Quick Summary
FreeTaxUSA lives up to its name: every federal return is free, regardless of complexity. Investments, self-employment, rental income, itemized deductions — all free. The only charge is $14.99 for state filing, making it far and away the best value in tax software. While the interface isn't as polished as premium competitors, the accuracy matches the big brands, and the price can't be beaten.
Score Breakdown
What We Like
- ✓ Free federal filing for ALL situations
- ✓ State filing only $14.99
- ✓ Handles complex returns (investments, rental, self-employed)
- ✓ Accuracy guarantee included
- ✓ Prior year import available
What Could Improve
- ✗ Interface is basic and utilitarian
- ✗ No photo W-2 import
- ✗ Limited live support (email only)
- ✗ No mobile app
Features
FreeTaxUSA supports all federal tax forms and schedules at no cost. Covers W-2, 1099, investments, rental income, self-employment, and itemized deductions. Accuracy guarantee backs every return. Deluxe upgrade ($7.99) adds priority support, amended returns, and audit assist. Prior year returns can be imported. Extension filing available.
Pricing
Federal filing is always free, regardless of complexity — this alone saves $50-$130 compared to TurboTax. State filing is $14.99. Deluxe upgrade for priority support and audit assist is $7.99. A complete complex return with state and Deluxe costs just $22.98 — less than TurboTax's cheapest paid tier.
Usability
FreeTaxUSA's interface is functional but plain. Don't expect the conversational, hand-holding approach of TurboTax. Questions are direct and forms-oriented. Experienced filers will navigate it quickly; first-timers may want more guidance. The web-only approach (no mobile app) is a limitation for some. Data entry is manual — no photo import.
Key Specifications
| Starting Price | Free federal |
| Free Filing | All federal returns |
| State Filing | $14.99/state |
| Expert Help | Email only (Deluxe) |
| Accuracy Guarantee | Yes |
| Audit Support | Deluxe ($7.99) |
| Import | Prior year import, manual entry |
Final Verdict
FreeTaxUSA is the best value in tax software, period. If you're comfortable with basic tax preparation and don't need a premium interface, there's no rational reason to pay $100+ elsewhere for the same outcome. The free federal filing covers every situation, and the $14.99 state price is a fraction of competitors. Budget-conscious filers, this is your pick.