In Illinois, most tax preparation projects cost between $50.00 and $500 per return, with a typical price near $200. Local labour, permits and materials move the final price, so treat the range below as a planning guide.
Typical tax preparation cost
$50.00 – $500
per return · typical $200
A general planning range, not a quotation.
Tax preparation cost breakdown
- Simple 1040$50.00 – $150typical $100
- Itemized with investments$150 – $350typical $250
- Self-employed or business$300 – $600typical $450
At a glance
- Typical range$50.00 – $500
- Unitper return
- Cities covered50
What Tax Preparation costs
Covers preparation and e-filing of federal and state returns. Simple 1040 forms cost less; itemized returns with investments or business income cost more. Includes basic tax advice and audit support from the preparer.
By city in Illinois
- Addison
- Alton
- Arlington Heights
- Belleville
- Berwyn
- Bolingbrook
- Buffalo Grove
- Calumet City
- Carbondale
- Carol Stream
- Carpentersville
- Champaign
- Chicago
- Cicero
- Crystal Lake
- DeKalb
- Decatur
- Des Plaines
- Downers Grove
- Elgin
- Elmhurst
- Evanston
- Glenview
- Hanover Park
- Hoffman Estates
- Joliet
- Kankakee
- Lombard
- Moline
- Mount Prospect
- Naperville
- Normal
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- Orland Park
- Palatine
- Park Ridge
- Peoria
- Rock Island
- Rockford
- Romeoville
- Round Lake Beach
- Schaumburg
- Skokie
- Springfield
- Streamwood
- Tinley Park
- Urbana
- Waukegan
- Wheaton
Frequently asked questions
What affects tax prep pricing?
Complexity of your return, your location, and the preparer's credentials. Business income, rental properties, and itemized deductions increase the fee.
Can I get cheap tax prep?
Yes, use IRS Free File if income under $73k, or volunteer programs. Also compare local CPAs vs. national chains. Online DIY is cheapest but less guidance.
Are there extra fees?
Often yes for state returns ($30-$100), amendments, or if you need an audit response. Always ask for a written quote before starting.