Quick Overview
- 1#1: TurboTax - Comprehensive DIY tax preparation software with step-by-step guidance, import features, and live expert help for maximum refunds without needing an EFIN.
- 2#2: H&R Block - User-friendly online tax filing with accuracy guarantees, audit support, and seamless import from prior years, ideal for non-professionals.
- 3#3: TaxSlayer - Affordable tax software offering robust features for complex returns, excellent support, and fast e-filing without EFIN requirements.
- 4#4: TaxAct - Value-packed tax prep tool with Xpert Assist, refund maximization, and easy W-2/1099 imports for straightforward consumer filing.
- 5#5: FreeTaxUSA - Low-cost federal filing with paid state options, advanced calculations, and audit risk assessment for budget-conscious users.
- 6#6: Cash App Taxes - Completely free tax filing for most users with direct deposit support and no upselling, perfect for simple to moderate returns.
- 7#7: Liberty Tax - Online tax software with live chat support, refund advance options, and easy navigation for individuals avoiding professional credentials.
- 8#8: Jackson Hewitt - Reliable online tax prep with peace of mind guarantee, expert review add-ons, and mobile-friendly interface for personal use.
- 9#9: 1040.com - Streamlined tax filing service supporting all major forms with quick processing and strong privacy features for non-EFIN filers.
- 10#10: OLT.com - Budget online tax software with free federal filing for simple returns and accurate e-filing capabilities without professional setup.
Tools were selected and ranked based on critical factors: feature breadth (including import capabilities and support for complex forms), user interface intuitiveness, reliability (such as accuracy guarantees and audit support), and overall value. This framework ensures the list prioritizes both performance and practicality, guiding users to the best fit for their unique filing requirements.
Comparison Table
Navigating tax software can be challenging, but this comparison table simplifies the process by examining top options like TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxSlayer, TaxAct, FreeTaxUSA, and more. It outlines key details to help readers understand usability, cost, features, and support, guiding them toward the best fit for their filing needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TurboTax Comprehensive DIY tax preparation software with step-by-step guidance, import features, and live expert help for maximum refunds without needing an EFIN. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | H&R Block User-friendly online tax filing with accuracy guarantees, audit support, and seamless import from prior years, ideal for non-professionals. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | TaxSlayer Affordable tax software offering robust features for complex returns, excellent support, and fast e-filing without EFIN requirements. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 4 | TaxAct Value-packed tax prep tool with Xpert Assist, refund maximization, and easy W-2/1099 imports for straightforward consumer filing. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 5 | FreeTaxUSA Low-cost federal filing with paid state options, advanced calculations, and audit risk assessment for budget-conscious users. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 6 | Cash App Taxes Completely free tax filing for most users with direct deposit support and no upselling, perfect for simple to moderate returns. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 10/10 |
| 7 | Liberty Tax Online tax software with live chat support, refund advance options, and easy navigation for individuals avoiding professional credentials. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 8 | Jackson Hewitt Reliable online tax prep with peace of mind guarantee, expert review add-ons, and mobile-friendly interface for personal use. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | 1040.com Streamlined tax filing service supporting all major forms with quick processing and strong privacy features for non-EFIN filers. | specialized | 6.5/10 | 5.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 10 | OLT.com Budget online tax software with free federal filing for simple returns and accurate e-filing capabilities without professional setup. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
Comprehensive DIY tax preparation software with step-by-step guidance, import features, and live expert help for maximum refunds without needing an EFIN.
User-friendly online tax filing with accuracy guarantees, audit support, and seamless import from prior years, ideal for non-professionals.
Affordable tax software offering robust features for complex returns, excellent support, and fast e-filing without EFIN requirements.
Value-packed tax prep tool with Xpert Assist, refund maximization, and easy W-2/1099 imports for straightforward consumer filing.
Low-cost federal filing with paid state options, advanced calculations, and audit risk assessment for budget-conscious users.
Completely free tax filing for most users with direct deposit support and no upselling, perfect for simple to moderate returns.
Online tax software with live chat support, refund advance options, and easy navigation for individuals avoiding professional credentials.
Reliable online tax prep with peace of mind guarantee, expert review add-ons, and mobile-friendly interface for personal use.
Streamlined tax filing service supporting all major forms with quick processing and strong privacy features for non-EFIN filers.
Budget online tax software with free federal filing for simple returns and accurate e-filing capabilities without professional setup.
TurboTax
specializedComprehensive DIY tax preparation software with step-by-step guidance, import features, and live expert help for maximum refunds without needing an EFIN.
Adaptive interview-style guidance that feels like a personal tax advisor, tailoring questions to your unique situation for accuracy and ease.
TurboTax is a leading No EFIN tax software solution designed for individual taxpayers, enabling seamless preparation and e-filing of federal and state returns without requiring an Electronic Filing Identification Number. It offers an intuitive step-by-step interview process that guides users through complex tax situations, automatically importing data from W-2s, 1099s, and prior-year returns. With robust support for deductions, credits, and audits, it ensures maximum refunds and IRS compliance for DIY filers.
Pros
- Highly intuitive step-by-step guidance simplifies complex taxes
- Comprehensive import tools and deduction maximization
- Multiple support options including Live Expert assistance
Cons
- Premium tiers can be pricey for simple returns
- Aggressive upselling during the filing process
- State filing requires additional fees
Best For
Individuals, families, and freelancers seeking professional-grade tax filing without needing an EFIN or tax professional.
Pricing
Free Edition for simple 1040s; Deluxe ($59+ federal, $49+ state); Premier ($89+); Self-Employed ($119+); prices vary by promotion.
H&R Block
specializedUser-friendly online tax filing with accuracy guarantees, audit support, and seamless import from prior years, ideal for non-professionals.
Tax Pro Review: Optional live expert review of your completed return before filing
H&R Block Online is a user-friendly tax preparation platform that enables individuals to file federal and state taxes electronically without requiring an EFIN, making it ideal for personal DIY filers. It supports a wide range of tax situations from simple W-2 income to complex scenarios like investments, self-employment, and rental properties. The software includes guided navigation, automatic import tools, and optional professional review services for added confidence.
Pros
- Intuitive step-by-step guidance with search functionality
- Seamless import of W-2s, 1099s, and prior-year data
- 100% accuracy guarantee and access to live tax pros
Cons
- State returns require additional fees
- Advanced features locked behind higher tiers
- Slightly higher cost than basic free alternatives
Best For
DIY filers with moderate to complex returns who value professional support and guarantees without needing an EFIN.
Pricing
Free Edition for simple returns; Deluxe ($35+), Premium ($65+), Self-Employed ($85+), plus $37-50 per state.
TaxSlayer
specializedAffordable tax software offering robust features for complex returns, excellent support, and fast e-filing without EFIN requirements.
Price Lock Promise guaranteeing lower costs than TurboTax and H&R Block for equivalent features
TaxSlayer is an online DIY tax filing software that enables individuals to prepare and e-file federal and state returns without needing an EFIN, ideal for personal use. It offers tiered plans from free basic filing to advanced options for self-employed filers, supporting a wide range of forms like Schedule C, rental income, and investments. The platform emphasizes affordability and step-by-step guidance to maximize refunds.
Pros
- Significantly lower pricing than major competitors
- Strong customer support via live chat and phone
- Supports complex returns including self-employment without pro-level requirements
Cons
- Fewer automated import options compared to TurboTax
- Interface feels less modern and polished
- State filing costs extra on all plans
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals or families with moderate to complex tax situations seeking reliable, no-frills filing.
Pricing
Free for simple 1040 returns; Classic ($24.95 federal + $39.95 state), Premium ($45 federal + $45 state), Self-Employed ($64.95 federal + $44.95 state).
TaxAct
specializedValue-packed tax prep tool with Xpert Assist, refund maximization, and easy W-2/1099 imports for straightforward consumer filing.
Maximum Refund & Maximum Tax Savings Guarantee, which promises the largest refund or tax savings or they pay the difference
TaxAct is a consumer-oriented online and desktop tax preparation software that enables individuals to file federal and state income taxes without needing an EFIN, making it ideal for personal use. It offers tiered products from a free edition for simple 1040 returns to advanced versions handling investments, rentals, and self-employment. The software includes step-by-step guidance, data import from prior years or financial institutions, and accuracy guarantees to simplify the filing process.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with a robust free edition
- Supports a wide range of tax situations including self-employment
- Strong data import and accuracy guarantee features
Cons
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to competitors
- Live support is not 24/7 and requires upgrade
- State returns incur extra fees
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals and families with straightforward to moderately complex tax returns seeking reliable DIY filing without professional credentials.
Pricing
Free for simple federal returns; paid tiers start at $39.99 (Deluxe), $59.99 (Premier), $99.99 (Self-Employed), plus $39.99 per state.
FreeTaxUSA
specializedLow-cost federal filing with paid state options, advanced calculations, and audit risk assessment for budget-conscious users.
Unlimited free federal e-filing regardless of income or complexity for supported forms
FreeTaxUSA is an online tax filing platform designed for individual filers, offering free federal tax returns with support for most common forms like W-2, 1099, Schedule C, and various deductions and credits. It provides state return filing for a low fee and includes tools for importing prior-year data and prior-year PDFs. As a no-EFIN solution, it's ideal for personal use without professional provider requirements, emphasizing affordability and simplicity over advanced professional features.
Pros
- Free federal filing with no income limits or form restrictions for standard returns
- Low-cost state filing at $14.99 per state
- Supports a wide range of forms and import options for accuracy
Cons
- Basic interface lacks the polish and guidance of premium competitors
- Limited live customer support (email and basic help only)
- No dedicated mobile app, though mobile-friendly web access
Best For
Budget-conscious DIY filers with straightforward to moderately complex tax situations who prioritize cost savings over hand-holding.
Pricing
Federal returns free; state returns $14.99 each; optional deluxe upgrade $7.99 for extra forms.
Cash App Taxes
specializedCompletely free tax filing for most users with direct deposit support and no upselling, perfect for simple to moderate returns.
100% free e-filing for federal and one state with no hidden fees or premium tiers required
Cash App Taxes is a free DIY tax filing service from Block Inc. that enables users to prepare and e-file federal and one state tax return online or via mobile app without needing an EFIN. It handles common scenarios like W-2 wages, 1099 income, unemployment, student loans, and investments up to moderate complexity. The platform emphasizes simplicity and accuracy with step-by-step guidance and prior-year import options.
Pros
- Completely free federal and one state filing with no upsells
- Intuitive interface with mobile app support and easy import from prior years
- Reliable accuracy backed by Block's technology
Cons
- Limited to one free state return (additional states cost extra)
- No live phone or chat support, only email
- Doesn't support highly complex returns like multiple states or business filings
Best For
Individuals with straightforward W-2 and basic 1099 income seeking a no-cost, user-friendly DIY filing option.
Pricing
Free for federal and one state return; additional states $39 each.
Liberty Tax
specializedOnline tax software with live chat support, refund advance options, and easy navigation for individuals avoiding professional credentials.
Hybrid support bridging online filing with access to Liberty Tax franchise offices for in-person assistance.
Liberty Tax Online is a consumer-oriented tax preparation platform that enables individuals to prepare and e-file federal and state returns without an EFIN, ideal for personal DIY filing. It supports common forms like W-2, 1099, Schedule C for self-employment, and deductions for homeowners and investors. The software provides step-by-step guidance, accuracy guarantees, and optional live expert support to simplify the process.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with clear prompts
- Free federal e-filing for simple returns
- On-demand chat with tax pros
Cons
- Extra fees for state returns and upgrades
- Frequent upselling prompts
- Fewer import options than top competitors
Best For
DIY filers with straightforward to moderate tax situations who value guided support without professional credentials.
Pricing
Free for simple federal returns; Deluxe starts at $35, state e-file $37+, with add-ons for expert review.
Jackson Hewitt
specializedReliable online tax prep with peace of mind guarantee, expert review add-ons, and mobile-friendly interface for personal use.
Hybrid online-to-office handoff, allowing users to start digitally and complete with a local Jackson Hewitt preparer if needed
Jackson Hewitt Online is a web-based tax preparation software that enables individuals to file federal and state tax returns without an EFIN, targeting DIY filers with guided step-by-step interviews. It handles common forms like W-2s, 1099s, and various deductions/credits, with options for free filing on simple returns. The platform emphasizes accuracy guarantees and refund maximization, backed by the company's network of physical tax offices.
Pros
- Free filing for simple returns including one state
- Live expert support via chat and phone
- Worry-Free Audit Support at no extra cost
Cons
- User interface appears dated and less polished than top competitors
- Pricing escalates quickly for complex situations
- Limited advanced import tools and mobile optimization
Best For
Individuals with straightforward to moderately complex tax situations seeking affordable online filing with optional in-person backup.
Pricing
Free for basic federal + one state; Deluxe starts at $40; Premium at $80; additional states $20-40 each.
1040.com
specializedStreamlined tax filing service supporting all major forms with quick processing and strong privacy features for non-EFIN filers.
Browser-based form filling with instant print-ready PDFs, no installation needed
1040.com is a web-based tax preparation tool focused on filling out IRS Form 1040 and basic schedules for users without an EFIN, allowing digital completion and printing for manual filing. It provides simple calculations and form validation without e-filing capabilities. Ideal for straightforward personal returns, it emphasizes accessibility over advanced functionality.
Pros
- No EFIN required for use
- Quick web-based access without downloads
- Supports core 1040 forms and schedules
Cons
- Lacks e-filing option
- Limited support for complex tax situations
- Basic interface with occasional glitches
Best For
Beginners or individuals with simple tax returns who prefer printing and mailing forms manually.
Pricing
Free for basic 1040 preparation; paid upgrades start at $14.95 per return for additional schedules.
OLT.com
specializedBudget online tax software with free federal filing for simple returns and accurate e-filing capabilities without professional setup.
Ultra-low pricing with no EFIN requirement, allowing cost-effective self-filing for most users
OLT.com is an affordable online tax preparation software that enables individuals to prepare and e-file federal and state tax returns without requiring an EFIN, ideal for self-filers. It supports a variety of tax situations including W-2 income, deductions, credits, self-employment, and investments through a straightforward interview-style process. The platform includes error-checking tools and audit assistance, making it accessible for non-professionals handling their own taxes.
Pros
- Very affordable pricing, especially for basic to moderate returns
- No EFIN needed, perfect for individual self-filers
- Quick e-filing with built-in accuracy checks
Cons
- Limited advanced features for highly complex tax scenarios
- Customer support is mostly self-service with minimal live help
- User interface appears somewhat dated compared to competitors
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals with straightforward to moderately complex tax returns who want to file independently without professional credentials.
Pricing
Free federal filing for simple returns (AGI under $100K in some cases); deluxe federal + state starts at $14.99-$49.99 depending on complexity.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, the top three deliver exceptional no EFIN tax filing, with TurboTax leading for its comprehensive guidance and live support. H&R Block stands out for user-friendliness and accuracy guarantees, while TaxSlayer excels with affordability and strength in complex returns. Each offers unique value, ensuring a fit for diverse needs.
Start the process with TurboTax, the top-ranked tool, to enjoy a seamless, refund-focused experience. For those prioritizing simplicity or budget, H&R Block and TaxSlayer remain excellent alternatives, ensuring you find the right solution for your tax filing journey.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison