Stay-at-home parents can simplify tax filing with user-friendly software tailored to their unique needs. This article evaluates top options like TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxSlayer, and Cash App Taxes, focusing on affordability, ease of use, and support for credits like the Child Tax Credit. It highlights free filing options and expert assistance to maximize refunds.
Top Tax Software Options for Stay-at-Home Parents
Stay-at-home parents often juggle complex financial situations, from managing household expenses to claiming tax credits for dependents. Choosing the right tax software can streamline the process, maximize refunds, and reduce stress. With the 2025 tax season approaching, the IRS has adjusted standard deductions to $15,000 for single filers, $30,000 for married couples filing jointly, and $22,500 for heads of household, reflecting inflation adjustments. The Child Tax Credit (CTC) has also been expanded to $2,200 per qualifying child, providing significant relief for parents. Here’s a breakdown of the best tax software for stay-at-home parents, focusing on affordability, ease of use, and support for family-related tax benefits.
TurboTax: Best for Ease of Use
TurboTax remains a top choice for its intuitive, interview-style interface that guides users through tax filing with simple questions. Its Free Edition supports basic Form 1040 returns, covering wages, limited interest, and credits like the CTC and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which is ideal for stay-at-home parents with straightforward returns. Approximately 37% of filers qualify for this free tier. The Deluxe version, priced around $60, is suited for parents who itemize deductions, such as charitable contributions or medical expenses, which may apply to families with high healthcare costs. TurboTax’s Live Assisted plan offers unlimited expert support, while the Full Service option lets a tax professional handle everything for a higher fee, starting at $89. Its AI chatbot, Intuit Assist, provides quick answers to basic questions, and the software scans for over 350 deductions to maximize refunds. However, TurboTax’s frequent upsells can be a drawback for budget-conscious users.
H&R Block: Best for Expert Support
H&R Block excels in providing robust support, making it ideal for stay-at-home parents needing guidance. Its Free Online tier covers simple returns, including CTC and student loan interest deductions, with no income restrictions. The Deluxe tier, around $35 plus $40 per state return, supports itemized deductions and is suitable for parents with HSAs or homeownership expenses. H&R Block’s Premium and Self-Employed tiers cater to those with freelance income, which may apply to parents earning side income from gig work. Unlimited screen-sharing and chat with tax pros are included in paid plans, though a final return review costs extra. The AI Tax Assist tool enhances user experience, and in-person support at H&R Block locations offers flexibility. Its $100,000 Accuracy Guarantee ensures peace of mind.
TaxSlayer: Best for Affordability
TaxSlayer is a budget-friendly option, with its Simply Free tier offering free federal and state filing for simple returns, though it caps taxable income at $100,000 and excludes dependents. The Classic tier, around $30 plus $48 per state, handles all tax situations, including CTC and EITC, making it suitable for most stay-at-home parents. The Self-Employed plan, priced at $73, supports parents with side gigs, offering access to tax pros with expertise in Schedule C filings. TaxSlayer’s interface is less polished than TurboTax or H&R Block, but its affordability and comprehensive coverage make it a strong contender for cost-conscious families.
Cash App Taxes: Best Free Option
Cash App Taxes is entirely free for federal and state returns, supporting simple returns and multiple 1099s, which benefits parents with freelance income. It lacks paid tiers, limiting support to basic phone and email, but its simplicity suits tech-savvy parents with uncomplicated taxes. Direct deposit via a Cash App account can expedite refunds by up to six days. However, it doesn’t support itemized deductions, so parents with complex expenses may need to look elsewhere.
IRS Free File and Direct File
For parents with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $84,000 or less, the IRS Free File program offers free tax software through providers like TaxSlayer. The IRS Direct File program, expanded in 2025 to 25 states, supports CTC, EITC, and Child and Dependent Care Credit but requires taking the standard deduction. It’s a no-cost option for eligible parents but doesn’t cover state returns or complex situations like itemizing.
Key Considerations for Stay-at-Home Parents
Stay-at-home parents should prioritize software that supports family-specific credits like the CTC, EITC, and Child and Dependent Care Credit, which can significantly reduce tax liability. For example, a new parent in the 25% tax bracket could see a $75 monthly increase in take-home pay by leveraging these credits. Filing as head of household, if eligible, offers a higher standard deduction and better tax brackets. Software with import features, like TurboTax’s ability to pull W-2s or 1099s, saves time. Parents with side income from freelancing or blogging should opt for plans supporting Schedule C, such as TaxSlayer’s Self-Employed tier or H&R Block’s Premium. Always verify state filing costs, as some free plans charge extra (e.g., TaxAct’s $40 per state). E-filing with direct deposit ensures refunds within 21 days, compared to eight weeks for paper returns.
Choosing the Right Software
For stay-at-home parents with simple returns, Cash App Taxes or IRS Free File offers cost-free solutions. Those needing step-by-step guidance should consider TurboTax’s Deluxe or H&R Block’s Deluxe for their user-friendly interfaces and expert support. Budget-conscious parents can rely on TaxSlayer’s Classic tier for comprehensive coverage at a lower price. Always check for IRS Free File eligibility to save on costs, and ensure the software supports all relevant credits and deductions to maximize your refund.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or tax advice. Consult a tax professional for personalized guidance. Information is sourced from reputable financial websites, IRS guidelines, and expert reviews.
