Compare Popular Tax Filing Services

Explore the features, pricing, and support options of 5 leading tax preparation services. This comparison guide helps you understand the differences between DIY software, assisted filing, and full-service options to make an informed decision.

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Used by millions of taxpayers annually

256-bit encryption standard

IRS-authorized e-file providers

Tax refund of $3,847 displayed on tablet

Tax Filing Service Comparison

Each service offers different features, pricing structures, and support levels. Review the details below to understand which option aligns with your tax situation and preferences.

TurboTax

Easiest to Use • Most Comprehensive

From $0 Federal

State-of-the-art user interface
Live tax expert assistance available
Import W-2s & prior year returns
Comprehensive coverage for all tax topics
Full-service option available

★★★★★

4.8/5 (50,000+ reviews)

Get Started with TurboTax

Best Support

H&R Block

Expert Help Included • Trusted Name

From $0 Federal + State

Unlimited expert assistance via chat
Free state return included (free tier)
In-person office support available
Refund preview while you work
Handles complex situations easily

★★★★★

4.7/5 (45,000+ reviews)

Start with H&R Block

Best Value

FreeTaxUSA

100% Free Federal • Budget-Friendly

$0 Federal Forever

Free federal filing for everyone
All forms included (even complex)
State returns only $15.99
No income limits or restrictions
82M+ returns filed successfully

★★★★★

4.8/5 (600,000+ reviews)

File Free with FreeTaxUSA

TaxAct

Accuracy Guarantee • Great Balance

From $0 Federal

$100,000 accuracy guarantee
Affordable pricing across tiers
Supports complex returns
Expert assist add-on available
Maximum refund guarantee

★★★★☆

4.5/5 (30,000+ reviews)

Start with TaxAct

TaxSlayer

Affordable • All Features Included

From $0 Federal

All features at lowest-price tier
Most affordable paid packages
Import prior year data
Support for all deductions
Refund advance option

★★★★☆

4.4/5 (25,000+ reviews)

Get Started with TaxSlayer

Feature Comparison

See how the top tax services stack up side-by-side

Feature	TurboTax	H&R Block	FreeTaxUSA	TaxAct	TaxSlayer
Free Federal Filing	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Free State Return	✗	✓	✗ ($15.99)	✗	✗
Live Expert Help	✓ (add-on)	✓ (included)	✓ (add-on)	✓ (add-on)	✗
Mobile App	✓	✓	✓	✗	✓
Import W-2s	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Audit Support	✓	✓	✓ (add-on)	✓	✓ (add-on)
Accuracy Guarantee	✓	✓	✓	✓ ($100K)	✓
Average Cost (Deluxe)	$89	$55	$7	$65	$48

Industry Statistics

Key metrics about online tax filing services in the United States

50M+

Returns Filed Annually

$92B

In Refunds Processed

4.7/5

Average Rating

100%

Accuracy Guaranteed

Common Questions

Information to help you select the right tax filing service for your situation

TurboTax is widely considered the easiest for beginners due to its intuitive interface and comprehensive guidance. However, if you're on a budget, FreeTaxUSA offers a straightforward experience at no cost for federal filing.

Yes! All services listed offer free federal filing for simple tax situations (W-2 income, standard deduction). FreeTaxUSA is unique in offering free federal filing for ALL tax situations, including complex returns. State returns typically cost extra ($0-$50 depending on the service).

H&R Block includes unlimited expert assistance with all paid packages at no extra charge. TurboTax offers "TurboTax Live" where you can get help from a CPA or EA, but it's an add-on service. Both also offer full-service options where an expert prepares your entire return.

Consider three factors: (1) Budget - FreeTaxUSA and TaxSlayer are most affordable. (2) Complexity - If you have investments, rental income, or own a business, TurboTax and H&R Block handle complexity best. (3) Support needs - If you want human help, choose H&R Block for included support or TurboTax for premium expert options.

Absolutely. All services listed use bank-level 256-bit encryption and are IRS-authorized e-file providers. They undergo regular security audits and comply with strict data protection standards. Your personal information is as safe as it would be at a financial institution.

The federal tax filing deadline for 2025 is April 15, 2025. If April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day. You can request an extension until October 15, but note that an extension to file is not an extension to pay — taxes owed are still due April 15.

Compare Services and Make Your Decision

Use the information above to select a tax filing service that matches your needs. Most services offer free trials or free basic filing to help you get started.

Multiple pricing tiers available

Free options for simple returns

Expert assistance available

Review Services Above

📅 Federal tax filing deadline: April 15, 2025 (or next business day if falls on weekend/holiday)