FreeTaxUSA Deluxe is a more comprehensive option for users with complex tax situations due to its support for all major IRS forms and schedules, straightforward pricing, and robust customer support. Credit Karma Tax (Intuit), while offering a straightforward authentication process for Credit Karma members and mobile app availability, may not be suitable for complex tax situations and has limited customer support channels. Credit Karma Tax has also been integrated into TurboTax.
| Attribute | FreeTaxUSA Deluxe | Credit Karma Tax (Intuit) |
|---|---|---|
| Price for state filing | $14.99 | Pricing depends on the user's tax situation and the package they select. State returns may cost an additional fee. |
| Audit support availability | Audit assistance is available with the Deluxe version. It includes access to audit specialists and the Audit Center, a database of information to help with the audit process. However, it doesn't provide representation during an audit or direct correspondence with the IRS on your behalf. This assistance applies only to federal returns, not state. | Audit Defense is available, potentially with special offers for Credit Karma members filing through TurboTax. Previously, Credit Karma Tax included free Audit Defense for federal and state returns. |
| Accuracy guarantee terms | FreeTaxUSA guarantees the accuracy of its tax calculations. If the software makes an error, they will reimburse penalties and/or interest imposed by the IRS or your state. This guarantee does not cover user-generated errors, such as data entry mistakes. To claim, you must notify FreeTaxUSA as soon as you become aware of the error, and no later than 45 days after the penalty or interest is assessed. | Intuit offers a 100% Accurate, Expert Approved Guarantee and a Maximum Refund Guarantee. If you get a larger refund or smaller tax due from another tax preparation method, Intuit will refund the applicable purchase price. |
| Import capabilities from other tax software | FreeTaxUSA allows you to import a PDF of a return prepared with a competing product. Users can also import from TaxAct, TurboTax, and H&R Block. | Credit Karma Tax supported importing returns from TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct. |
| Form availability (e.g., Schedule C, Schedule D) | FreeTaxUSA supports all major IRS forms and schedules, including Schedule C. Both the Free and Deluxe versions support complex tax returns, including self-employment income, property rental income, and capital gains and losses. | Some tax forms and schedules supported by competitors might not have been included. Certain tax situations, such as foreign tax credits and more than one state return, could not be handled. |
| User interface intuitiveness | The software has an intuitive user interface that is easy to navigate. It is user-friendly, making it simple to input financial data and generate accurate tax returns. Step-by-step guidance ensures that even those unfamiliar with tax filing can proceed with confidence. | Credit Karma members will find a straightforward authentication process that links their existing account to TurboTax. |
| Customer support channels (phone, email, chat) | FreeTaxUSA offers customer support via email, live chat, and an extensive knowledge base. Deluxe users get priority support with live chat and access to a searchable Q&A database. Pro Support users can get personalized assistance from tax pros through phone calls, live screen share or a live chat feature. | Details on specific customer support channels for Credit Karma Tax are limited, but Intuit offers tax expert assistance for an additional cost. |
| Mobile app availability and features | FreeTaxUSA has an excellent mobile website. | Users can file their taxes with TurboTax right from the Credit Karma app. |
| Data security measures | FreeTaxUSA uses SSL encryption to protect sensitive information. They comply with data security standards to protect against theft of payment information. The site supports multi-factor authentication. They actively monitor and test their systems to ensure data security. | Credit Karma uses 128-bit or higher encryption to protect data during transmission and encrypts data at rest. They have a dedicated security team and work with third parties to assess their site for vulnerabilities. |
| Maximum refund guarantee | FreeTaxUSA guarantees you'll get your maximum refund using their service. If you get a larger refund or smaller tax liability with another online tax software, they will refund your purchase and provide a service code for a free amended tax return. | Intuit offers a Maximum Refund Guarantee. |
| Ease of use for complex tax situations | FreeTaxUSA supports complex topics like home deductions and credits, investment sales, and rental income. It is a good choice even if your return goes beyond W-2 income. | Credit Karma Tax may not be suitable for complex tax situations. |
| Educational resources and tax tips | FreeTaxUSA offers comprehensive training resources and implementation assistance to help users get started quickly and efficiently. The site's online community includes help articles and discussions. | Credit Karma provides articles to help users learn about filing taxes. |