Quick Overview
- 1#1: FreeTaxUSA - Provides free federal tax filing with low-cost state returns and comprehensive support for most tax situations.
- 2#2: Cash App Taxes - Offers completely free federal and state tax filing without upselling or hidden fees.
- 3#3: TaxAct - Delivers affordable tax software with a robust free edition for simple returns and paid options for complexity.
- 4#4: TaxSlayer - Budget-friendly online tax preparation starting at low prices with strong accuracy guarantees.
- 5#5: H&R Block - Free online filing for basic returns with easy upgrades and expert support options.
- 6#6: TurboTax - User-friendly free edition for simple 1040 returns with intuitive guidance for beginners.
- 7#7: EZ Tax Return - Free federal filing for qualifying simple returns with minimal state fees.
- 8#8: Online Taxes - Low-cost tax software with free federal filing for eligible users and quick e-filing.
- 9#9: FileYourTaxes - Free tax filing for simple returns including W-2 and limited credits.
- 10#10: TaxHawk - Free federal and inexpensive state tax preparation from the makers of FreeTaxUSA.
Tools were selected based on affordability (free/low tiers for essential filing), accuracy reliability, user-friendliness, and comprehensive features, prioritizing strong value across simple and complex tax situations.
Comparison Table
Comparing the cheapest tax software? This table breaks down options like FreeTaxUSA, Cash App Taxes, TaxAct, TaxSlayer, and H&R Block, examining features, pricing, and user-friendliness. Readers will find the best fit for their needs, from straightforward returns to more complex financial situations, ensuring they get the most affordable and reliable option.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | FreeTaxUSA Provides free federal tax filing with low-cost state returns and comprehensive support for most tax situations. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | Cash App Taxes Offers completely free federal and state tax filing without upselling or hidden fees. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Delivers affordable tax software with a robust free edition for simple returns and paid options for complexity. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 4 | TaxSlayer Budget-friendly online tax preparation starting at low prices with strong accuracy guarantees. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 5 | H&R Block Free online filing for basic returns with easy upgrades and expert support options. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 6 | TurboTax User-friendly free edition for simple 1040 returns with intuitive guidance for beginners. | specialized | 7.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 5.8/10 |
| 7 | EZ Tax Return Free federal filing for qualifying simple returns with minimal state fees. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | Online Taxes Low-cost tax software with free federal filing for eligible users and quick e-filing. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 9 | FileYourTaxes Free tax filing for simple returns including W-2 and limited credits. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 10 | TaxHawk Free federal and inexpensive state tax preparation from the makers of FreeTaxUSA. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.8/10 |
Provides free federal tax filing with low-cost state returns and comprehensive support for most tax situations.
Offers completely free federal and state tax filing without upselling or hidden fees.
Delivers affordable tax software with a robust free edition for simple returns and paid options for complexity.
Budget-friendly online tax preparation starting at low prices with strong accuracy guarantees.
Free online filing for basic returns with easy upgrades and expert support options.
User-friendly free edition for simple 1040 returns with intuitive guidance for beginners.
Free federal filing for qualifying simple returns with minimal state fees.
Low-cost tax software with free federal filing for eligible users and quick e-filing.
Free tax filing for simple returns including W-2 and limited credits.
Free federal and inexpensive state tax preparation from the makers of FreeTaxUSA.
FreeTaxUSA
specializedProvides free federal tax filing with low-cost state returns and comprehensive support for most tax situations.
Free federal tax filing with no income limits or form restrictions for most users
FreeTaxUSA is an online tax preparation service that offers free federal tax filing for most users, supporting a wide range of forms, schedules, deductions, and credits without income restrictions. It handles everything from simple 1040s to complex situations like self-employment, investments, and itemized deductions. State returns are available for a flat fee of $14.99, with optional deluxe support for $7.99, making it ideal for cost-conscious filers.
Pros
- Free federal filing for all supported forms and complexities
- Very low $14.99 state filing fee
- Comprehensive coverage of IRS forms and schedules
Cons
- Basic, no-frills interface lacks polish
- Support limited to email (no live chat or phone)
- Web-based only, no dedicated mobile app
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals and families needing reliable, low-cost tax filing for simple to moderately complex returns.
Pricing
Federal filing free; state returns $14.99 each; deluxe audit support $7.99.
Cash App Taxes
specializedOffers completely free federal and state tax filing without upselling or hidden fees.
Truly free filing for both federal and state taxes without income restrictions or form limitations for most users
Cash App Taxes is a fully free online tax filing platform that allows users to prepare and e-file both federal and state returns without any cost. It supports a wide range of common tax situations, including W-2 income, 1099 forms, itemized deductions, and credits like the EITC and CTC. The intuitive interface provides step-by-step guidance, prior-year imports, and accuracy guarantees to simplify the process for most filers.
Pros
- Completely free federal and state filing with no income limits or hidden fees
- Supports most common forms and situations for simple to moderate complexity
- Easy prior-year import, PDF uploads, and mobile-friendly interface
Cons
- Limited support for highly complex scenarios like multiple states or foreign income
- Customer support limited to email (no live chat or phone)
- No desktop app; web and mobile only
Best For
Taxpayers with straightforward to moderately complex returns seeking the cheapest reliable free filing option.
Pricing
100% free for federal and one state return; no paid upgrades or upsells.
TaxAct
specializedDelivers affordable tax software with a robust free edition for simple returns and paid options for complexity.
Affordable bundled federal and state e-filing at flat low rates, cheaper than most competitors for equivalent coverage
TaxAct is a budget-friendly online tax preparation software that enables users to file federal and state tax returns quickly and accurately. It offers tiered plans from free basic filing to advanced options for self-employed individuals and complex situations, with support for most IRS forms. Known for its straightforward approach, it includes tools like refund calculators and audit assistance guarantees.
Pros
- Very low pricing, often under $50 for federal and state filing
- Supports a wide range of tax forms and situations
- Maximum refund and accuracy guarantees with free audit support
Cons
- User interface appears dated compared to competitors
- Limited free live chat or phone support without add-ons
- Fewer interactive guidance tools for beginners
Best For
Cost-conscious filers with straightforward to moderately complex returns who prioritize affordability over premium hand-holding.
Pricing
Free federal for simple 1040 (state extra); paid tiers from $0-$65 federal + $40-$55 state, bundles often under $100 total.
TaxSlayer
specializedBudget-friendly online tax preparation starting at low prices with strong accuracy guarantees.
Lowest entry pricing for full-featured filing including self-employed support
TaxSlayer is an online tax preparation software focused on delivering affordable federal and state return filing for individuals and self-employed users. It offers tiered plans from free basic filing to advanced options for complex situations like itemized deductions and business income. Designed for cost-conscious filers, it provides essential tools for accurate e-filing without unnecessary frills or high costs.
Pros
- Very low pricing across all tiers
- Supports federal, state, and most common deductions/schedules
- Reliable customer support via chat and phone
Cons
- Dated user interface compared to competitors
- Limited mobile app features
- No free audit defense in base plans
Best For
Budget-minded taxpayers with simple to moderately complex returns seeking maximum value without premium polish.
Pricing
Free for simple federal 1040; Classic ($24.95 federal + $39.95 state); Premium ($45 federal + $39.95 state); Self-Employed ($59.95 federal + $39.95 state).
H&R Block
specializedFree online filing for basic returns with easy upgrades and expert support options.
Tax Pro Review add-on for real-time expert validation at an additional low cost
H&R Block's online tax software offers a comprehensive platform for preparing and e-filing federal and state tax returns, suitable for simple W-2 filers up to complex situations like investments and self-employment. It features a free edition for basic returns and tiered paid plans with step-by-step guidance, import tools, and accuracy guarantees. Users benefit from optional live chat support and integration with H&R Block's nationwide offices for hybrid filing options.
Pros
- Free edition covers simple returns including major credits like EITC and CTC
- Strong accuracy guarantee and 5-year audit support
- Easy import from prior years and 24/7 chat support
Cons
- Paid tiers cost more than ultra-cheap alternatives like FreeTaxUSA
- State returns incur extra $37 fee on all plans
- Frequent upsells during filing process
Best For
Filers seeking reliable, supported tax software for simple to moderate complexity without the absolute lowest price.
Pricing
Free Edition: $0 (federal only, limited states); Deluxe: $35 federal + $37 state; Premium & Self-Employed: $65-$115 federal + $37 state.
TurboTax
specializedUser-friendly free edition for simple 1040 returns with intuitive guidance for beginners.
Conversational interview-style filing that simulates working with a tax professional
TurboTax is a popular tax preparation software from Intuit that guides users through filing federal and state income taxes via an intuitive, question-and-answer format. It offers a Free Edition for simple returns (like W-2 income and basic credits) alongside paid tiers for complex scenarios such as itemized deductions, investments, rentals, and self-employment. While renowned for accuracy and ease, its pricing structure often exceeds budget-focused alternatives.
Pros
- Highly intuitive step-by-step guidance
- Live expert assistance available
- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantees
Cons
- More expensive than true budget options
- Free Edition limited to basic returns
- Aggressive upsells to higher tiers
Best For
Users prioritizing ease and support over rock-bottom pricing for moderately complex returns.
Pricing
Free Edition: $0 federal/$0 state (simple 1040 only); Deluxe: ~$60 federal + $50 state; Premier/Self-Employed: ~$90-$120 federal + $50 state (2023 pricing, varies yearly).
EZ Tax Return
specializedFree federal filing for qualifying simple returns with minimal state fees.
100% free federal and state e-filing for most basic returns with no hidden fees
EZ Tax Return is an affordable online tax filing service that provides free federal and state e-filing for simple returns, primarily supporting W-2 income, standard deductions, and basic credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit. It caters to users seeking a no-frills, budget-friendly alternative to more expensive software. The platform emphasizes speed and simplicity, with step-by-step guidance through the tax preparation process.
Pros
- Free federal and state filing for qualifying simple returns
- Straightforward, intuitive interface for beginners
- Fast e-filing and direct deposit options
Cons
- Limited support for complex situations like itemized deductions or investments
- Basic customer support without live chat or phone
- Fewer import options compared to premium competitors
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with simple W-2 income and standard deductions who prioritize free filing over advanced features.
Pricing
Free for simple federal and one state return; paid upgrades for complex forms start at $19.95.
Online Taxes
specializedLow-cost tax software with free federal filing for eligible users and quick e-filing.
Truly free federal and state filing for eligible simple returns with no upsells or payment required upfront
Online Taxes (olt.com) is a web-based tax preparation platform offering free federal and one state return for simple tax situations like W-2 income and basic deductions. It provides affordable paid upgrades for more complex scenarios, including itemized deductions, self-employment income, and multiple states. The service supports e-filing with IRS and state agencies, emphasizing cost savings without aggressive upsells.
Pros
- Free federal and one state return for qualifying simple filers
- Low-cost paid tiers starting under $20
- No hidden fees or mandatory credit card entry
Cons
- Outdated interface feels clunky
- Limited customer support options
- Fewer advanced import tools than premium competitors
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with simple tax returns who prioritize zero-cost filing over polished design.
Pricing
Free for simple federal + one state; Deluxe $14.99 federal + $14.99 state; Premium $24.99 federal + $24.99 state.
FileYourTaxes
specializedFree tax filing for simple returns including W-2 and limited credits.
Unmatched free federal e-filing eligibility for millions under IRS thresholds, with no upsell pressure for basics
FileYourTaxes.com is a budget-friendly online tax preparation platform offering free federal e-filing for simple returns under IRS Free File guidelines, with affordable upgrades for more complex situations like itemized deductions or self-employment. It supports electronic filing for all 50 states and handles common forms such as 1040, Schedule C, and credits like EITC and CTC. Designed for cost savings, it prioritizes straightforward navigation over advanced tools, making it ideal for users avoiding high fees from bigger competitors.
Pros
- Free federal filing for qualifying simple returns (AGI under $79K)
- Low state filing fees starting at $14.99
- Supports all states and common schedules without hidden costs
Cons
- Basic customer support (email only, no live chat)
- Lacks import from prior years or advanced planning tools
- Interface is functional but less polished than top competitors
Best For
Cost-sensitive filers with simple to moderately complex returns who prioritize savings over premium features.
Pricing
Free federal for simple 1040s; $14.99+ per state; Deluxe ($24.95) or Premium ($39.95) for itemizing/self-employment.
TaxHawk
specializedFree federal and inexpensive state tax preparation from the makers of FreeTaxUSA.
Unmatched low-cost pricing for federal and state returns starting under $15
TaxHawk is a budget-friendly online tax preparation service offering federal and state e-filing at some of the lowest prices available. It supports a variety of common tax situations, including W-2 income, itemized deductions, self-employment via Schedule C, and rental properties on Schedule E. While it lacks the polish of premium competitors, it delivers reliable filing for straightforward to moderately complex returns without unnecessary extras.
Pros
- Extremely low pricing for federal and state filing
- Supports key forms like Schedule C and E for self-employed users
- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantees
Cons
- Dated, basic user interface
- Limited support (email only, no live chat or phone)
- No mobile app or audit defense
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with simple to moderate tax needs who prioritize cost over modern design and hand-holding.
Pricing
Federal e-filing starts at $14.95 (basic), up to $64.95 (premium); state returns $14.95-$36.95 extra.
Conclusion
Navigating the cheapest tax software options highlights a mix of reliable tools, each with unique strengths, but one rises above as the top choice. FreeTaxUSA leads, offering free federal filing and low-cost state returns with broad support for various tax situations. Cash App Taxes and TaxAct follow, strong alternatives with Cash App’s no-upselling approach and TaxAct’s robust free edition for simple returns, ensuring there’s a fit for most needs.
To file efficiently and affordably, start with FreeTaxUSA—the top-ranked option designed to simplify your tax process without compromising on quality or cost.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison