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TaxAct is a free federal tax preparation and electronic filing program for eligible taxpayers developed through a partnership between the IRS and a group of tax software companies. They are leading provider of affordable digital and downloadable tax software for individuals. All forms are IRS and State approved.
TaxAct's user interface isn't fancy or attractive but it works. It has all the basics needed to complete your taxes. The mobile app is even more basic. If you need a tax return for married or joint filing, you'll have to log online to complete.
With TaxAct, you have access to an online knowledge-base to search for answers to your specific tax issues. Unlike other competitors, you don't have the Q&A assistance, but you do have access to free phone and email support.
Free phone support is a definite bonus to get more specific advise. During tax season, you'll have access to phone support seven days a week and late evenings during the week.
TaxAct offers a free tax software for basic filings, but if you need to upgrade you can do that in the middle of the process. You won't have to restart.
TaxAct offers audit support through an FAQ page. You have the option of buying servie through Protection Plus that covers three years of audit services for this year's return.
You can get your refund through direct deposit into a bank account which is the fastest option. Or you can wait for a check in the mail. Additionally, you can apply your refund to next year's taxes or direct the IRS to buy US Savings Bonds.
Ever plan comes with unlimited phone tax and email support. Having the most basic return, the software is completely free. However, if you need to claim deductions or credits you'll need to upgrade.
TaxAct also offers price lock guarantee. Once you've paid for a product, and the price goes up, your locked to the lowest price.
Plan |
Free |
Plus |
Freelancer |
Premium |
---|---|---|---|---|
Best For |
1040EZ and 1040A filers with simple returns |
Homeowners, itemizers, and filers with investments |
Independent contractors and self-employed filers |
All types of filers seeking ultimate peace of mind |
Federal Pricing |
$0 |
|
|
|
State Pricing |
$0 (optional prior year import $15) |
$37.00 (prior year import included) |
$37.00 (prior year import included) |
$37.00 (prior year import included) |
Total Cost |
$0 |
$54.50 |
$64.30 |
$72.70 |
TaxAct® | H&R Block® | TurboTax® | |
---|---|---|---|
Simple Federal + State Returns (1040EZ/A) | $0 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
|
Upgrade Required | Upgrade Required | |
|
Upgrade Required | Upgrade Required | |
Investments | $17.50 | $54.99 | $59.99 |
Self-Employed & Business Forms | $27.30 | $74.99 | $89.99 |
Complex State Returns | $37 each | $36.99 each | $36.99 each |
Price Lock Guarantee | Not Available | Not Available |
Pricing as of 12/11/2017. Actual savings will vary based on each person's tax situation. The comparison does not include free products. Additional fees apply for state returns.
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phroogal –
TaxAct has gotten its act together and made big improvements to their online tax preparation software. Its no-frills design may not impress many but the low cost makes it competitive.
Unfortunately, you don’t get the question and answer feature many tax preparation software offers, but inputting your data is pretty easy. With TaxAct, you get tools to help you fill out your taxes along with free email and phone support.
Should you use TaxAct?
TaxAct is a good software for people who have the traditional W-2 job and don’t have complex returns. TaxAct’s improvement will make past users smile. With their 100% accuracy guarantee, unlimited access to certified public accountants and technology support, you can have peace of mind. If you need more personal support and want to speak with professionals than TaxAct is a better option for you.