Not tax advice. Information here is general guidance. Tax laws change. Verify with the IRS or a licensed CPA for your specific situation.
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Best Tax Software for Simple Returns (2026)

W-2, standard deduction, no kids = the cheapest path

Simple returns (single W-2, no kids, standard deduction) should never cost money. These 3 are 100% free for these returns.

1. Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax) — our pick

$0.00/year first year · renews $0.00/year · Web + Mobile devices · Score 4/5

Cash App Taxes is genuinely free — federal AND state. Best for simple-to-moderate returns. Requires a Cash App account. Limitations on multi-state returns and rare forms. Best for users already in the Cash App ecosystem.

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2. IRS Free File / Direct File

$0.00/year first year · renews $0.00/year · Web devices · Score 5/5

IRS Free File and Direct File are the cheapest option for eligible filers. If your AGI is under $79K, you should use this before any paid software. Direct File (the IRS's own product) is expanding state-by-state and is even cleaner than Free File partners.

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