FreeTaxUSA Review 2025 – (What Every User Must Know)

When filing your taxes online, choosing the right service is crucial to ensure both accuracy and efficiency.

FreeTaxUSA is one of the most popular tax preparation tools available, providing an affordable solution for individuals and small businesses.

As a certified tax expert, I tested FreeTaxUSA to see what they offer in terms of features, pricing, customer service, and turnaround times to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.

What Is FreeTaxUSA?

FreeTaxUSA is an online tax preparation software that allows you to file your federal and state taxes quickly and efficiently.

The platform offers both free and paid plans, with features that cater to simple and more complex tax situations.

In 2024, approximately 94% of individual federal tax returns in the United States are expected to be prepared using tax software like FreeTaxUSA [1].

It’s known for its affordability, making it a popular choice for those who want to file their taxes without breaking the bank.

FreeTaxUSA provides a straightforward user interface and step-by-step guidance, so you don’t have to be a tax expert to use it.

The software also offers a variety of tools to help you maximize your deductions and credits, ensuring that you’re not leaving money on the table.

Whether you’re a first-time filer or a seasoned pro, FreeTaxUSA is designed to make the process as simple and efficient as possible.

FreeTaxUSA Review Ratings

In this section, we’ll dive into the key aspects of FreeTaxUSA, evaluating its pricing, customer service, turnaround time, and features to give you a comprehensive understanding of its overall performance.

Pricing - 4.7/5

When it comes to pricing, FreeTaxUSA stands out for its affordability. The basic federal tax filing service is completely free, which is a huge plus for anyone with a simple tax situation.

If you need to file state taxes, the cost is usually around $14.99 per state, which is also relatively inexpensive compared to other tax software providers.

For more complex tax situations, you may opt for the Deluxe version, which includes additional features such as priority support and more advanced tax forms.

While FreeTaxUSA is certainly budget-friendly, the pricing structure may not be ideal for everyone, particularly those who require more extensive support or more advanced features.

Still, for those with straightforward filing needs, the free and low-cost options make FreeTaxUSA a solid choice.

Customer Service - 4.9/5

FreeTaxUSA excels when it comes to customer service. They offer excellent support through live chat, email, and phone options, with most responses coming on time.

Their customer service team is highly rated by users for being knowledgeable, professional, and patient.

In addition to live support, FreeTaxUSA offers a comprehensive help center with detailed guides, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and troubleshooting resources.

If you’re stuck at any point during your tax filing, you can easily find the information you need without having to wait for an agent.

Having used the service myself, I found their customer support to be incredibly responsive and helpful when I had questions about specific tax forms.

Their team ensured I understood the filing process and even provided clarity on complex deductions, making it a stress-free experience.

Privacy and Security - 4.6/5

FreeTaxUSA takes your privacy and security seriously, using encryption and multi-factor authentication to safeguard your sensitive information. Your data is stored securely, and the platform adheres to strict privacy standards to ensure it is protected against unauthorized access.

From my experience, I felt confident entering personal and financial information, as the system continuously emphasized its security protocols.

While no online platform is entirely immune to breaches, FreeTaxUSA’s practices, such as SSL encryption and account activity monitoring, align with industry standards, providing peace of mind during the tax filing process.

Features - 4.2/5

FreeTaxUSA offers a robust set of features that make filing taxes easier and more efficient. Some of the standout features include free federal filing and state filing for all 50 states.

They automatically search for eligible deductions and credits, helping you reduce your taxable income and maximize your refund.

Their Deluxe plan includes audit support, which can be a huge relief if you’re selected for an IRS audit. The user interface is clean and easy to navigate, with step-by-step instructions guiding you through every return section.

The software explains each section well, so you can understand what’s required without feeling overwhelmed.

User Ratings - 4.4/5

FreeTaxUSA has a 4.3 out of 5 user rating, with customers praising its affordability, efficiency, and overall user experience. Many appreciate the transparent pricing and straightforward process, making it a popular choice for filing federal and state taxes.

Ease of Use - 4.3/5

FreeTaxUSA stands out for its user-friendly interface that simplifies tax filing, even for those new to the process. The platform offers step-by-step guidance with clear instructions, ensuring users can confidently navigate their tax returns.

Its straightforward design makes it easy to input information and understand deductions and credits, making tax season less daunting.

LLC Service Features And Prices

These are the core services that FreeTaxUSA offers:

• Federal Tax Returns ($0 + State $14.99): This package is for students, business owners and self-employed individuals. It comes with an E-File, customer support, printable tax returns, a 7-year backup plan, tax extension, stock, and crypto upload, W-2 import, returning user import, and competitor return import. 
• State Tax Returns  ($14.99): This package automatically imports information from your federal return, e-files your state return, and helps maximize your state tax refund.
• Deluxe ($7.99): Includes a live chat feature that allows you to connect with experienced support agents who are ready to assist you with any questions or concerns. Additionally, this package offers unlimited amended returns, ensuring that you can make corrections to your filed tax return at no extra cost.

Additional Services

In this section, we’ll explore the additional services FreeTaxUSA offers, to help you determine if they add value to your filing experience.

• Audit Defense ($19.99)
• Pro Support ($39.99)
• State Prior Year Returns ($17.99)
• Professionally Printed Return ($7.97)
• Professionally Bound Return ($15.97)
• Unlimited amended return ($15.98)

Benefits of FreeTaxUSA

Having used FreeTaxUSA for my own tax filing, I can attest to the ease and affordability it offers. Here are some of the key benefits that make it stand out:

• Affordable Pricing: FreeTaxUSA offers some of the most budget-friendly tax filing options, with a free federal filing option and competitive paid-tier filing for state returns and premium features.
• User-Friendly Interface: The platform is easy to navigate, making it accessible for both first-time filers and experienced users, with step-by-step guidance throughout the process. It also includes a self-employed tier, specifically designed for freelancers and small business owners, and offers the option to link your bank account for faster refunds and direct deposit.
• Maximized Refunds: The software helps identify potential deductions and credits, ensuring that you get the maximum refund possible for both federal and state taxes. However, while it’s accurate in most cases, occasional calculation errors can occur, so it’s important to double-check your entries and review your return before filing.
• Live Chat Support: You can access live chat support from experienced agents who can assist with questions or issues in real-time, providing personalized guidance when needed.
• Unlimited Amended Returns: If you need to make corrections after filing, FreeTaxUSA allows unlimited amended returns at no additional cost, giving you peace of mind.
• Multiple Filing Options: Whether you're filing as an individual, joint filer, or need to report self-employment income, FreeTaxUSA supports various tax situations, making it versatile for a wide range of users.

Downsides of FreeTaxUSA

While FreeTaxUSA is a strong contender for tax filing, there are a few areas that might not suit everyone. Here's a quick look at some potential downsides:

• Limited Free Features for State Returns: While federal filing is free, some state tax returns require an additional fee, which may not be ideal for those looking for a completely free filing experience.
• Basic Customer Support Options: Though live chat support is available, other contact options like phone support are limited, which could be a drawback for those who prefer more direct communication.
• Lack of In-Depth Tax Guidance: While FreeTaxUSA offers basic guidance, it may not provide the in-depth advice needed for complex tax situations, meaning you might need additional resources or professional help.

Who Should Use FreeTaxUSA?

FreeTaxUSA is ideal for a variety of taxpayers. Here’s who could benefit most:

• Individuals with Simple Tax Situations: If you have a straightforward tax return, like a W-2 and standard deductions, FreeTaxUSA’s free federal filing option is perfect for you.
• Budget-Conscious Filers: Those looking for an affordable tax filing solution will appreciate FreeTaxUSA’s low-cost pricing, especially for those who don’t need advanced features.
• Small Business Owners or Freelancers: If you’re self-employed or run a small business, FreeTaxUSA offers features that can help you file your taxes accurately, including support for business deductions.
• Anyone Who Needs Amended Returns: If you anticipate needing to amend your tax returns, FreeTaxUSA’s unlimited amended returns are a great benefit, saving you money and hassle.

FreeTaxUSA Customer Testimonials

FreeTaxUSA Alternatives

While FreeTaxUSA offers a solid, affordable tax filing solution, there are several other options available. Let’s briefly compare it with three popular alternatives:

TaxSlayer

TaxSlayer stands out as a highly affordable tax filing tool with a range of features that cater to various tax situations, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a great value.

While FreeTaxUSA offers a simpler experience at a slightly lower price, TaxSlayer offers more robust options, especially for self-employed individuals or those with more complex tax needs, such as deductions and business-related expenses.

While the user interface might take a little getting used to, TaxSlayer compensates with fantastic customer support and competitive pricing that outshines many other options.

If you're looking for a balance of affordability, functionality, and great customer service, TaxSlayer is the superior choice, offering versatile features that make it perfect for a wide range of tax situations.

H&R Block 

H&R Block is a more well-known tax service that offers both online and in-person filing.

While FreeTaxUSA is more affordable, H&R Block provides more hands-on support, especially for complex tax situations. H&R Block’s user interface is also a bit more polished, but its pricing is higher, particularly for state returns and premium features.

If you prefer in-person help or need extensive tax guidance, H&R Block may be a better fit, though it comes with a steeper price tag.

Additionally, H&R Block offers a robust mobile app for filing on the go, which is a convenient feature. Overall, H&R Block is ideal for those who prioritize expert assistance and advanced features over cost.

TurboTax

TurboTax is one of the most popular tax software services, known for its user-friendly interface and premium features. It’s a great option if you want the most comprehensive assistance, including live chat and expert reviews.

However, TurboTax is considerably more expensive than FreeTaxUSA, especially when it comes to filing state taxes and accessing advanced features.

TurboTax’s interface is sleek and intuitive, making it a favorite for first-time users, though its pricing can quickly add up as you move to higher tiers.

It also provides a higher level of customer service, including the option to have a tax professional review your return, which may be appealing if you need extra peace of mind.

For those who don’t mind paying a premium for convenience and support, TurboTax is a solid alternative.

FAQs

Our Verdict on FreeTaxUSA

While FreeTaxUSA is an affordable option for simple tax situations, it may fall short if you're looking for more personalized support or handling complex tax returns.

For those needing a great balance of affordability, excellent customer service, and the flexibility to handle more complex tax situations, TaxSlayer is a much better choice.

With its competitive pricing, solid support options, and comprehensive features, TaxSlayer is the ideal solution for anyone looking for a user-friendly yet powerful tax filing experience.

Reference

1. https://taxfoundation.org/data/all/federal/irs-tax-compliance-costs/