TurboTax
Intuit
Filers who want the most hand-holding
A guided, plain-English interview and the widest import options make it the easiest way to file, even for complex returns.
For educational purposes only — not financial advice. Learn about our editorial process
Recommended
Intuit
Filers who want the most hand-holding
A guided, plain-English interview and the widest import options make it the easiest way to file, even for complex returns.
H&R Block
Filers who may want in-person backup
Pairs capable DIY software with a nationwide network of physical offices, so you can hand off or get help in person if you get stuck.
TaxAct
Cost-conscious filers wanting a balance of price and features
Covers self-employed returns at a lower premium price than the big names, making it a sensible middle ground on cost and features.
Common questions
All 50 states
Select your state for a dedicated page with local tax brackets, deductions, tips, and a pre-configured calculator.
For educational purposes only -- not financial or tax advice. Tax rates shown are based on 2026 data and may not reflect recent changes. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
Federal, state, Social Security + Medicare (FICA), and pre-tax deductions. Pick a state and filing status, and we work out what actually lands in your account.
Hold state + salary + deductions constant and only flip the filing status. The difference in take-home pay is often larger than people expect.
Federal tax uses 2026 progressive brackets. FICA — the Social Security + Medicare payroll tax — is 6.2% Social Security (up to $176,100) + 1.45% Medicare + 0.9% extra on wages over $200k. State varies from 0% (9 states) to graduated.
net = gross − fedTax − stateTax − fica − preTax − extraWithholdingIn plain words: take-home = gross pay − federal tax − state tax − Social Security & Medicare (FICA) − money set aside before tax − extra withholding. Pre-tax deductions reduce the federal + state + FICA base (except the 0.9% extra Medicare, which is always on full wages). Extra withholding on W-4 line 4c is subtracted from each paycheck directly.