Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cash App Taxes - Offers completely free federal and state tax filing for most simple returns with no hidden fees or upselling.
- 2#2: FreeTaxUSA - Provides free federal tax filing and low-cost state returns with support for complex forms at minimal expense.
- 3#3: TaxAct - Delivers a free edition for simple returns plus affordable paid tiers with robust features and accuracy guarantees.
- 4#4: H&R Block Free Online - Free online filing for basic 1040 returns with easy interface and live support options at low cost.
- 5#5: TurboTax Free Edition - Free filing for simple tax situations with intuitive guidance and import features from prior years.
- 6#6: TaxSlayer Classic - Budget-friendly self-guided tax prep starting under $20 with support for most IRS forms and schedules.
- 7#7: OLT (Online Taxes) - Extremely low-cost e-filing from $0 federal and $7.95 state with no income limits for all filers.
- 8#8: TaxBrain - Free federal and one state return for qualifying simple filers with straightforward online process.
- 9#9: Jackson Hewitt Online - Affordable online tax software with free federal for simple returns and expert help available.
- 10#10: Liberty Tax Online - Low-cost DIY tax filing with free federal for basic forms and guarantees maximum refund.
We prioritized tools with low upfront costs, robust feature sets, intuitive interfaces, and proven reliability, ensuring each entry offers exceptional value for taxpayers seeking budget-friendly solutions.
Comparison Table
Navigating tax software can be challenging, but this comparison table simplifies the search by highlighting the least expensive options, ensuring accessibility. It features tools like Cash App Taxes, FreeTaxUSA, TaxAct, H&R Block Free Online, TurboTax Free Edition, and more, helping readers understand key features and value to find their ideal fit.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cash App Taxes Offers completely free federal and state tax filing for most simple returns with no hidden fees or upselling. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | FreeTaxUSA Provides free federal tax filing and low-cost state returns with support for complex forms at minimal expense. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Delivers a free edition for simple returns plus affordable paid tiers with robust features and accuracy guarantees. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 4 | H&R Block Free Online Free online filing for basic 1040 returns with easy interface and live support options at low cost. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 5 | TurboTax Free Edition Free filing for simple tax situations with intuitive guidance and import features from prior years. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 7.6/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 6 | TaxSlayer Classic Budget-friendly self-guided tax prep starting under $20 with support for most IRS forms and schedules. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 7 | OLT (Online Taxes) Extremely low-cost e-filing from $0 federal and $7.95 state with no income limits for all filers. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 8 | TaxBrain Free federal and one state return for qualifying simple filers with straightforward online process. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 9 | Jackson Hewitt Online Affordable online tax software with free federal for simple returns and expert help available. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 10 | Liberty Tax Online Low-cost DIY tax filing with free federal for basic forms and guarantees maximum refund. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
Offers completely free federal and state tax filing for most simple returns with no hidden fees or upselling.
Provides free federal tax filing and low-cost state returns with support for complex forms at minimal expense.
Delivers a free edition for simple returns plus affordable paid tiers with robust features and accuracy guarantees.
Free online filing for basic 1040 returns with easy interface and live support options at low cost.
Free filing for simple tax situations with intuitive guidance and import features from prior years.
Budget-friendly self-guided tax prep starting under $20 with support for most IRS forms and schedules.
Extremely low-cost e-filing from $0 federal and $7.95 state with no income limits for all filers.
Free federal and one state return for qualifying simple filers with straightforward online process.
Affordable online tax software with free federal for simple returns and expert help available.
Low-cost DIY tax filing with free federal for basic forms and guarantees maximum refund.
Cash App Taxes
specializedOffers completely free federal and state tax filing for most simple returns with no hidden fees or upselling.
Truly free federal and state e-filing for the vast majority of users, without aggressive upselling to premium tiers
Cash App Taxes is a completely free online tax preparation and e-filing service that handles both federal and state returns for most individual filers without any cost. It supports common scenarios like W-2 wages, unemployment benefits, student loan interest, and investments, guiding users through a step-by-step interview process. The platform emphasizes simplicity and accuracy, with features like prior-year import and error checks to ensure compliant filings.
Pros
- Completely free federal and state filing with no upsells or hidden fees
- Intuitive step-by-step guidance and easy data import
- Accuracy guarantee and free audit defense for supported situations
Cons
- Limited support for self-employment income (no Schedule C)
- Only one free state return per state
- Chat-based support only, no phone assistance
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals with simple to moderate tax situations, such as W-2 employees or basic investments, seeking zero-cost filing.
Pricing
100% free for federal returns and one state return per supported state; no paid upgrades required.
FreeTaxUSA
specializedProvides free federal tax filing and low-cost state returns with support for complex forms at minimal expense.
Free federal filing supporting nearly all IRS forms regardless of return complexity or income level
FreeTaxUSA is a web-based tax preparation software that offers free federal tax filing for users with simple to complex returns, supporting most IRS forms including itemized deductions, self-employment income, and investments. State returns are available for a flat fee of $14.99 per state, with no income restrictions or hidden costs for federal filing. A deluxe version adds priority support for just $7.99 on top of state fees, making it ideal for cost-conscious filers seeking comprehensive coverage without premium pricing.
Pros
- Free federal e-filing for all complexities with no income limits
- Low flat fee of $14.99 per state return
- No upsells or aggressive marketing during filing
Cons
- Basic interface lacks the polish of premium competitors
- Customer support primarily via email with limited live chat hours
- No dedicated mobile app, web-only access
Best For
Budget-minded individuals and families filing complex returns who prioritize affordability over flashy design.
Pricing
Free federal filing; $14.99 per state; deluxe support $7.99 federal + state fee.
TaxAct
specializedDelivers a free edition for simple returns plus affordable paid tiers with robust features and accuracy guarantees.
Aggressively low bundled pricing that delivers full federal and state filing for under $100 even for complex scenarios, undercutting major rivals.
TaxAct is an affordable online tax preparation platform that enables users to file federal and state income taxes with support for a wide range of forms and situations, from simple W-2 income to self-employment and investments. It offers tiered plans starting with a robust free edition for basic returns, making it accessible for cost-conscious filers. The software emphasizes accuracy with refund guarantees and includes tools like audit defense in paid versions.
Pros
- Extremely low pricing across all tiers, often the cheapest for complex returns
- Comprehensive form coverage including Schedules C, D, and E
- Includes free audit support and accuracy guarantees in paid plans
Cons
- Interface feels dated and less intuitive than premium competitors
- Limited live chat or phone support in lower tiers
- State returns cost extra ($35-$45 each)
Best For
Budget-minded individuals and small business owners seeking reliable, no-frills tax filing without high costs.
Pricing
Free for simple 1040 returns; Deluxe ~$40 federal + $40/state; Premier ~$60 federal + $40/state; Self-Employed ~$85 federal + $40/state (2023 pricing; varies yearly).
H&R Block Free Online
specializedFree online filing for basic 1040 returns with easy interface and live support options at low cost.
Free state return filing included for qualifying users, setting it apart from many other free tools that charge extra for states.
H&R Block Free Online is a completely free tax preparation tool for filers with simple tax situations, supporting W-2 wages, unemployment income, Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, student loan interest, and basic educators' expenses. It allows users to e-file both federal and one state return at no cost if they qualify, with step-by-step guidance mimicking an in-person experience. While limited in scope, it provides a reliable option for straightforward returns without hidden fees for eligible users.
Pros
- Completely free federal and state filing for qualifying simple returns
- User-friendly interface with clear guidance and import tools
- 100% accuracy guarantee and maximum refund promise
Cons
- Limited to basic forms; no support for itemized deductions or self-employment
- No live expert support or audit assistance in free version
- Must upgrade for more complex situations, with fees starting at $35
Best For
W-2 employees and dependents with standard deductions, basic credits like EITC or CTC, seeking a free and simple e-filing solution.
Pricing
Free for eligible simple federal and state returns; paid versions from $35+ for complex filings.
TurboTax Free Edition
specializedFree filing for simple tax situations with intuitive guidance and import features from prior years.
Seamless, conversational interview process that simplifies tax prep for complete beginners without needing tax knowledge.
TurboTax Free Edition is a completely free online tax filing software from Intuit, designed specifically for users with simple tax situations such as W-2 income, unemployment benefits, student loan interest deductions, and standard deductions. It provides step-by-step guidance through an intuitive interview process to prepare and e-file both federal and one state return at no cost. While limited in scope, it offers accuracy guarantees and integration with prior TurboTax data for eligible filers.
Pros
- Completely free federal and one state e-file for simple returns
- Highly intuitive step-by-step guidance
- TurboTax Accuracy and Maximum Refund Guarantees
Cons
- Limited to basic tax situations (no itemizing, self-employment, or investments)
- Frequent upsells to paid versions during filing
- Basic support options compared to premium editions
Best For
Individuals with straightforward W-2 income, standard deductions, and no complex deductions or credits seeking a reliable free filing tool.
Pricing
Free for federal and one state return if your return qualifies as simple (covers Forms 1040 with limited schedules).
TaxSlayer Classic
specializedBudget-friendly self-guided tax prep starting under $20 with support for most IRS forms and schedules.
Covers over 100 IRS forms at rock-bottom prices, rivaling more expensive software's form support
TaxSlayer Classic is a budget-friendly online tax software from taxslayer.com designed for individuals and families with straightforward to moderately complex tax situations. It supports over 100 IRS forms and schedules, including common deductions like mortgage interest, student loans, and child tax credits, enabling quick federal and state e-filing. Users benefit from step-by-step guidance and accuracy guarantees, making it a solid choice for cost-conscious filers avoiding pricier competitors.
Pros
- Extremely low pricing for federal and state filing
- Supports a wide range of common forms and schedules
- Simple, intuitive interface with progress tracking
Cons
- No live chat or phone support in Classic tier
- Limited advanced tools for very complex returns
- Interface appears somewhat dated compared to premium options
Best For
Budget-minded filers with simple to moderate tax situations who prioritize affordability over premium support.
Pricing
Federal e-filing at $24.95, plus $39.95 per state return; free for basic 1040 filers in some cases.
OLT (Online Taxes)
specializedExtremely low-cost e-filing from $0 federal and $7.95 state with no income limits for all filers.
Unlimited free federal filing for any complexity, with no income caps—truly one of the cheapest full-service options available.
OLT (Online Taxes) at olt.com is a budget-friendly online tax preparation service that offers free federal tax filing for nearly all users, regardless of income or return complexity, supporting over 100 IRS forms. It pairs this with low-cost state returns starting at $14.99, making it one of the most affordable options for e-filing. The web-based platform emphasizes simplicity and speed, ideal for cost-conscious individuals avoiding expensive alternatives.
Pros
- Completely free federal filing with no income limits or form restrictions
- Very low state filing fees (as low as $14.99)
- Supports complex returns including Schedule C and rental income
Cons
- Outdated user interface feels clunky compared to modern competitors
- Limited customer support options (mostly email and FAQs)
- No dedicated mobile app, web-only experience
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with simple to moderately complex returns who prioritize the lowest possible cost over a polished user experience.
Pricing
Free federal e-filing; state returns $14.99-$24.99; deluxe/audit defense upgrades $15-$30.
TaxBrain
specializedFree federal and one state return for qualifying simple filers with straightforward online process.
Unrestricted free federal e-filing for simple returns regardless of income level
TaxBrain (taxbrain.com) is a web-based tax preparation software focused on delivering the lowest-cost federal and state tax filing options. It offers free federal returns for simple 1040 forms and low-priced upgrades for itemized deductions, credits, and schedules. Primarily aimed at budget filers, it supports direct IRS e-filing but has limited advanced tools compared to premium suites.
Pros
- Free federal filing for basic returns
- Very low prices with no hidden fees or upsells
- Simple, no-download interface
Cons
- Limited support for complex tax situations
- Basic customer service options
- Fewer state return integrations
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals with straightforward W-2 income and minimal deductions seeking rock-bottom prices.
Pricing
Free federal simple return; Deluxe federal $19.95; State returns start at $14.95.
Jackson Hewitt Online
specializedAffordable online tax software with free federal for simple returns and expert help available.
Hybrid model allowing seamless upgrade to professional tax pro assistance online or at 5,000+ locations
Jackson Hewitt Online is an affordable tax preparation platform that enables users to file federal and multiple state returns electronically with support for common forms like W-2s, 1099s, and schedules for deductions. It features a straightforward interview-style process, import capabilities from prior years or PDF uploads, and basic accuracy guarantees. While not as advanced as premium competitors, it provides essential functionality at a low cost, with options to escalate to professional review if needed.
Pros
- Very low pricing tiers for basic to moderately complex returns
- Simple, guided interface suitable for beginners
- Backup option to consult Jackson Hewitt tax pros in-person or online
Cons
- Fewer advanced deduction optimizers compared to pricier software
- State filing often incurs extra fees
- Limited free tier restricted to the simplest forms
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals with straightforward tax situations who want reliable filing without premium bells and whistles.
Pricing
Federal starts at $0 for simple 1040; paid plans $25-$85 plus $20-$40 per state; discounts often available.
Liberty Tax Online
specializedLow-cost DIY tax filing with free federal for basic forms and guarantees maximum refund.
Free federal filing for basic W-2 returns with no income limits
Liberty Tax Online is an affordable DIY tax filing platform from Liberty Tax Service, designed for straightforward federal and state returns with tiered pricing plans. It supports common forms like W-2, 1099, and basic deductions, including free filing for simple 1040 returns. The software emphasizes ease of use with step-by-step guidance and offers add-ons like audit protection and live chat support for an extra fee.
Pros
- Very low pricing, including free federal for simple returns
- 100% accuracy guarantee with audit support
- Step-by-step interview process that's beginner-friendly
Cons
- Limited advanced import options compared to competitors
- Frequent upsells during filing process
- Basic interface lacks modern polish
Best For
Budget-conscious filers with simple to moderate tax situations who want cheap, no-frills software.
Pricing
Free for simple federal returns; Deluxe starts at $35, Premium at $60 (plus $30-40 per state); audit defense extra.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools offer a range of affordable options, with Cash App Taxes leading as the top choice for its free federal and state filing with no hidden fees or upselling. FreeTaxUSA and TaxAct stand out as strong alternatives—FreeTaxUSA for low-cost complex forms, and TaxAct for robust features and accuracy. Whatever your tax situation, there’s a budget-friendly solution here.
Begin your tax filing journey on the right foot—try Cash App Taxes to experience its free, transparent process and breeze through your return.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison