FreeTaxUSA review

FreeTaxUSA is the simplest way to keep tax prep cheap without being pushed into a higher tier. Its four product levels, from Basic to Self-Employed, all list a $0 federal price, so a return with rental property, stock sales or a Schedule C business costs the same as a W-2 only return. The charge comes on the state side at $15.99 per state. You can upload or photograph W-2s and 1099s, pull in a prior year return from another provider, and file an extension at no cost. Free help runs through email and the account message center; live chat costs $7.99 through Deluxe Support, and a call with a tax pro plus a final ProCheck review costs $44.99. The interface is plainer than the big brands and gives less hand holding on unusual topics, but the price list is short and clear. For a typical single state filer the total is $15.99, far below what the major brands charge for itemized or self-employed returns.

Who it is for

Most people filing their own return, including homeowners, investors and freelancers, who want the lowest total cost.

Price

Federal free for every situation; state returns $15.99 each.

Federal Tax Returns Free State Tax Returns $15.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 8, 2026.

Key features

• Free federal return on every tier: Basic, Advanced, Premium and Self-Employed
• W-2 and 1099 import from a photo or uploaded file
• Import of a prior year return from TurboTax, H&R Block or others
• Free tax extension, printable return and e-file
• Optional Deluxe Support at $7.99 with live chat and unlimited amended returns

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Rental income, investments and self-employment are covered at no federal charge
• Strength: Upfront price list for every add-on
• Strength: Free account rollover from year to year
• Weakness: Each state return costs $15.99
• Weakness: Free support is email and in-app messages only
• Weakness: Paying with your refund adds $24.99

Key facts

• Federal return: Free for all situations
• State return: $15.99 each
• Amended return: $16.98
• Audit Defense: $19.99
• Pro Support: $44.99

Where it ranks

FreeTaxUSA is No. 1 in our Best Tax Software verdict.