Credit Karma Tax is the better option for users looking for a completely free tax filing service with the ability to import prior year's tax data. Jackson Hewitt Online may be preferred by those who value multiple customer support channels and are willing to pay a flat fee.
| Attribute | Credit Karma Tax (Intuit) | Jackson Hewitt Online |
|---|---|---|
| Free filing eligibility | Free federal and state tax filing for Credit Karma members in the U.S. Supported most IRS forms and schedules; no specific income limits. | Jackson Hewitt Online does not offer a free filing option. |
| State tax filing fees | Free | Free |
| Accuracy guarantee and audit support | Accurate Calculations Guarantee, reimbursing filers up to $1,000 in the form of gift card(s) if the IRS or state tax authority imposed penalties or interest due to a calculation error. Free Audit Defense. | Accuracy Guarantee: Jackson Hewitt will cover IRS penalties and/or interest resulting from an error in their online software's calculations. Jackson Hewitt offers IRS audit assistance. |
| User interface and ease of navigation | Clean and simple to navigate for some users. | Jackson Hewitt has some navigation quirks that can cost you time and create frustration. Every time you log in, it takes you right back to the beginning instead of asking if you want to start where you left off. The site also doesn't auto-save every page like most competitors do. |
| Import capabilities | Import prior year's 1040 from H&R Block, TurboTax, or TaxAct. | Jackson Hewitt Online does not allow users to import tax information from other tax software. Filers can't import forms into the software, including past year tax returns filed with competitors, and must manually enter their information. |
| Deduction finder and tax credit optimization | Automatically identifies potential deductions based on user's financial information. Credit finder tool to uncover eligible tax credits and rebates. | Jackson Hewitt Tax Pros work on your return until every credit and deduction is accounted for to get you back every dollar you deserve. |
| Mobile app availability and features | File taxes entirely from mobile devices. | Jackson Hewitt has a mobile version of their website, but the company doesn publish standalone apps. The mobile version mirrors the desktop version. |
| Customer support channels | 24/7 chat support during tax season. | Jackson Hewitt provides customer support through phone, live chat, and in-person assistance at their locations. |
| Data security and privacy measures | 128-bit or higher encryption to protect data during transmission and encrypted data at rest. Dedicated security team and worked with third parties for security assessments. | Jackson Hewitt uses security measures that comply with federal law to protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings. |
| Refund processing options | Not available | Direct deposit, Check, Serve American Express Reloadable Prepaid Card. |
| Availability of advanced features | Supported itemization, business income, and stock filings. | Jackson Hewitt supports all major IRS forms and schedules, so you should be able to complete complex returns that involve self-employment and investment income. |
| Price and subscription tiers | Completely free | $25 flat fee (includes federal and state returns) |