Intuit TurboTax Business vs H&R Block Small Business: 11 Best Tax Software for Small Businesses 2026

Best for Filing for multiple business types

Intuit TurboTax Business (#1, 9.3/9.4). Top pick for its deep form support and excellent user guidance, especially for S-Corps and partnerships. It also handles Integrating with QuickBooks.

Best for DIY filing with optional in-person help

H&R Block Small Business (#2, 9.1/9.4). A strong TurboTax alternative with superior options for human tax professional support, both online and in-person. It also handles Finding all possible deductions.

Best for Low-cost federal tax filing

FreeTaxUSA (#4, 8.6/9.4). The undisputed price leader for freelancers and sole proprietors, with free federal filing for Schedule C. It also handles Simple business tax returns.

Best for Outsourcing bookkeeping and tax prep

Bench (#11, unrated wildcard). A tech-enabled service that handles all bookkeeping and tax filing, removing the need for DIY software. It also handles Getting year-round financial support.

How is business tax software different from personal tax software?

Business tax software is designed to handle specific business structures and their corresponding IRS forms, which personal software cannot. It supports forms like Schedule C for sole proprietors, Form 1120-S for S-Corps, and Form 1065 for partnerships, while also handling business-specific deductions, asset depreciation, and payroll taxes.

What's the most important feature for a freelancer?

The most critical feature for a freelancer is robust Schedule C support with strong expense tracking guidance. Software that helps identify and categorize common freelance deductions, like home office, mileage, and supplies, can save thousands. Direct import from apps like Uber or platforms like Etsy is also a major time-saver.

When should I upgrade from DIY software to an accountant?

You should consider hiring an accountant when your business experiences significant changes that DIY software struggles with. Key triggers include hiring your first employees, expanding to multiple states, seeking investment, undergoing an audit, or when your revenue grows to a point where complex tax planning could yield significant savings (typically over $250,000 in revenue).

How to choose

1. 1First, match the software's supported business entities (sole proprietor, S-Corp, etc.) to your own legal structure.
2. 2Second, evaluate its ability to import data from your accounting software (like QuickBooks or Xero) or bank to minimize manual data entry.
3. 3Third, compare the total cost, including the base price plus mandatory state filing fees and any add-on fees for expert help or audit defense.
4. 4Finally, read reviews specifically about the user interface and guidance, as clear, step-by-step instructions are critical for non-accountants.

What is the best tax software for a single-member LLC?

The best tax software for a single-member LLC is typically one with strong Schedule C support, as the IRS treats you as a sole proprietor by default. Intuit TurboTax Self-Employed or H&R Block Self-Employed are excellent choices because they provide specific guidance on deducting business expenses and calculating self-employment tax.

Can I file my personal and business taxes together with this software?

Yes, most small business tax software allows you to file both together, especially for pass-through entities like sole proprietorships, LLCs, and S-Corps. The software first calculates your business profit or loss, and that figure then 'passes through' to your personal 1040 tax return. This integration is a key benefit of using these programs.

Do I still need an accountant if I use tax software?

You may not need an accountant for routine annual filing if your business is simple, but it's wise to retain one for strategic advice. An accountant is invaluable for complex situations like multi-state operations, tax planning, or responding to an IRS inquiry. Many business owners use software for filing and an accountant for quarterly check-ins.

How much does small business tax software typically cost?

Small business tax software typically costs between $90 and $500 for a federal and one state return. Basic versions for freelancers are at the lower end of that range, while software for S-Corps and partnerships costs more, often between $170 and $250. Prices increase if you add live support from a tax expert.