No shade, but TurboTax sucks. The famed tax filing platform costs at least $89 for simple returns — and up to $219 for more complicated returns. But with a little added effort and time, you might be able to spare the expense with cheaper self-file platforms, which are ideal for filers with simple W-2 returns.

• Platforms like Cash App Taxes or GetYourRefund boast free tax filings for simple returns, including document upload and other features.
• For more complex filing situations, FreeTaxUSA charges just $15 for state returns, while platforms like TaxSlayer and TaxAct offer hands-on filing for less than competitors.

Plus, don’t forget IRS filing: Last year, the Internal Revenue Service rolled out its new Direct File program in 12 states, offering 19M taxpayers an option to file basic W-2 returns. And this year, for simple filers, it’s back — but in 24 states this time. When evaluating how to file, it might be worth considering the IRS Direct File, especially if you have a simple return and don’t need much help.