TaxAct

TaxAct is probably the best of the “discount” tax preparation services. Their platform will feel a little outdated at times and it can take a few extra minutes to complete your return, but they are the most affordable if you need to file additional forms or want additional services like phone support or the ability to access your return for the next seven years that both come free with any plan.

How Much Does TaxAct Cost?

TaxAct has the three pricing plans along with the ability to file your state return with a simple federal tax return.

  • Free: $0 Federal & $0 State
    • Cannot itemize for free
    • Prior year data import cost $15.99
  • Plus: $27 Federal & $33 State
    • Must use to itemize (Schedule A) and can also file Schedule D (Investment Income) & Schedule E (Rental Property Income)
  • Freelance: $39 Federal & $33 State
    • Use to File Schedule C (Self-Employment)
  • Premium: $51 Federal & $33 State
    • Audit Protection

Pros

  • Free Federal & State return for non-itemized simple 1040EZ & 1040A returns
  • Provides phone support & 7 years of online access for free
  • Cheapest way to file a Schedule C, D, or E form of the “Big Three” online tax software

Cons

  • The least user-friendly platform of the recommendations listed in this article that requires more manual data entry, but still easy to use.
  • Most pay to import prior-year data with their 100% free plan (H&R Block includes this perk)

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