Can I File My Own Taxes or Should I Hire Someone?

If your tax situation is simple — a W-2 job, standard deduction, no investments or business income — tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or FreeTaxUSA can handle your return easily and inexpensively. You should consider hiring a CPA or enrolled agent if you're self-employed, own rental property, have significant investments, went through a divorce, received stock options, or have foreign income or accounts. The cost of professional preparation is often offset by deductions or credits they identify that you might have missed. The IRS's Free File program offers free software for taxpayers with income under $79,000. A tax professional also provides audit support and ongoing advice that software cannot.