While there are many tax services that offer free options, they are not all the same when it comes to features, functionality, and customer service.
While there are many tax services that offer free options, they are not all the same when it comes to features, functionality, and customer service.
For instance, some might only offer federal filing while others offer free options for both state and federal. Additionally, you might find one tax service restricts income level while another does not.
TurboTax offers a tax service that provides you the option to file your federal taxes for free while also allowing you access to a good portion of the features and functionality of the paid plans. For instance, the free edition includes the ability to chat with live support, import your W-2, and provides a refund guarantee. The user-friendly interface makes the process seamless and guides you through the forms via easy questions, making filing less stressful. However, the free edition is best suited for filers with a more straightforward tax situation. If your tax needs include such things as capital gains income or business income, the paid option is the more appropriate choice.
The SimplyFree Edition from TaxSlayer is extremely easy to navigate, it provides on-screen explanations, and you have access to email or tech support via the phone. To get started, you can simply enter your income, import your W-2, or import your previous year’s tax return. The software then determines the most appropriate deductions for your tax situation. Additionally, though limited, there is an option to have your filing reviewed by a professional.
H&R Block provides free online filing that addresses a variety of common deductions, includes online chat, and provides you access to tax professionals for advice on a variety of common credits and deductions. Unlike many other free options, H&R Block allows you to include more complicated tax situations, such as the 1099-G form for income received from unemployment. You can also file Schedules 1 through 3, which means you can easily report such things as alimony and business income.
IRS Free File provides access to a wide variety of free software designed to make it easier to file your taxes. This program provides you with a myriad of forms and schedules, making it easy to file. However, there are some restrictions. For instance, some services may limit gross income. These limitations mean that if you make too much, you do not qualify while others require filers with high income to complete the forms by hand. Additionally, while some services allow you to file your state taxes for free, this option is usually dependent on your level of income.
ezTaxReturn is a great tax service if you are going to file simple federal taxes. This option offers customer support for free and guarantees users the largest refund possible. However, there are some barriers to accessing this free option, including the requirement that your AGI does not exceed $100,000. This tax service will also not handle such things as dependents and deductions for interest paid on student loans. Finally, you cannot claim income adjustments.
If your filing needs are simple, the free edition from TaxACT is a good tax service as it offers free filing for both federal and state returns. The service is easy to navigate, making it a lot less stressful to file. However, this tax service does have a limited number of ways to qualify, and the qualifications can change over time.
Credit Karma offers one free plan for both federal and state returns and is mobile friendly. Existing members can enjoy the pre-fill option that expedites filling out a return, which can save user’s valuable time. You can access customer support any time you need it, and the company guarantees a maximum refund. In terms of an audit, Credit Karma provides audit defense for free.
The free edition from TaxHawk is a good choice for anyone who needs to file a federal return. In fact, individuals who are self-employed as well as filers who have HSAs or deductions for interest paid on student loans can use this tax service. Although you must pay to file state taxes, a nice addition to this service is the calculator that is included in the platform. You can use this calculator to quickly determine the taxes you owe, and you can use it across multiple states.
Online Taxes is a free tax service for federal filing that is available in every state and does not include an age restriction. This service provides access to all of the major forms and schedules, and you can import your previous year’s tax information. There is no chat option, but you can contact customer service via email free of charge.
This free tax service provides you access to all major forms and schedules. It also allows you to file your federal return for free even if it is a complex form. FreeTaxUSA features the ability to import and store your previous year’s taxes. Finally, the free live support means you can get answers to your tax questions quickly and competently.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.