TurboTax Premium 2025 is a comprehensive tax software with a user-friendly interface, extensive import capabilities, and multiple support channels, making it suitable for users with complex tax situations. However, FreeTaxUSA Deluxe offers a budget-friendly alternative with essential features and accuracy guarantee, making it a good choice for users with simpler tax needs.
| Attribute | TurboTax Premium 2025 | FreeTaxUSA Deluxe |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139 for federal filing. State returns are $64 each. | $7.99 for Deluxe federal filing. State returns are $14.99 per state. Free option available for basic federal filing. |
| Accuracy Guarantee | Guarantees 100% accurate calculations, and will pay any IRS penalties if there are calculation errors. | Offers an accuracy guarantee, reimbursing penalties and/or interest imposed by the IRS or state if the software's calculations are incorrect (excluding user errors). |
| Audit Support | Offers audit support. TurboTax MAX includes audit defense. | Includes audit assistance. Audit defense is available as a separate add-on for $19.99. |
| Ease of Use (User Interface) | User-friendly interface, guiding users through the tax filing process with a question-and-answer format. | Clean interface with a question-and-answer format. Some find it easy to use, while others find it text-heavy and not as user-friendly as premium software. |
| Import Capabilities | Import W-2s and 1099s by uploading a file or taking a photo. Some forms can be added by linking directly to your bank or brokerage account. Investment transaction imports are flexible, allowing import of up to 10,000 stock trades and 20,000 cryptocurrency transactions. | Upload W-2 forms from computer or by taking a picture. Upload previous year's tax return. Import from TaxAct, TurboTax, and H&R Block. Other forms require manual data entry. |
| Deduction Finder/Maximizer | Searches for over 450 deductions and credits to find tax breaks you qualify for. It helps identify industry-specific deductions for self-employed individuals. | Includes a Refund Maximizer that reviews your return and suggests potential deductions. |
| Customer Support Availability | Offers phone, chat, and video support. You can connect with experts via the Live Assisted service for questions and a final review of your return. | Basic (Free): Email support and in-app support center. Deluxe: Priority support with live chat and unlimited amended returns. Pro Support: Personal tax advice, phone support, and live screen share with a tax professional. |
| Mobile App Availability and Features | Offers capable mobile apps. You can snap a photo of your W-2, and the app will put your info in the right places. | No dedicated mobile app. Website is accessible and functions well on mobile web browsers. |
| Schedule C Support (Self-Employment Income) | Covers all forms needed to report self-employment income. It is designed for freelancers and gig workers and can help with necessary tax forms and determine if the IRS requires Schedule SE. | Supports Schedule C with questions about forms 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC. |
| Investment Income Reporting | Seamlessly reports income from investments, rental property, freelance, and self-employment. It helps you report sales of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, plus calculate capital gains/losses. | Supports various types of investment income. |
| Tax Planning Tools | Includes a year-round tax estimator to help you plan your taxes throughout the year. It provides tips for maximizing your tax refund for the following year. | Provides question-and-answer guidance and section summaries. |
| Ratings | Not available | Not available |