# Where to Get Your Taxes Done: Three Practical Options
Tax season arrives every year, and most filers face the same question: handle taxes yourself or pay someone else to do it? The choice depends on your situation's complexity and your comfort level with forms.
Your three main options break down by cost, convenience, and accuracy.
**DIY Tax Software**
Self-filing software like TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct costs $60 to $200 depending on return complexity. This works best for straightforward situations. Single income earners, standard deductions, and simple investment income fit this category. Software guides you step-by-step and catches common errors. The tradeoff: you shoulder responsibility if mistakes occur, though reputable programs offer audit support.
**Tax Prep Chains**
Companies like Jackson Hewitt, Liberty Tax, and H&R Block offer in-person help starting around $200 and climbing to $400+ for complex returns. Franchises employ preparers (not always CPAs or enrolled agents) who handle filing while you watch. Speed varies widely. Many locations open January through April 15, creating bottlenecks mid-season.
**CPAs and Enrolled Agents**
Certified public accountants and IRS-enrolled agents typically charge $300 to $1,500+ annually, based on return complexity and time spent. You get professional expertise, not a script. A CPA reviews deductions you might miss, handles business income properly, and offers year-round tax planning. An enrolled agent (EA) provides similar credentials at sometimes lower rates. Both can represent you before the IRS if audited.
**Which Fits You?**
Choose software if your W-2 income is your only substantial money source and you feel confident navigating tax forms. Use a tax prep chain for simple returns