Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cash App Taxes - Provides completely free federal and state tax filing for users with simple to moderately complex returns without income limits.
- 2#2: FreeTaxUSA - Delivers free federal tax filing and low-cost state returns with comprehensive support for deductions and credits.
- 3#3: TaxAct - Offers affordable online tax preparation including a free federal edition for basic returns and guarantees maximum refund.
- 4#4: H&R Block Free Online - Enables free filing for simple returns with W-2 income and access to tax pros for complex situations at low cost.
- 5#5: TurboTax Free Edition - Simplifies free tax filing for basic 1040 returns with easy guidance and import features for common forms.
- 6#6: TaxSlayer - Provides low-cost tax software with a free federal option and strong support for self-employed filers.
- 7#7: TaxHawk - Offers free federal preparation and inexpensive state filing with accuracy guarantees and audit support.
- 8#8: OLT - Supports free federal e-filing and cheap state returns with extensive form coverage for various tax situations.
- 9#9: 1040.com - Delivers straightforward online tax filing at competitive prices with step-by-step assistance for individuals.
- 10#10: Liberty Tax Online - Features affordable deluxe online tax prep with live chat support and refund advance options.
These tools were selected based on their combination of strong features, accurate filing capabilities, user-friendly design, and exceptional value, ensuring budget-conscious filers have access to high-quality support.
Comparison Table
This comparison table streamlines the search for affordable tax software, featuring tools like Cash App Taxes, FreeTaxUSA, TaxAct, H&R Block Free Online, TurboTax Free Edition, and more. It breaks down key attributes—such as ease of use, supported forms, and additional features—to help readers identify the best fit for their tax needs, from simple returns to more complex situations. Whether you prioritize cost or robust functionality, this guide simplifies the process of choosing an inexpensive option that works for you.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cash App Taxes Provides completely free federal and state tax filing for users with simple to moderately complex returns without income limits. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.6/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | FreeTaxUSA Delivers free federal tax filing and low-cost state returns with comprehensive support for deductions and credits. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Offers affordable online tax preparation including a free federal edition for basic returns and guarantees maximum refund. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 4 | H&R Block Free Online Enables free filing for simple returns with W-2 income and access to tax pros for complex situations at low cost. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 5 | TurboTax Free Edition Simplifies free tax filing for basic 1040 returns with easy guidance and import features for common forms. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 6 | TaxSlayer Provides low-cost tax software with a free federal option and strong support for self-employed filers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 7 | TaxHawk Offers free federal preparation and inexpensive state filing with accuracy guarantees and audit support. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 8 | OLT Supports free federal e-filing and cheap state returns with extensive form coverage for various tax situations. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 9 | 1040.com Delivers straightforward online tax filing at competitive prices with step-by-step assistance for individuals. | specialized | 6.5/10 | 4.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 10 | Liberty Tax Online Features affordable deluxe online tax prep with live chat support and refund advance options. | specialized | 7.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.3/10 | 8.2/10 |
Provides completely free federal and state tax filing for users with simple to moderately complex returns without income limits.
Delivers free federal tax filing and low-cost state returns with comprehensive support for deductions and credits.
Offers affordable online tax preparation including a free federal edition for basic returns and guarantees maximum refund.
Enables free filing for simple returns with W-2 income and access to tax pros for complex situations at low cost.
Simplifies free tax filing for basic 1040 returns with easy guidance and import features for common forms.
Provides low-cost tax software with a free federal option and strong support for self-employed filers.
Offers free federal preparation and inexpensive state filing with accuracy guarantees and audit support.
Supports free federal e-filing and cheap state returns with extensive form coverage for various tax situations.
Delivers straightforward online tax filing at competitive prices with step-by-step assistance for individuals.
Features affordable deluxe online tax prep with live chat support and refund advance options.
Cash App Taxes
specializedProvides completely free federal and state tax filing for users with simple to moderately complex returns without income limits.
True zero-cost filing for both federal and state returns, even for itemizers and those with dependents
Cash App Taxes is a fully free online tax preparation and e-filing service that handles both federal and one state return without any fees or upsells. It supports common scenarios like W-2 wages, 1099 income, unemployment, student loans, and major credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit. With a mobile-first design integrated into the Cash App ecosystem, it offers step-by-step guidance, prior-year import, and accuracy guarantees for straightforward filers.
Pros
- Completely free federal and state filing with no hidden fees
- Intuitive mobile and web interface with step-by-step prompts
- Fast direct deposit refunds and free audit defense
Cons
- No support for business income (Schedule C), multi-state filing, or foreign income
- Limited customer support options (email only, no live chat)
- Can't handle some advanced forms like K-1 partnerships
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals and families with simple W-2 or 1099 income seeking hassle-free, no-cost tax filing.
Pricing
100% free for federal and one state return; no paid tiers or add-ons.
FreeTaxUSA
specializedDelivers free federal tax filing and low-cost state returns with comprehensive support for deductions and credits.
Unlimited free federal filing regardless of tax complexity or income level
FreeTaxUSA is an online tax preparation platform that provides free federal tax filing for nearly all IRS forms and schedules, supporting everything from simple W-2 income to complex situations like itemized deductions, self-employment, and rental income. State returns cost a flat $14.99 each, making it one of the most affordable options available. The service includes tools for maximizing deductions, error checks, and optional audit support, all accessible via a web-based interface.
Pros
- Free federal filing for virtually all tax situations with no income limits
- Low flat fee of $14.99 per state return
- Comprehensive support for most IRS forms and schedules
Cons
- Customer support limited to email and phone, no live chat
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to flashier competitors
- No option for professional tax review without upgrading to Deluxe
Best For
Cost-conscious individuals and families seeking robust, no-frills tax filing without hidden fees or income restrictions.
Pricing
Free federal returns; $14.99 per state; optional Deluxe upgrade for $7.99 with priority support and audit assistance.
TaxAct
specializedOffers affordable online tax preparation including a free federal edition for basic returns and guarantees maximum refund.
Unmatched low pricing for full-featured federal and state filing support, including unlimited IP PIN entries and deduction finders.
TaxAct is a cost-effective online and desktop tax preparation software designed to help individuals and small businesses file federal and state tax returns with accuracy and efficiency. It offers tiered editions from a free version for simple Form 1040 filers to specialized options for rentals, investments, and self-employment. The platform includes step-by-step guidance, deduction maximizers, and support features like audit assistance to simplify the filing process.
Pros
- Extremely affordable pricing across all editions
- Supports a wide range of tax situations including self-employment and investments
- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantees provide peace of mind
Cons
- User interface feels dated compared to flashier competitors
- Limited live chat support hours
- Frequent upsells to higher tiers during filing
Best For
Budget-conscious taxpayers with straightforward to moderately complex returns seeking reliable filing without premium costs.
Pricing
Free for simple 1040; Deluxe $39.99 federal + $44.99 state; Premier $49.99 federal + $44.99 state; Self-Employed $64.99 federal + $44.99 state (2023 pricing, subject to change).
H&R Block Free Online
specializedEnables free filing for simple returns with W-2 income and access to tax pros for complex situations at low cost.
Free state tax filing included for eligible users, uncommon in other free tax software
H&R Block Free Online is a completely free tax filing service for users with simple tax situations, including W-2 income, unemployment compensation, Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and student loan interest deductions. It guides users through federal and one state return preparation with an intuitive question-and-answer format, prior-year import capabilities, and built-in error checks. Backed by H&R Block's expertise, it offers accuracy and maximum refund guarantees, with options to upgrade for more complex needs.
Pros
- Free federal and state filing for qualifying simple returns
- Intuitive, step-by-step interface with clear explanations
- Accuracy guarantee and maximum refund assurance
Cons
- Limited support for complex situations like itemized deductions or self-employment (requires paid upgrade)
- Frequent upsell prompts during filing process
- Live expert help available only in paid tiers
Best For
Ideal for W-2 employees, retirees, or filers with basic credits and standard deductions seeking a no-cost filing option.
Pricing
Free for simple federal and one state return; paid upgrades (Deluxe, Premium) start at $35+ depending on complexity.
TurboTax Free Edition
specializedSimplifies free tax filing for basic 1040 returns with easy guidance and import features for common forms.
Conversational interview-style guidance that simplifies tax prep like a virtual expert
TurboTax Free Edition is a completely free tax filing software from Intuit, targeted at users with simple tax situations like W-2 income, basic credits, and standard deductions. It uses an interactive, question-and-answer format to guide users through federal tax preparation, ensuring accuracy and IRS compliance. While it supports e-filing at no cost for qualifying returns, it lacks support for complex scenarios and charges for state returns.
Pros
- Completely free federal filing for simple returns
- Highly intuitive step-by-step guidance
- Strong accuracy guarantees and audit support
Cons
- Limited to basic forms (no self-employment or itemized deductions)
- Frequent upsells to paid versions
- State filing requires additional fees or upgrade
Best For
Tax filers with only W-2 wages, limited credits, and no complex deductions who want a free, guided experience.
Pricing
Free for federal simple returns; state returns $39+ or paid upgrade needed.
TaxSlayer
specializedProvides low-cost tax software with a free federal option and strong support for self-employed filers.
Unbeatable low-cost entry with live tax pro support included in Premium and higher plans
TaxSlayer is an online tax preparation software designed for cost-conscious users, offering federal and state e-filing with support for a wide range of tax forms and situations. It provides tiered plans from simple 1040 returns to self-employed filers, with step-by-step guidance and optional expert support. The platform emphasizes affordability while covering common deductions, credits, and imports from prior years or financial institutions.
Pros
- Extremely low pricing for federal and state filing
- Reliable customer support via phone and chat
- Supports most common tax scenarios including itemized deductions
Cons
- Basic interface lacks polish compared to premium competitors
- Limited proactive guidance or audit protection in base plans
- Fewer mobile app features and import options
Best For
Budget-minded individuals and small business owners with straightforward to moderate tax needs who prioritize cost over hand-holding.
Pricing
Free federal for simple returns (paid state ~$40); Classic $36.95 federal + $39.95 state; Premium $49.95 federal + $39.95 state; Self-Employed $64.95 federal + $39.95 state (2024 pricing; military discounts available).
TaxHawk
specializedOffers free federal preparation and inexpensive state filing with accuracy guarantees and audit support.
Unmatched low pricing with full federal and state e-filing support starting under $20
TaxHawk is an affordable online tax preparation software designed for straightforward federal and state tax returns, offering step-by-step guidance through interviews for W-2s, 1099s, deductions, and common credits. It supports e-filing for individuals and is praised for its no-frills approach without upselling aggressive add-ons. Users can access prior-year data and import from previous returns, making it suitable for simple filers seeking cost savings.
Pros
- Exceptionally low pricing for federal and state returns
- Reliable accuracy guarantee and free audit support
- Straightforward interface with minimal upsells
Cons
- Limited customer support options (primarily email)
- Fewer advanced features and import integrations compared to pricier competitors
- Basic design lacks polish and mobile optimization
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals and families with simple to moderately complex tax situations who prioritize affordability over bells and whistles.
Pricing
Federal returns from $14.95 (Simple) to $34.95 (Premium); state returns $14.95 each; free federal filing for very basic returns.
OLT
specializedSupports free federal e-filing and cheap state returns with extensive form coverage for various tax situations.
Lowest price guarantee, beating competitors' prices on equivalent packages
OLT (OnlineTaxes.com) is an affordable online tax preparation software that enables users to file federal and state tax returns electronically with support for common forms like W-2, 1099, and schedules for deductions. It offers a straightforward, step-by-step interface suitable for individuals and small businesses with moderately complex tax situations. The service emphasizes low costs and accuracy guarantees, making it a budget-friendly alternative to pricier competitors.
Pros
- Very low pricing, often the cheapest option available
- Free federal filing for simple returns (under $100k AGI, basic forms)
- 100% accuracy guarantee with free audit support
Cons
- Limited customer support (email only, no live chat or phone)
- Fewer direct import options from financial institutions
- Dated interface compared to modern competitors
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals with simple to moderately complex returns who prioritize cost savings over premium support.
Pricing
Free federal for simple returns; paid federal from $24.95 (Deluxe) to $49.95 (Premium); states $14.95 each.
1040.com
specializedDelivers straightforward online tax filing at competitive prices with step-by-step assistance for individuals.
Ultra-low $14.95 price for quick federal 1040 e-filing
1040.com is a minimalist online service focused on e-filing basic federal Form 1040 tax returns for individuals with simple tax situations. Users answer a short series of questions to generate and submit their return without needing to deal with complex forms or imports. It prioritizes speed and affordability over comprehensive features, making it suitable only for straightforward W-2 income and standard deductions.
Pros
- Extremely low cost for federal filing
- Lightning-fast completion for simple returns
- No software download or account required
Cons
- No state tax return support
- Very limited form and deduction options
- Lacks data import or audit assistance
Best For
Filers with the simplest tax situations, such as single W-2 employees taking the standard deduction.
Pricing
Federal Form 1040 e-filing for $14.95; no state filing available.
Liberty Tax Online
specializedFeatures affordable deluxe online tax prep with live chat support and refund advance options.
Live chat with certified tax experts included in paid plans
Liberty Tax Online is a web-based tax filing service that guides users through preparing and e-filing federal and state income tax returns via an interactive interview process. It supports common forms like W-2s, 1099s, and basic deductions/credits for simple to moderate tax situations. As an affordable option from the Liberty Tax franchise, it emphasizes ease for everyday filers while offering guarantees on accuracy and maximum refunds.
Pros
- Very low starting prices for basic returns
- 100% accuracy guarantee with free audit support
- Live chat access to tax pros for help
Cons
- Limited support for complex investments or self-employment
- Dated interface with occasional glitches
- Aggressive upselling to higher tiers during filing
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with straightforward W-2 income and standard deductions seeking a no-frills online solution.
Pricing
Basic federal starts at $14.99, deluxe at $49.99; state returns $36.99-$44.99 extra; free federal file for very simple returns.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, Cash App Taxes emerges as the top choice, excelling with free federal and state filing for diverse returns. FreeTaxUSA and TaxAct follow closely, offering strong features—free federal with low-cost states for FreeTaxUSA, and a maximum refund guarantee for TaxAct—each suited to different user needs.
Don’t miss out on the ease of Cash App Taxes; try it today to handle your taxes efficiently and affordably.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison