Prices range from $39-$159 based on the complexity of your tax return. There is also the option to add on other services, like an Audit Defense, which ensures you will have representation in the event that your return is audited. The idea of free tax filing software sounds too good to be true, and that’s because sometimes it is.
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For the paid do-it-yourself plans, each state return costs up to $39 (or $64 during peak tax season). If you want someone to represent you in front of the IRS, you’ll need TurboTax’s audit defense product, called MAX. It runs an extra $39.99 and includes features such as identity theft monitoring, loss insurance and restoration help.
- TurboTax generally costs more than other tax-preparation services.
- Are you an independent contractor, freelancer, or business owner?
- We put TurboTax to the test to see how it handles different tax forms and different financial situations.
- You’ll be prompted to answer some questions about your tax situation, enter your ZIP code and indicate that you want to meet in person.
- Anything more than that, like itemized deductions on Schedule A, stock sales or rental property income, will likely make you not qualify for the free service.
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- You can verify the latest price by clicking through to each provider’s site.
- Within the mobile app, you can take a photo of your income documents and upload supported forms.
- TurboTax has a high-quality user interface with three online plans for DIY filers, all of which can be upgraded to include one-on-one guidance from a tax pro.
- You can only use this edition if you earn W-2 income and limited bank interest or stock dividends.
TurboTax charges up to $129 for federal tax filing ($59 per state) for its costliest do-it-yourself tax package. If you need a tax professional, such as a TurboTax expert or CPA, to review your return, TurboTax charges up to $199 for federal tax filing and an additional $64 per state. If you get stuck, TurboTax offers live, on-screen support options. You can even turn your tax return over to a tax professional to complete, although this option comes with an additional fee. Being an online platform, TurboTax strives to make your tax filing process as seamless and easy as possible.
Who Should Use TurboTax?
You’ll get a chance to confirm that the package you’re recommended is the one you would like to choose before you move on. TurboTax Free Edition supports a simple Form 1040 and no schedules except for the earned income tax credit, child tax credit and student loan interest. If you want downloadable software on your computer from TurboTax for the cheapest price but you still want step-by-step guidance, Basic is the product for you. Unlike the other levels, it does not include a state e-file download. But it does allow you to transfer information from last year, claim tax credits and import your W-2 information.
If anything, Tubotax’s services cut across multiple industries and income niches. TaxSlayer provides live assistance at a cheaper rate, but only TurboTax offers full-service and in-person filing with its Verified Pro plan. The cost of tax software changes frequently, so check the TurboTax website for current pricing or promotions. TurboTax is a well-known tax software that’s easy to use but can be pricey and contra asset account has limited customer support. If you’re looking for a better deal, TaxSlayer is a great alternative.
- Once you’re connected with your pro, you’ll also get to see their credentials.
- Among other time-saving tasks, the tool searches “millions of data points” to find deductions and credits you qualify for that could reduce what you owe or boost your refund.
- TurboTax, created by Intuit, is one of the most popular tax preparation software in the U.S.
- In other words, if your tax return is simple, you probably don’t need this audit protection.
- If your taxes might require a little extra help, more than just the simple file, then you’ll want to shell out for TurboTax Live Assisted.
- Explore your TurboTax options here now to determine which version is best for you.
Yes, TurboTax allows you to upload your previous tax return to save time entering your information. You should always double-check that the data was imported correctly before moving on. Intuit has denied any wrongdoing and appealed the FTC’s decision. You upload all of your documents digitally and speak with the tax pro on a phone or video call when needed. Once complete, the tax pro signs your return and files law firm chart of accounts it on your behalf. The Free Edition is available to filers with W-2 income, qualified retirement distributions, and limited 1099 interest and dividends.
FreeTaxUSA doesn’t offer dedicated mobile apps, but the service does a good job of optimizing its regular site for phone screens. You just sign in through a mobile web browser and go through the same sequence of pages as on the desktop. The experience replicates the desktop version, of course, and I appreciate the smart, sleek design. Both TurboTax and FreeTaxUSA also have massive, searchable databases of tax information.