Choosing a tax filing app isn’t just about downloading the first one you see on the Play Store. It’s about matching the features of the app to your specific financial profile, comfort level, and the complexity of your return. Here’s a smart decision framework to help you choose confidently.
Step 1: What Type of Tax Filer Are You?
| Filer Type | Description | What You Need |
| First-time ITR Filer | New to tax filing, usually salaried | Step-by-step guidance, Form 16 upload, expert chat support |
| Salaried Individual | Regular income, may have deductions (80C, HRA, 80D, etc.) | Auto-Filled ITR from Form 16, deduction suggestions |
| Freelancer or Consultant | Irregular income, multiple sources | Section 44ADA support, income categorization, audit thresholds |
| Stock/Crypto Investor | Income from capital gains, trading | Broker sync, tax report for gains/losses, Schedule CG support |
| Small Business Owner | Proprietorship or GST-registered business | Business income ITRs, GST sync, depreciation and P&L tools |
| NRI/High Net Worth Individual | Foreign income, DTAA claims, multi-property | Expert-led filing, foreign income disclosures, Form 67 support |
Step 2: Must-Have Features Checklist
Before you install or pay for any app, ensure it ticks these boxes:
- Upload Form 16 for quick filing
- Handles all ITR forms (ITR-1 to ITR-4)
- Offers expert assistance if needed
- Has deduction tracking (80C, 80D, 80CCD)
- Provides post-filing support (scrutiny/audit notices)
- Includes secure login and data encryption
- Offers both web and app access
Pro Tip: If you’re salaried and short on time, go for apps that provide both automation and a human review layer—like TaxBuddy
Step 3: Ask These Key Questions
Use these questions to filter your shortlist:
Q1: Do you want to file 100% by yourself or get CA help?
If unsure, choose hybrid apps like TaxBuddy or Tax2win.
Q2: Do you have just salary income or other types too (interest, rent, capital gains)?
Go for apps that support multiple income heads like Quicko, TaxBuddy, and myITreturn.
Q3: Do you often invest in ELSS, LIC, PF, or NPS?
Choose apps that provide deduction prompts like TaxBuddy and ClearTax.
Q4: Are you worried about accuracy or receiving notices?
Prefer apps with free audit support like TaxBuddy.
Q5: Want to file ITR in less than 10 minutes?
Use apps with auto Form 16 upload and smart pre-fill like TaxBuddy and ClearTax.
Feature Comparison Matrix
| App Name | Form 16 Upload | Expert Help | Deduction Guide | Mobile App | Post-Filing Support | Ideal For |
| TaxBuddy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Salaried, Freelancers, Beginners |
| ClearTax | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | DIY Filers |
| myITreturn | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Limited | Beginners |
| Quicko | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | Investors, Traders |
| Tax2win | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | CA-supported Filers |
Apps Based on Goals
| Goal | Suggested App(s) |
| File ITR fast using Form 16 | TaxBuddy, ClearTax |
| Claim all eligible deductions | TaxBuddy, myITreturn |
| Get expert guidance for tax saving | TaxBuddy, Tax2win |
| Handle multiple income sources | Quicko, TaxBuddy |
| Avoid audit issues post-filing | TaxBuddy |
| File directly from your phone | TaxBuddy App, ClearTax App |
Final Recommendation: Choose TaxBuddy if…
- You are a salaried individual or freelancer looking for a reliable and easy filing solution
- You want AI-powered deduction tracking with human verification
- You prefer a mix of DIY and expert support
- You need support after filing (notices, rectification, audit help)