Are you looking for free tax software? Here are the 10 best ones online. We based our list on the ease of use, the features available, and the support you can get from their company.
Tax filing season is coming and we all need to think about how we are going to organize and file taxes, and of course, get the maximum refunds. Some people would hire professionals to do this specific task for them. However, if you want to save on cost, then you can also do it on your own.
Here are the most sought-after free tax software to use nowadays.
1. TurboTax Free Edition
TurboTax Free Edition is known as the most user-friendly among all the tax software available today. This software has been helping millions of people every year. That’s not surprising because navigating through it is extremely simple.
If you have a gross income lower than $34,000, go ahead and use TurboTax. But if your gross income is more than that, then you will have to pay extra. There’s even live chat support just in case you need further information or help. And lastly, your first state return can be filed for free.
2. IRS Direct Free File
You can have the full database of forms and schedules in PDF if you use IRS Direct Free. When you are using this platform, your information will be automatically saved. That means you don’t necessarily have to complete everything in one run or session. Even if you have a gross income of more than $69,000, you can still use the free file system.
3. H&R Block At Home Free Edition
It’s almost impossible not to know H&R Block considering the number of storefront outlets they have in the US. You can file for free if your gross income is not more than $69,000. This is actually a lot more than what TurboTax Free Edition allows. What we love about this software is that you can easily import last year’s tax info even from other tax tools. No wonder people call it the best tax software.
4. TaxSlayer Simply Free Edition
Are you looking for another easy-to-use free tax software? If yes, then take a look at TaxSlayer Simply Free. It’s ideal for simple tax returns so you better take advantage of that. But generally, TaxSlayer has the most affordable paid products.
So whether you want to enjoy the free version, or you want to upgrade a bit, this is one of the best choices. Another edge of TaxSlayer is that there is no residency or citizenship requirement to use their free file feature. Your first state return is also for free.
5. eztaxReturn
One of the best free tax software you can use for filing is eztaxReturn. Like most software in the list, you need to meet certain requirements to be eligible for simple returns. For this one, you must have a gross income of not more than $100,000.
Please note that those who have student loans are not qualified to file the taxes for free. The same goes if you have dependents. But just in case you need further help, their support is for free.
6. Credit Karma
Credit Karma is free for both state and federal returns. You can expect the max refund guarantee as well. In addition, we commend the website’s interface because it is mobile-friendly. But take note that this company is smaller than its competitors. Having said that, the expert support might come as a challenge.
7. TaxACT Free Edition
What are the requirements in order for you to use this free tax filing service? One, you either need to be younger than 56, qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, or have a gross income of not more than $59,000. For active military, your gross income must not be more than $69,000. The platform is also easy to understand so you won’t have much of a problem.
8. Online Taxes by OLT
You can file your federal taxes for free using this software. The case is different though for filing state returns where you need to pay additional fees for certain features. The free file service is available for everyone regardless of your age and state. We’ve also noticed a great improvement in their interface.
9. FreeTaxUSA Free Edition
This is not as popular as the companies we’ve listed above. But FreeTaxUSA is a great choice if you want to file your tax. Their amazing platform can support various forms and schedules too. You can also take advantage of the prior year return storage and importing features. Expect 100% accuracy if you use this software.
10. TaxHawk Free Edition
Do not be surprised if the features are quite similar to FreeTaxUSA. It’s because TaxHawk is their partner site. They are also an IRS-approved e-file provider so you can ensure that your data is secured.
Conclusion
Please note that these free tax software can accommodate simple tax returns. More often than not, you need to pay for additional services. Nevertheless, if you want to avoid professional fees for simple tax returns, then we recommend that you take advantage of these products. Make sure that you read the terms and clauses to avoid unexpected charges.
