Tax return software makes filing easy, but knowing when to hire a professional is key

With the advent of self-filing software, the majority of people are able to file their own taxes without professional guidance, or the cost that goes along with it. But the key is understanding when to recruit extra help.

With the advent of self-filing software, however, the majority of people are able to file their own taxes without professional guidance, or the cost that goes along with it. But the key is understanding when to recruit extra help.

"There's a lot more simplification of the process with the online platforms," says Andrea Thompson, a certified financial planner and founder of Modern Cents. "You could do it in the comfort of your own home, whenever you want and you can limit your tax-filing costs."

Self-filing taxes is about a mindset shift, Thompson says.