Looking for a free or cheap online tax software to save a bit more money during the tax season? We’ve compiled a list of great software solutions that will provide you with the right level of support and features for all your tax needs!
There are many factors in deciding what the best tax software for you is. For example, if you have a simple tax return, you could find a more affordable and simple option. However, if you’re self-employed or have multiple sources of income, you might want to look for a software that can handle complex tax situations and provide you with maximum support and guidance. Check out our list below and lest us know your thoughts in the comments!
Where to File Taxes for Free
IRS Free File
Did your adjusted gross income fall below $73,000 in 2023? If so, you may be eligible for the IRS’s Free File service. The IRS collaborates with various tax software providers to offer free tax filing, including for self-employed individuals.
The Free File partners for this year include
- TaxAct
- TaxSlayer
- FreeTaxUSA
- OnLine Taxes
- FileYourTaxes
- ezTaxReturn.com
- 1040NOW Corp.
You can use the IRS’s tool to assess your eligibility and select the software best tailored to your needs. However, be cautious as some options may not provide free state tax returns, while others do. Although all options offer free federal returns, prioritizing those that also include free state returns is ideal. In terms of user experience, the first three services listed have been most reliable in our experience. However, the key is to ensure you obtain the free state tax return, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics in your tax software selection.
TurboTax
TurboTax has always been one of the easiest options for filing taxes from the comfort of your home. With TurboTax Free Edition, taxpayers can file simple federal and state tax returns at no cost. Known for its user-friendly interface, TurboTax offers comprehensive written guidance for users who may need assistance. It also facilitates easy uploading of W-2 and other tax forms, whether received digitally or photographed from paper copies.
While the free version of TurboTax is effective, it has limited features. Users requiring additional schedules with their 1040, beyond the Child Tax Credit, student loan interest deduction, and Earned Income Credit (EIC), will need to upgrade to the Deluxe version priced at $59. For those dealing with crypto, the next tier package at $89 is necessary.
H&R Block
Visit H&R Block’s online platform to file your taxes for free! Their free online tax filing service covers deductions for student tuition, payments, and loan interest. You can easily upload your documents by taking a photo or importing digital tax documents. H&R Block’s free version is especially appealing as it grants access to college-related tax credits, not limited to student loan deductions but also including the American Opportunity Credit for those currently paying tuition.
For live assistance through H&R Block’s online service, there is a fee involved, with packages starting at $60.
FreeTaxUSA
You can also try FreeTaxUSA.com to e-file your Federal return directly with the IRS. They offer Basic, Advanced, Premium, or Self-Employed filing programs for free, with the option to add a state return for just $14.99. FreeTaxUSA also provides Free File, granting a free state tax return regardless of your state of residence, which is a rare feature. However, eligibility rules are stricter, with an AGI limit of $73,000 for military families and $46,000 for others.
Although not as fancy as TurboTax or H&R Block, FreeTaxUSA’s user interface still offers detailed guidance, including explanations for various credits and deductions. Keep in mind that state returns with FreeTaxUSA require payment unless using Free File, with a relatively low cost of $14.99 per state return.
Credit Karma Tax (Formerly Cash App Taxes)
Credit Karma Tax (formerly Cash App Taxes) offers completely free filing! Visit Credit Karma Tax to begin your free federal and state return. If you filed with Credit Karma Tax last year, streamline the process by importing your past returns.
TaxAct
TaxAct, another Free File partner, allows free filing if your AGI is under $73,000. However, not all states receive free returns with TaxAct through Free File. It provides free access to tax experts, matching TurboTax’s service.
TaxAct’s state tax returns are relatively expensive, with a $39.95 fee for a super simple tax return and a higher rate of $54.95 for bigger packages like the self-employed option.
Tax Slayer
TaxSlayer is an IRS Free File partner, allowing nearly half of American households to file a free $0 return, regardless of complexity. However, state tax returns may incur charges. The Simply Free package offers free federal and state tax returns for simple tax situations with only W-2s, irrespective of income.
If you don’t qualify for a free state tax return through Free File or the Simply Free Package, it will cost you $39.95.
Jackson Hewitt Tax Service
If opting for Jackson Hewitt online tax software as a self-employed individual, the $25 fee is lower compared to TurboTax or H&R Block. The level of in-software support falls between TurboTax and Credit Karma Tax.
For multiple state tax returns without needing extensive support, Jackson Hewitt is suitable with no charge for state tax returns, only the flat $25 fee. However, if your tax situation is simple or you qualify for Free File, there’s no need to pay the fee; you can file for free elsewhere.
Similar to Credit Karma Tax, Jackson Hewitt offers live product support but lacks live access to tax professionals through the software.
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