FreeTaxUSA Deluxe is a better option for users who need to file more complex tax returns or who want audit assistance included. TaxSlayer Simply Free is suitable for those with simple tax situations and who qualify for the income limit.
| Attribute | TaxSlayer Simply Free | FreeTaxUSA Deluxe |
|---|---|---|
| Federal and State Filing Costs | Federal filing is free for those who qualify. One free state return is included. Additional state returns cost extra. The price for additional state returns can vary. | Federal filing is free for all situations. State returns are $14.99 each. |
| Supported Tax Forms | Supports Form 1040 for simple tax situations. It also supports student loan interest and education expenses. | Supports all major IRS forms and schedules, including Schedule C, investment sales, rental income, Form 1099-LTC, and Form 1116. |
| Ease of Use (User Interface) | User-friendly interface. Offers a guided filing option. Some find the interface clunky compared to more established competitors. | Clean and straightforward interface with a question-and-answer format. May be less intuitive than TurboTax and H&R Block for some users. |
| Accuracy Guarantee | 100% accuracy in calculations guaranteed. Reimbursement of penalties and interest charges resulting from calculation errors. | 100% accuracy guarantee. Reimburses penalties and interest resulting from software miscalculations. |
| Audit Support | Access to a tax professional for audit assistance requires upgrading to the Premium or Self-Employed options. | Includes audit assistance. Audit defense is available for an additional $19.99. |
| Import Capabilities | Upload a prior year return from another tax service. W-2 importing is available in the Classic version and higher. | Imports prior-year returns from TurboTax, H&R Block, or TaxAct. Allows W-2 form uploads. Does not support importing 1099 forms. |
| Deduction Finder/Maximizer | Helps find potential tax credits and deductions. | Looks for over 350 credits and deductions. Includes a 'Refund Maximizer'. |
| Mobile App Availability and Features | Free mobile app available. File returns from your smartphone or tablet. | No dedicated mobile apps. Interface is designed to display correctly on smartphones and tablets. |
| Customer Support Options | Unlimited phone and email support included, limited to technical support. Access to a tax professional requires an upgrade. | Email support and a self-service help center. Deluxe users get priority support and live chat. Pro Support offers personal tax advice, phone support, and live screen sharing. |
| Data Security and Privacy Measures | Uses firewalls, intrusion detection systems, encryption, and access controls to protect your information. | Uses SSL encryption and two-factor authentication. Complies with data security standards and reviews privacy practices annually. |
| Maximum Income Limit for Free Version | Taxable income must be $100,000 or less to qualify. | No income limit to use the free federal filing. |
| Availability of Prior Year Returns | You can upload prior year returns. | Allows you to file amended returns for previous years. Data collected is retained for a maximum of eight years. |