuracy, money-back guarantees on desktop products, and maximum refund assurances.
Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This Software as One of the Top Small Business Tax Software
Below, please find a detailed review of the key factors that allowed TaxACT to be ranked as a best professional tax software for small business owners.
Four Different Software Versions
The professional tax software comes in four different small business tax software options.
Each business tax software version includes the relevant forms for that particular business classification. These include:
- Sole Proprietor: Form 1040 & Schedule C
- Partnership–LLC: Form 1065
- C Corporation: Form 1120
- S Corporation: Form 1120S
Small Business Tax Solutions
Many of the business tax software options from TaxACT include the following features and offerings:
- Prepare and print an unlimited number of returns
- Step-by-step guidance to maximize business deductions
- Small business software free options available from TaxACT include free IRS e-filing for the fastest possible processing
- Save time and reduce the likelihood of errors by importing data from your previous years’ TaxACT Return
- Schedule K-1 items will be automatically allocated and imported into your 1040 TaxACT return
- Import Trial Balance Reports in CSV format and easily make edits that get automatically added
Additional Features
This tax preparation business software product, whether online or in desktop version, is packed with features.
In addition to the primary functions listed above, TaxACT also includes the following:
- TaxACT works to ease the complexity of capital gains
- Review your assets and take advantage of depreciation reports for the most in deductions
- Book income can be reconciled, making it much easier to complete Schedule M-1
- TaxACT Alerts make sure all information is correct, forms are error-free, and that all possible savings opportunities are met
- Multiple copies of forms can be added directly into TaxACT
- Compare data from current and previous years quickly and easily
Price Lock Guarantee
The TaxACT Price Lock Guarantee is something that’s particularly unique about this tax software for business.
The Price Lock Guarantee says that if you create and file your return using any of the available online products, you’ll pay the price it was listed at when you started your return.
Final Considerations
Along with TurboTax, TaxACT is seen as one of the most comprehensive, in-depth, and easy-to-use professional tax software products.
It pairs ease-of-use and rich features with plenty of customer support when needed, as well as quite a few additional resources that guide you through the process and educate you on how to most efficiently and effectively file your business taxes online.
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TurboTax Review
TurboTax by Intuit is perhaps one of the more well-known tax preparation options for both commercial and personal needs.
TurboTax provides a simple-to-follow, step-by-step approach to completing tax returns and filing, even for people who have very little tax knowledge. It’s this simple way of doing things that make it a favorite product for so many people.
With this small business software, free options include e-filing. At no cost, you can file your federal and state tax return with direct deposit, ensuring the fastest possible refund. This is included with TurboTax Online.
TurboTax is available as a downloadable or installable software for both Windows and Mac devices.
Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This Software as One of the Top Small Business Tax Software
Below, please find a detailed review of the key factors that allowed TurboTax to be ranked as a best professional tax software for small business owners.
Simple Process
One of the reasons why TurboTax is such a popular small business tax software is its inherently simple process.
You’re asked step-by-step questions about your finances, and TurboTax then makes calculations, which are guaranteed to be 100% accurate.
The program is always completely up-to-date with the latest laws, including healthcare, which can be particularly pertinent in a business setting.
General Features
TurboTax’s intuitive tax software for small business owners allows users to automatically import W-2 tax information directly into your return from financial institutions.
The business tax software also double-checks all returns periodically throughout the process, constantly looking for deductions and credits. In fact, thousands of errors are automatically checked for before filing to help users ensure accuracy and avoid triggering an audit.
Uniquely, TurboTax offers a satisfaction guarantee, which says you’ll get your maximum refund, no matter what.
TurboTax Business
TurboTax Business is designed for use by S Corps, C Corps, partnerships, estates, trusts, and multi-member LLCs.
Features of this particular TurboTax business tax software product include:
- Covers reporting both income and expenses for the types of businesses listed above.
- Ability to maximize industry-specific tax deductions.
- Guidance and support on S Corp, partnership, C Corp, and multi-member LLC or trust tax forms.
Using this small business tax software lets you import the previous years’ TurboTax returns to save time. You can also gain a year-over-year comparison for your business.
Import profit and loss statements automatically and directly from QuickBooks, and TurboTax will even organize them into the appropriate categories.
TurboTax will walk you through each of your deductible business expenses and find you the right deductions so that you pay only what you actually owe.
Business-Specific Tax Assistance
Using this professional tax software to file business taxes online is not only simple, but it is also comprehensive. Small business owners can benefit from the following business-specific tax assistance:
- Guidance on commonly overlooked write-offs and deductions pertinent to your industry
- Help identifying the best tax-saving strategies for assets and reporting depreciations on large purchases
- Customer Support Agents provide one-on-one technical assistance
- New businesses have options for determining startup tax deductions for maximized refunds
- The Audit Risk Meter will check your tax return for common audit triggers, showing whether you’re at a high or low risk
- Automatically distribute K-1 forms in PDF format
- Create as many W-2, 1099-MISC, 1099-INT, and 1099-DIV as you need for your employees, shareholders, contractors, and partners
- File income tax returns for multiple businesses, regardless of entity
Final Considerations
TurboTax is a gold standard in the world of small business tax software. Although it may be a more expensive option, this tax software for small business and personal taxes consistently receives glowing reviews from its users.
Users say that along with being easy to use, it’s also incredibly comprehensive and packed with any and all features you could want in a tax software for business.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Small Business Tax Software
When you do the required research to select the best tax software for your small business, you’re doing yourself a tremendous favor.
You’ll have a tool on your side not just to ensure your returns are filed correctly, but that you’re paying the least possible amount of taxes and taking all of the available deductions.
It’s our hope that our top picks will help you move ahead in your search for the best tax preparation business software, armed with vital information and a useful sense of comparison.
AdvisoryHQ (AHQ) Disclaimer:
Reasonable efforts have been made by AdvisoryHQ to present accurate information, however all info is presented without warranty. Review AdvisoryHQ’s Terms for details. Also review each firm’s site for the most updated data, rates and info.
Note: Firms and products, including the one(s) reviewed above, may be AdvisoryHQ's affiliates. Click to view AdvisoryHQ's advertiser disclosures.
Tax season tends to sneak-up very quickly after the holidays so we’ve looked at the very best tax software for Mac & PC to help maximize your refund in 2019.
If you already manage money on your Mac with some of these excellent personal finance tools or use investment optimization apps like the excellent free Personal Capital, tax preparation is easier.
If you don’t though, a tax filing app makes things a lot easier to meet the April 17th deadline so we’ve covered everything here from small business tax software for Mac and PC users to solutions for S-Corp filing.
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Note that all the programs featured here are for filing taxes in the USA and Canada only and all are compatible with the latest versions of macOS including High Sierra and Mojave.
Here then are the top 5 tax software for Mac and PC in order of ranking.
1. TaxSlayer (Up To $1000 Refund Advance)
TaxSlayer is an easy to use, no nonsense tax filing software that offers some of the most competitive prices on the market.
TaxSlayer also offers a $1000 refund advance within 24 hours of filing your tax return. To receive this, you must also apply for a TaxSlayer prepaid Visa card and the $1000 will be deposited on the card pending certain conditions. The $1000 loan amount will then be automatically deducted from any federal tax refund issued by the IRS.
TaxSlayer promises to maximize your return and has a simple pricing model depending on your needs. If you’re just filing a simple tax return, TaxSlayer is completely free including for both federal and state taxes or Form 1040 EZ.
TaxSlayer has an extremely clean and easy to use interface which doesn’t feel bloated or overwhelming like a lot of tax filing apps do.
TaxSlayer also has a simple pricing structure that’s easy to understand. TaxSlayer Simply Free for anyone filing a form 1040EZ; Classic for all major Federal forms and fast W-2 imports; Premium for VIP Support and tax help and Self Employed for Contractors, Freelancers and 1099s.
Note that the Classic version of TaxSlayer doesn’t deduct simple things such as charity donations, rental properties, sale of home etc although the Premium version can deduct some of these. It also has a special version for military personnel tax returns.
If you want a quick and easy way to file taxes on your Mac, TaxSlayer is about as cheap and easy as it gets.
You can start filing for free with TaxSlayer straight away and to ensure the security of your logins, it will verify your account via SMS to your mobile.
2. H&R Block (35% Off & Up To $3000 Advance Refund)
Along with TurboTax (see review below), H&R Block or “Block” as it’s more commonly known, is probably the most widely used tax software out there.
The most unique feature of H&R Block is that it has over 12,000 physical offices around the US where you can actually talk face-to-face with a tax specialist if you’re having problems.
Anyone that has spent hours on the phone to for any kind of software support will vouch for how much stress and hassle this can potentially save.
HR Block is therefore ideal for small business owners that may have slightly more complex tax returns, especially because you can see someone face-to-face to have a look over your finances in one of their offices.
Another plus is that H&R Block offers an advance refund of up to $3000 if you consult one of it’s tax advisors. You have to apply for a H&R Block Emerald Prepaid Mastercard but the advance refund can be on the card within 24 hours pending certain conditions.
Note that the amount granted is simply a loan based on the size of your refund that H&R Block calculates.
The most basic version of HR Block costs still contains all IRS forms unlike TurboTax that has now removed many tax forms from its equivalent basic version.
You can file Federal taxes for free however with H&R Block online Free Edition which provides everything, including free tax advice at no extra cost like all H&R Block products. Another useful feature is that if you’ve already got data stored in TurboTax, you can import it into HR Block.
There are 4 version of HR Block available – Basic, Deluxe, Premium and Premium & Business. All of these are available either as an online version (which is slightly cheaper) or as a desktop download.
All versions advise you where can make deductions to help maximize your refund and offer tax advice over the phone from a professional.
The differences between each one follow a similar model to TurboTax but with slight differences.
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The Basic version is for those with simple tax returns. It can import your W2, 1099 and previous year’s tax return from TurboTax. It will also do Schedule A itemized deductions and includes Refund Reveal – a useful tool which explains and shows exactly how much you can expect to get back.
The Deluxe version is necessary for homeowners and investors to complete e-filing. It includes all the features of Basic plus guidance on home and mortgage interests and help with investments and dividends.
The Premium version includes all of the Deluxe but also supports all Schedule C returns for small business owners and schedule E returns for rental property income.
The Premium is the complete business tax preparation software for small business owners but also includes corporate, partnership and LLC returns. It can also generate payroll and employer forms. However, Premium & Business is not available for Mac – it’s Windows only.
This HR Block comparison table perhaps gives a more detailed overview of the precise difference between each version:
The H&R Block range of products is clearly very similar to TurboTax. There are however some advantages of H&R Block vs TurboTax that apply to all versions:
- Refund Guarantee: If you’re able to get a higher refund with another tax software, H&R Block will refund you the difference
- 100% Accuracy Guarantee: H&R Block will refund you for any penalties imposed by the IRS as a result of inaccuracies
- Audit Protection: H&R Block will take care of administration of any audits caused as a result of filing with it’s software. Note that this is not a protection against being audited by the IRS.
- Secure Connections: H&R Block uses several layers of security protection when it comes to filing online.
- W2 Finder: Like TurboTax, you can also file online using your iOS device such as iPhone or iPad and take pictures of W2 forms. H&R Block however can even look-up your W2 form for you.
In terms of price, the Mac desktop versions of H&R Block are marginally cheaper than TurboTax although the respective versions aren’t exactly the same.
Some features are included for free in H&R Block compared to TurboTax (and compared to other online tax software such as TaxAct which we’ll look at shortly) as you can see from this comparison table:
H&R Block Summary
H&R Block has gained much ground on TurboTax in recent years. The differences between TurboTax and H&R Block are increasingly minor but H&R Block offers the big bonus of face-to-face customer support in a physical office at no extra cost.
It also promises to refund you in case of any mistakes that can be proved were caused by the software and H&R Block will even handle any audits requested by the IRS as a result of using the software. TurboTax has slightly more attractive form wizards and interface touches but H&R Block still looks good and does the job very efficiently indeed.
If you want the peace of mind of being able to see someone in person if there’s a problem with your taxes, or want to switch and import data from TurboTax, you can’t do any better than H&R Block.
3. TurboTax
Intuit’s TurboTax still remains the most widely used tax filing software out there although it has faced stiff competition from H&R Block in recent years.
TurboTax is made by Intuit which originally created the much maligned Quicken for Mac.
The lack of features in Quicken for Mac compared to the Windows version meant many Mac users ditched Quicken in favor of better alternatives but fortunately, TurboTax is the same on Mac as it is on Windows.
However, TurboTax is still a very easy to use and comprehensive tax software that has over 350 tax deductions which double checks your tax returns and guarantees 100% accuracy in calculations.
TurboTax Versions Compared
There are four different versions of TurboTax: Federal Free, Deluxe, Premier and Self Employed.
In 2019, TurboTax has also introduced TurboTaxLive. This gives you the option of having a real CPA and EA review your tax return but this generally adds an extra $20 onto the cost of each package. You can also talk to them but this is done online via screen sharing whereas H&R Block has physical offices around the country you can go into.
Here we take a closer look at the different versions of TurboTax.
TurboTax Federal Free Edition
You can file for free with TurboTax if all you need is to make simple 1040EZ/1040A tax returns. This version allows you to prepare and e-file both federal and state taxes.
Although federal filing is free, some states require a fee for filing.
To get TurboTax Federal for free, you must simply subtract the fee from your federal tax refund and have the balance of your refund deposited directly to your bank account – you don’t need a credit card either.
TurboTax Deluxe Edition
The Deluxe Edition of TurboTax is the most popular version and includes all the features in the Federal Free Edition with the inclusion of access to basic deduction identification tools and improved support.
Deluxe claims to maximize your tax deductions by identifying more areas where there are industry or occupation specific deduction opportunities.
There are also enhanced tools for things like inheritances, donations and audit risk protection.
However in 2016 Intuit removed Schedule C and D tax returns from the Deluxe Version and packaged it into the Self Employed Edition (then called “Home & Business Edition”). This means that the Deluxe version is no longer suitable as an LLC tax software anymore.
TurboTax Premier Edition
TurboTax Premier Edition gives you full access to all features of the software with deduction assistance that includes support for rental properties and other business-specific tax deductions. It also has advanced calculators and additional investment resources for those with stocks, shares, funds and other assets.
TurboTax Self Employed Edition
This is now the most expensive version of TurboTax and essential for small business owners and professional tax software for Schedule B and C tax returns which used to be part of the lower priced Deluxe version.
Although these features used to be part of TurboTax Deluxe, the Self Employed edition is a lot cheaper than hiring an accountant and if your returns are fairly straightforward, it’s still worth the investment if you’re going to use it regularly.
To get a better idea of the difference between each version, check out the TurboTax comparison chart.
Using TurboTax
While TurboTax is generally very easy to use and holds your hand closely during the process of entering your data, TurboTax can be very fussy sometimes about entering data.
For example, even entering something as simple as a social security number requires endless steps walk-throughs which can make the process very frustrating. In general though, the layout and format of TurboTax is well done and there are easy to follow deduction tools.
TurboTax makes it very clear how to fill in your returns and there are some nifty little features such as “W-2 Snap & Autofill” which allows you to take a picture of your W2 on your Mac or iOS device and upload it.
There’s also a feature called “SmartLook” which automatically connects you to one of Intuit’s tax specialists if you have a tax doubt or question. This is bolstered with an “ExplainWhy” feature which helps explain certain fields and requirements in your tax return.
For personal income tax returns, TurboTax has an easy to use and comprehensive Federal Free Edition that includes 1040EZ, 1040A, and 1040 forms including live chat support.
Since there are so many users of TurboTax on both Mac and Windows, the TurboTax AnswerXchange Site is very extensive with a thriving user base. Chances are, if you encounter a problem with TurboTax, someone else has probably had the same problem and the answer will be in AnswerXchange
There are other useful features of TurboTax to give you peace of mind too. Accuracy Protection means that if TurboTax calculates your taxes incorrectly, Intuit will pay any fees or money owed to the IRS.
It also offers three levels of audit protection – Audit Risk Meter, Audit Support Guarantee and Audit Defense. The Risk Meter appears while you are filling out forms to show you if there are any potential problems with your form.
The Audit Support Guarantee provides guidance from a tax professional if the IRS contacts you and finally Audit Defense is an optional service that provides full audit representation by a licensed tax professional (although unlike with H&R Block, this comes at an extra cost to the software itself). A
Audit Defense means that Intuit provides full tax specialist and legal support if you are audited as a result of a tax return completed with TurboTax.
There’s also something called MAX which is an enhancement to Audit Defense and includes things such as Tax Identity Restoration and quicker response times from Intuit.
TurboTax Summary
TurboTax is still the most widely used tax software out there although it has lost ground in recent years to H&R Block, partly due to its pricing policy and removal of features from cheaper versions and putting them in more expensive versions.
TurboTax also requires you to pay more for features that come with the price of the software in H&R Block such as Audit Defense and MAX.
Note that there used to be a free TurboTax desktop app from the Mac App Store but this is no longer available.
The negative press surrounding incidences of TurboTax fraud in 2015 has no doubt also damaged confidence in the product although in an effort to reassure customers, TurboTax has focused on significantly improving security.
Overall though, TurboTax is easier than ever to use and if you don’t need the peace of mind of being able to speak to someone face to face about your tax filings, TurboTax is still a good choice.
Until 28th February 2019 you can also get $20 off any purchase of TurboTax.
Note that if you’re based in Canada, you need to use the Canadian version of TurboTax (currently 15% off).
4. TaxAct ($100 Gift Card Bonus)
TaxAct is probably the most popular online alternative to both TurboTax and H&R Block. It does not have a Mac app but it offers a very competitive online service that Mac users can use.
TaxAct also offers a $100 gift card bonus for selected retailers if you’re willing to put part of your refund into gift cards.
TaxAct definitely has a look and feel that’s clearly inspired by TurboTax and H&R Block but is considerably cheaper with the most expensive Premier+ version costing $34.95.
However, be aware that most online tax filing services such as TaxAct are very aggressive on the upsell encouraging you to upgrade from the free version and even lock-in prices for next years tax returns.
The pricing model for TaxAct is slightly simpler than TurboTax and H&R Block. There are 3 versions of TaxAct – Free, Basic, Deluxe+ and Premier+ all of which are cheaper than the equivalents of the big two.
TaxAct is also the only tax filing service that allows Mac users to file S-Corp taxes online via its TaxAct Online 2018 Business 1120S service although this costs $59.95. On Windows this is also available as a desktop app but Mac users can only use the online version.
TaxAct claims that it offers significant savings on both TurboTax and H&R Block as it provides several features for free or cheaper than either of the big two (prices are subject to change):
On the surface it looks like a pretty good deal with the same features as H&R Block and TurboTax. However the reality is that using it is another thing altogether.
For instance, TaxAct claims that the Basic and Deluxe+ versions can import investments, 1099s forms, Schedule K-1s and PDFs but this often doesn’t work very well if at all.
The number of financial institutions you can import from is also very limited, with even major banks such as Morgan Stanley not supported. Windows users have also found that if do purchase the desktop version, you can’t export all the data you’ve filled in online to the desktop app (although this isn’t an issue for Mac users as there is no Mac desktop app).
TaxAct does provide a useful summary of deductions you can make although TurboTax and H&R Block are better at identifying deductions to maximize your refunds.
TaxAct does the job but it’s not all as plain sailing as it should be.
You can definitely save some up front cash buying TaxAct but in the long run, you’ll probably get more back in tax returns from TurboTax or H&R Block.
5. OnePriceTaxes
OnePriceTaxes used to have a Mac app known as E-file Cloud but is now completely online. It’s a little known online tax software that’s a surprisingly good, albeit basic alternative to TurboTax and H&R Block.
OnePriceTaxes.com was developed by a small team of computer programmers who were tired of the bait-and-switch, multi-tiered, tax filing sites.
The result is an easy to use and affordable tax filing platform that provides a refreshing alternative to the big two of TurboTax and HR Block.
OnePriceTaxes takes around 30 minutes to file all your taxes. You can complete simple or complex returns and include your state return too.
OnePriceTaxes is refreshing because there are no confusing add-ons or hidden fees for specific types of taxes. It allows you to see what your tax refund will be before choosing whether you want to file Federal and State taxes online.
After signing-up for a free account, you can start entering your personal information and tax data.
The best thing about OnePriceTaxes is that it’s incredibly easy to fill in. Since there are none of the fancy features or setup wizards found in TurboTax and H&R Block, it’s very straightforward to fill in and use.
Once you’ve entered essential information such as your name, address and social security number, you simply have to fill in information about any dependents you have, review your return with the estimated refund and then file online.
OnePriceTaxes includes most return forms including small business Schedule C, Rental Property Schedule E and various 1099 forms. It does allow you to enter deductions but unlike TurboTax and H&R Block, it won’t help you maximize your returns or identify areas where you could be deducting more.
If you’re not worried about maximizing your returns and know what you’re doing when it comes to deductions and which forms you need, OnePriceTaxes is a refreshingly simple and cheap tax software that anyone can use.
Mac Tax Software: What You Need To Know
The three most important aspects to any tax software is that it does things accurately, simply and maximizes your return by the tax filing deadline of April 18th. The sort of information most people will need to enter into tax software are typically:
- W-2 Income
- College Tuition Expenses
- Interest and Dividend Income
- Mortgage Interest
- Other Income and Expenses
It’s therefore important to make sure that you have all of the information at your fingertips that you need to enter into your tax software before you get started. Important documents and information to make sure you have include:
- W-2 and 1099: One handy feature of both TurboTax and H&R Block is that they both allow you to take a photo of these documents and import them into the software.
- Student loan interest form including tuition fees (1098-E)
- Mortgage and Property interest (Form 1098)
- Contributions to IRAs or retirement funds
- Any medical bills greater than 10% of your income
- Receipts for business expenses and other deductibles
- Charitable donation receipts
If you’ve got these handy, it will make life easier whichever tax software you choose on your Mac ensuring that entering data is easy, transparent and structured so that you don’t end-up wondering if there’s something missing or if you’ve forgotten something.
Aside from being prepared with the right documentation however, there are also a few other essential things to consider before deciding whether you should use tax software on your Mac.
Watch Out For Different Versions Of Tax Software
Most tax software is available in different versions depending on the type you need. These range from free software for Federal tax returns to more expensive small business tax software.
It’s very important to purchase the right version to ensure that it supports the kind of taxes you need to file so you don’t get any nasty surprises afterwards.
To make matters more complicated, with each tax season vendors such as TurboTax and H&R Block frequently change both the pricing and which versions support which type of tax returns.
Watch out for tax software that claims to be “free” because they often don’t take into account state filing fees although the free version of TaxSlayer is free for State filing too.
Does Your State Or Region Support Electronic Tax Filing?
One of the obvious advantages of tax software is that you can file taxes electronically but some states or regions do not accept e-filing of taxes or returns completed on certain tax software.
You should always check with either the software vendor or Department Of Revenue in your state whether the software you are purchasing supports electronic filing to avoid nasty surprises at the end of the process.
Some States issue a list of software that they officially accept electronic filed returns from such as Minnesota which accepts H&R Block but doesn’t accept TurboTax for example.
Other states such as Florida, Nevada, Washington, Texas and several more have had at some stage or continue to have, a policy against e-filing. Particularly after the TurboTax fraud scandal in 2015, it’s possible that less States will support e-filing with TurboTax so make sure you check before buying.
Which Credits, Refunds And Deductions Are Supported?
If you’ve made a big purchase (such as a hybrid or electric car) and are expecting a nice big refund for it, double-check that the tax software supports those kind of returns.
Tax software vendors usually keep software updated annually regarding tax laws and what’s refundable or not but they’re not always bang on the ball so check with the developer first if you’ve made a major purchase.
Important credits and deductions worth looking at in any tax software include:
- Charity Donations
- Itemized Deductions
- Business Owner Deductions
- Depreciation Summaries
- Rental Property Deductions
Finally, it’s also worth checking what payment methods the tax software accepts tax refunds such as check, bank transfer, prepaid debit card, credit card, savings bonds etc as some only support specific refund types.
Accuracy And Audit Protection Guarantees
Check whether the software offers any guarantees regarding accuracy and audit protection.
Both TurboTax and HR Block offer guarantees for both which gives you some support or financial compensation if you’re informed by by the IRS that there’s a problem with your return.
Along with deduction maximization and general support, this is one of the major differences between paid tax software and free or online tax software.
For instance, TurboTax’s Audit Defense feature means that in the case of an audit, an Intuit tax professional will take care of administrating an audit so that you can concentrate on other things.
TurboTax also offers an accuracy guarantee that in case of any inaccuracies, it will pay any of your IRS penalties. H&R Block offers a very similar accuracy guarantee and free in person Audit Support which allows you to actually go to an H&R Block office and talk to someone face to face.
Note however that neither TurboTax not H&R Block provide guarantees that you won’t be audited – they simply provide comprehensive backup and mediation if you are.
Best Tax Preparation Software For Small Business
Customer Support
If things go wrong when filing your taxes, it can be extremely stressful. It’s therefore a good idea to check opinions as to whether the software offers good customer support.
H&R Block for example is excellent in this respect because you can go into one of its local offices and talk to a tax software professional about your problem.
Intuit’s TurboTax support meanwhile is limited to phone support although you can live connect to fax professionals directly from TurboTax if you have any problems.
However, if you’ve ever had to use Intuit’s Quicken live chat support, you’ll know that this can be a very frustrating experience.
Don’t underestimate how valuable after sales support can be when it comes to the complexities of tax returns.
Support For iPads and iPhones
If you want to use the tax software alongside your iOS device, both TurboTax and H&R Block have iOS apps which allow you to file tax returns direct from your iOS device or at least help you fill in your tax return by taking a photo of your W2.
Both TurboTax for iPad and H&R Block for iPad now allow you to file from your iOS device and take photos of your W2.
You can also file directly from your smartphone if you want although with mobiles generally less secure than Macs, it’s less advisable.
Business Tax Software & S-Corp Taxes
Unfortunately there is no desktop software that supports small business and S-Corp tax filing on Mac.
The desktop business editions of H&R Block and TurboTax are only available for Windows.
However, the online version of TaxAct Online 2018 Business 1120S Service allows Mac users to file S-Corp taxes online.
Tax Advisors vs Tax Software
No tax software can replace a professional tax adviser or accountant for complex returns. If your taxes are complicated, we strongly recommend hiring a professional rather than going it on you’re own using software.
It can be extremely stressful if you run into problems or uncertainty with tax software and for the time and stress it takes to sort out, you may even find a professional tax consultant works out cheaper and considerably less stressful in the long run.
We can recommend The Tax Team as a good starting point if you need professional advice on your tax affairs.
Online vs Desktop Software
We prefer desktop tax filing software to online solutions because a single desktop purchase allows you to file multiple returns whereas online, you have to pay per tax return you file.
However, online solutions often offer better pricing, easier to use interfaces and there’s no download or software incompatibility issues.
It’s also worth noting that if you feel like you don’t need any help from tax software to file your tax returns, you can file online for free with the IRS Free File service.
Depending on your financial situation and region, you may also be able to get free state tax preparation assistance as well.
Conclusion
If you really want to try and squeeze every last cent out of your tax return, TaxSlayer makes things really simple.
Best mouse for mac 2017. If you’re a fan of Intuit products such as Quicken, then you’ll probably be familiar with the TurboTax way of doing things.
If you’ve had nothing but bad experiences with Quicken or would like the peace of mind of knowing you can visit a tax professional in person, you’ll probably find H&R Block is best for you.
We like H&R Block most for the personal touch of being able to actually physically meet one of their tax consultants if needed. However, TurboTax now offer a similar service with TurboTaxLive although this only allows you to meet with a CPA online.
Best Tax Preparation Online
If you want specialist advice on your fiscal situation without using any of the apps featured here, we can also recommend The Tax Team.
If you have any questions, problems or suggestions regarding the software featured here, let us know in the comments below.
For more on running a small business on Macs, check out our guide to the top CRM solutions for Mac users.