In-depth, Independent Research
Preparing your taxes online is easy, secure, and much cheaper than using an accountant. We've reviewed a number of services that will help you prepare your state and federal tax returns online and e-file them with the IRS. Each service offers web-based preparation tools that will walk you through each step of the process. Our comparison chart is designed to help you determine which online tax service is best suited to your individual needs, whether you have a complex return with many specialized deductions, or if you simply need a cheap and easy way to file your 1040EZ form. To learn more about online tax preparation services, visit our FAQ.
Online Tax Preparation and Filing Reviews & Prices
Updated 04-03-2013
| Service Name & Rating: | Online Federal Tax Products: | Federal Only Fees: | State Only Fees: | Support Options: | Audit Protection: | Bottom Line: |
 | Free Federal: Free Basic: $16.96 Deluxe: $25.46 Premium: $42.46 | Free for everyone, upgraded services $16.96 - $42.46 | $27.95 - $34.95 | Unlimited access to online help center; Single consultation with tax professional with purchase of Premium edition | Yes; 'Worry Free Audit Support' guarantees assistance from an H&R Block tax professional in the case of an audit | Best overall service provider due to Free Federal Return, good support and audit protection; 15% discount on all plans |
 | Free Federal: Free Basic: $19.99 Deluxe: $29.99 Premier: $49.99 Home & Business: $74.99 | Free if filing simple returns, otherwise $19.99 - $74.99 | $36.99 | Phone, online chat or email plus access to live community Q&A | Yes | Easiest to use service with best online deduction finder tools |
 | Free Federal: Free Deluxe: $9.95 | Free for everyone $9.95 for Deluxe | $14.95 with Free Federal; $8.00 with Deluxe | Unlimited email support; unlimited access to Answer Center | None | Great value for online tax preparation and filing but lacks audit protection |
 | Basic: Free Deluxe: $19.95 Premium: $39.95 | Free for everyone, upgraded services $19.95-$39.95 | $19.95 if you file with your federal return | Email and chat options | None | Standard service with a few cool extras including a Maximum Refund Guarantee |
| Service Name & Rating: | Online Federal Tax Products: | Federal Only Fees: | State Only Fees: | Support Options: | Audit Protection: | Bottom Line: |  | Federal E-file: $14.95 Basic: $19.95 Deluxe: $39.95 Premium: $69.95 | $14.95 - $69.95 | $29.95 | Unlimited access to tech support. Live chat, email, phone | Smart Coverage Audit Defense: $34.95 | Solid, streamlined service but interface and pricing are a bit confusing |
 | Free Federal: Free; Deluxe: $24.95 Premier: $49.95 | Free if filing 1040EZ, otherwise $24.95-$49.95 | $24.95 | Email only | None | Very limited support and spotty service availability; not recommended |
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