How Much Does Tax Preparation Cost?
A simple individual return from a paid preparer generally runs about $185 to $280 for the federal return, with state returns and extra schedules added on top. At PMD Financial, an individual return is $200 including one state return, and a self-employed return is $449.
What preparers charge nationally
The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) 2025 Fee Study is the most recent nationwide survey of preparer fees. For a base Form 1040 with Schedules 1 through 3, it reported these averages:
| Preparer | Average base 1040 |
|---|---|
| Non-credentialed preparer | about $185 |
| Enrolled agent | $228 |
| CPA | $280 |
Those figures cover the federal return only. Most offices charge separately for each state return and each added schedule.
What makes a 1040 cost more
- Itemizing (Schedule A): mortgage interest, property tax, charitable gifts, medical expenses.
- Self-employment (Schedule C): 1099 or business income, expenses, home office, vehicle use.
- Investment sales (Schedule D and Form 8949): stock, fund and crypto sales.
- Rentals (Schedule E): each property needs income, expenses and depreciation.
- K-1s: income from partnerships, S corporations or trusts.
- More than one state: moving during the year or earning income in another state.
PMD Financial pricing
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Individual return, federal + one state | $200 |
| Self-employed return (one Schedule C), federal + one state | $449 |
| Itemized deductions | +$99 |
| Investment sales | +$99 |
| K-1, each | +$99 |
| Rental property, each | +$150 |
| Additional business, each | +$150 |
| Additional state | +$75 |
New clients get $25 off their first return, and you get $25 off for each person you refer who files. See the full pricing page.
Red flags when choosing a preparer
- A fee based on a percentage of your refund.
- A preparer who won't sign the return or doesn't have a PTIN.
- A refund promised before anyone has seen your documents.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to have a simple tax return done?
National averages for a base federal 1040 run about $185 for a non-credentialed preparer, $228 for an enrolled agent and $280 for a CPA, with state returns usually extra. PMD Financial charges $200 including one state return.
Why do most tax preparers not list prices?
Many prefer to quote after seeing your documents because the price depends on which forms you need. PMD Financial lists a base price and every common add-on so you can work out your cost in advance.
Is a self-employed tax return more expensive?
Yes. A Schedule C adds business income and expenses, self-employment tax and often home office or vehicle calculations. PMD Financial's self-employed return is $449 including one state.
Get in touch or call 949-423-8885.