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Mobile app options for free tax filing
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I do everything on my phone these days, so I'm looking for free tax software with mobile app that I can use from my smartphone. I don't have a computer at home, just my phone and a tablet.
I've tried a couple tax apps in the past, but they always seemed limited compared to the desktop versions. Some wouldn't let me file state returns for free, or they had really basic interfaces that made it hard to enter all my information.
What are the best free tax software options with good mobile apps? I need something that's easy to use on a small screen but still has all the features I need for my simple tax return.
Mobile tax filing has come a long way! Here are the best options for free tax software with mobile app:
1. Cash App Taxes - Their mobile app is actually really good. You can do everything from your phone, including taking pictures of your W2 to import data. Completely free for federal and state.
2. TurboTax - They have a free version through IRS Free File that has a mobile app, but be careful about upsells. Only free if you qualify and go through the IRS portal.
3. H&R Block - Similar to TurboTax, free through IRS Free File with a mobile app.
4. TaxSlayer - Has a mobile app for their free version through IRS Free File.
Cash App Taxes is probably your best bet since it's free regardless of income and the app is designed for mobile-first use. The others might try to push you to paid versions once you start using them.
One limitation with mobile apps: entering a lot of data can be tedious on a small screen. If you have a complex return, you might want to use a computer instead.
I filed my taxes entirely from my phone last year using Cash App Taxes. The experience was surprisingly good.
The app lets you:
- Take photos of your W2 and 1099 forms to auto-import data
- Navigate through the interview process easily
- Save and continue later
- File both federal and state for free
- Track your refund status
The interface is clean and designed for mobile. Buttons are big enough to tap easily, and the forms are simplified for small screens.
One tip: if you have a lot of deductions or complex situations, it might be easier to use their website on your tablet's browser. The mobile app is optimized for simplicity, which means some advanced features might be harder to access.
Also, make sure you have a stable internet connection when filing. You don't want to lose your progress halfway through.
I tried several mobile tax apps last year. Here's my ranking:
1. Cash App Taxes - Best overall for mobile, completely free, good interface
2. TurboTax Mobile (through IRS Free File) - Good features but watch for upsells
3. H&R Block Mobile (through IRS Free File) - Similar to TurboTax
4. FreeTaxUSA - Has a mobile site but not a dedicated app
Cash App Taxes is definitely the winner if you want a true mobile-first experience. Their app feels like it was designed for phones from the ground up.
The IRS Free File partners' apps are basically mobile versions of their desktop software. They work, but they can feel clunky on a small screen.
FreeTaxUSA doesn't have a dedicated app, but their website works okay on mobile browsers. It's not as polished as a native app though.
If you only have a phone, I'd go with Cash App Taxes. If you have a tablet too, you might have more options since browser-based software works better on larger screens.
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