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About FreeTaxUSA
This profile has not been claimed by the company. See reviews below to learn more or submit your own review.
FreeTaxUSA is an online tax preparation software that the IRS authorizes as an e-file provider. It is owned by TaxHawk, which offers similar tax e-filing services with the addition of a professional support upgrade. FreeTaxUSA is based in Utah and is 100% American-run. Its flat-fee pricing structure applies to every filer no matter their tax situation.
Pros & Cons
- Flat-fee pricing
- Free file extension
- No advance refund loans
- No phone customer support
What is FreeTaxUSA?
FreeTaxUSA is an e-file tax service that handles almost any tax situation for a flat fee. Whether you are a basic filer, student, homeowner, service member or self-employed, you can file your federal taxes for free. State taxes cost an additional $14.99 at the time of publishing.
While FreeTaxUSA does not come with in-person services or one-on-one help, its upgraded Deluxe package is worth the additional $7.99, especially if you end up needing to make amendments or need audit support after you file.
FreeTaxUSA can file your federal taxes and your state taxes. The company is familiar with 350 credits and deductions to include in your return. However, it does have some limitations in terms of the types of tax situations it can handle, such as foreign income, nonresident alien returns and donations of high-value property over $5,000.
How does FreeTaxUSA work?
Using FreeTaxUSA is similar to using other guided tax software. Once you sign up for an account, you will be taken through several questions to help you connect to the right tax forms. You do not need to pay anything until you are ready to submit. You will also have the option to mail in your tax return if you do not want to e-file.
With FreeTaxUSA, you can upload your W-2 and previous tax information, even if it is from a competitor. If you used FreeTaxUSA in the past, you will also be able to auto-fill from your previous year’s return.
FreeTaxUSA packages
FreeTaxUSA offers simplified tax packages, so you don’t have to wonder if you are signing up for the right service. Both plans cover most filers and tax situations. Both plans also include the option for a free tax deadline extension. Prices listed below are accurate as of the publishing date.
Free version
The free version has no charge to file federally and a $14.99 fee for a state filing. You can choose to only file one or the other with the program, too.
Deluxe version
For an additional $7.99, you can receive live chat support, unlimited amendments and audit support. At this level, federal filing is still free, and state filing costs $14.99.
FreeTaxUSA pricing
FreeTaxUSA uses a flat-fee structure, which helps tax filers avoid nasty tax bills at the end of filing. It is free to file a federal return and costs $14.99 to add on a state filing at the time of publishing. For $7.99, users can upgrade to the Deluxe program, which comes with unlimited amendments, audit support and live chat support.
Amended tax returns cost $15.98 to file if you did not purchase the Deluxe version. You can choose to amend your FreeTaxUSA return or amend it from a return you completed with a different company.
Other costs you should be aware of include:
- $7.97 for a mailed printed return
- $15.99 for a professionally bound printed return
- $24.99 fee for paying with your tax refund (credit card/debit card payments have no fee)
If you need to file a prior year’s return, that is free at the federal level but costs $17.99 at the state level.
FreeTaxUSA FAQ
Does FreeTaxUSA offer a money-back guarantee?
FreeTaxUSA offers a maximum refund guarantee and a 100% calculation accuracy guarantee. The maximum refund guarantee allows you to get a refund and free amended tax returns if you find a larger refund or smaller tax liability with another online tax software. Additionally, if an error occurs due to FreeTaxUSA that causes you to pay penalties or interest, the company will refund those costs.
How soon will I get my refund with FreeTaxUSA?
As soon as 24 hours after the IRS accepts your file, you can monitor your federal return through the IRS website. FreeTaxUSA says that from its experience, most customers get their federal refund in about seven to 14 days if they e-file and choose direct deposit.
Does FreeTaxUSA offer advance refund loans?
FreeTaxUSA does not offer any refund advance loans or prepaid cards like some of its competitors.
Can I just file my federal tax with FreeTaxUSA and skip the state?
Yes. Simply don’t select to order the state return once you reach the “Order Products” screen. Alternatively, you can choose to submit only your state return with FreeTaxUSA.
Do we recommend FreeTaxUSA?
FreeTaxUSA is a trustworthy tax company that has been in business for over two decades and has helped file over 50 million tax returns with the IRS. If you need more hands-on tax help, you might consider its parent company, TaxHawk, which has an additional expert package available.
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FreeTaxUSA Company Information
- Company Name:
- FreeTaxUSA
- Website:
- www.freetaxusa.com