Last updated: November 13, 2026
TurboTax Business and H&R Block are the top tools for small business income tax returns in 2027, with TaxAct as the lower-cost option. For sales tax, Avalara leads for multi-state sellers, TaxJar for ecommerce and Anrok for SaaS companies.
Small businesses face two separate tax jobs: an annual return and ongoing sales tax collection. This guide covers both. It is general information, not tax advice, so confirm your situation with a qualified professional.
Small Business Tax Software To Use In 2027
| Software | Best For | Core Strength | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| TurboTax Business | Partnerships and corporations | Guided interview with expert options | Income tax filing |
| H&R Block | Owners who want a backup | Software plus in-person professionals | Income tax filing |
| TaxAct | Price-conscious filers | Lower-cost business editions | Income tax filing |
| TaxSlayer Self-Employed | Freelancers and sole proprietors | Affordable Schedule C support | Income tax filing |
| Avalara | Multi-state and global sellers | Calculation, returns and exemptions | Sales tax automation |
| TaxJar | Online stores | Nexus tracking and marketplace syncs | Sales tax automation |
| Anrok | SaaS companies | Sales tax and VAT inside billing | Sales tax automation |
| Numeral | Startups wanting hands-off filing | Registrations and returns handled | Managed sales tax |
How We Scored
We scored software on supported entities and forms, guidance, access to professionals, e-filing, price, and for sales tax tools, calculation, registration, filing and integrations.
The Top Small Business Tax Software
1. TurboTax Business
TurboTax Business guides owners through partnership, S corp and C corp returns and can import from QuickBooks.
Expert review options add help when needed.
Best for: Partnerships and corporations. Core strength: Guided interview with expert options.
2. H&R Block
H&R Block pairs business tax software with a large network of tax professionals.
Owners can start alone and get help if things get complicated.
Best for: Owners who want a backup. Core strength: Software plus in-person professionals.
3. TaxAct
TaxAct offers partnership and corporate editions at lower prices with e-filing and imports.
It suits owners comfortable with less guidance.
Best for: Price-conscious filers. Core strength: Lower-cost business editions.
4. TaxSlayer Self-Employed
TaxSlayer handles Schedule C income and deductions for one-person businesses.
Access to tax help is included.
Best for: Freelancers and sole proprietors. Core strength: Affordable Schedule C support.
5. Avalara
Avalara automates sales tax calculation, filing, registration and exemption certificates across many jurisdictions.
It integrates with ERPs and ecommerce platforms.
Best for: Multi-state and global sellers. Core strength: Calculation, returns and exemptions.
6. TaxJar
TaxJar, part of Stripe, tracks economic nexus and files returns for ecommerce sellers.
It connects with Shopify and Amazon.
Best for: Online stores. Core strength: Nexus tracking and marketplace syncs.
7. Anrok
Anrok tells software companies where they owe tax and applies it in Stripe or Chargebee.
It covers US sales tax and international VAT.
Best for: SaaS companies. Core strength: Sales tax and VAT inside billing.
8. Numeral
Numeral monitors nexus, registers you in new states and files returns.
It takes sales tax off the founder’s plate.
Best for: Startups wanting hands-off filing. Core strength: Registrations and returns handled.
Know When To Call A Professional
Software handles straightforward returns well. Multi-state income, entity changes, large equity events or audits are moments to bring in a CPA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tax software for a small business?
TurboTax Business is best for guided returns, H&R Block for in-person backup and TaxAct for lower cost.
Do I need sales tax software?
If you sell taxable goods or software in several states, automation saves time and reduces risk.
Is this tax advice?
No. It is general information; speak with a qualified professional about your situation.
Conclusion
Use TurboTax Business or H&R Block for returns and Avalara, TaxJar or Anrok for sales tax. Pair them with clean books and professional review when needed.
