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The 3 Best Tax Prep Software Option You Haven't Heard of But Need to Try
You don’t need a big-name tax company to file accurately or affordably. There are several lower-cost tax prep software options worth considering, and we ranked three based on their features and according to our strict ranking criteria.
Our guide highlights lesser-known tax-filing software that helps individuals and families organize, calculate, and file their taxes in one place.
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Trusted Company Reviews #1 Pick for 2026
Why we love it 💖
TaxSlayer online tax prep software offers an excellent alternative to big-name tax preparation companies and features a 100% accuracy guarantee.
Our Highest Rated Tax Prep Software Companies
- Five filing software options
- Military files for free
- State filing costs extra at most levels
- Free federal filing requires income below $100k, plus other restrictions
- Provides a 100% accuracy guarantee
- Four filing software options
- Maximum refund guarantee
- Free federal filing for many taxpayers with few restrictions
- State returns cost extra in most levels
- Online refund tracking
- Multiple filing options
- Inexpensive professional tax support
- $79,000 cap on using the free filing version
- The lowest price non-free version includes some tax help
- Gig worker and self-employment support
What Is Tax Prep Software and How Does It Work?
Tax prep software is a digital tool that helps individuals and households prepare and file their taxes electronically. Instead of filling out forms by hand or hiring an in-person preparer, users answer a series of guided questions about their income, deductions, and credits. From there, the software automatically fills out the forms, informing taxpayers of their refund or what they owe.
How Does Online Tax Prep Software Compare to In-Person Tax Services?
Online tax prep software is generally cheaper and more convenient than in-person tax services. It’s ideal for straightforward returns and those who are comfortable entering their own financial details.
However, if you have complex returns, it may be worthwhile to find a CPA in your area to help you complete your return.
Who Should Use Online Tax Prep Software?
Online tax prep software is ideal for most individual taxpayers with simple returns. It’s also great for people who are comfortable doing taxes themselves but want to have software ensure a mistake-free filing.
The Best Tax Prep Software Features
The best tax preparation software includes features and benefits that help taxpayers feel secure knowing that their taxes conform to current tax laws and that they receive the largest tax refund possible. Some standard tax prep software features include the following items.
- Low-cost options for in-person tax preparation with a tax pro
- Tax assistance with or without access to a tax professional
- Chat function or another way to get real-time answers to general technical questions
- Ability to securely e-file or print and mail federal and state tax returns
- Easy navigation and helpful tips or suggestions
- Direct deposit, debit card, or paper check refund options
Pros and Cons of the Best Tax Preparation Software
While online tax prep software can be an excellent solution for many taxpayers in various tax situations, even those with business or rental income, there are some factors to consider before choosing one or any provider option.
Pros
- Direct importing of W-2 and 1099 tax forms or an easy way to input them manually
- Recording and availability of past-year return information
- Low-cost tax assistance with a chat function or live access to tax professional
- Easier to use and navigate than paper forms
- Potential ability to discover tax breaks or tax credits you may not be aware of
- One-stop tax preparation and filing for federal tax returns and optional state tax returns
- Audit assistance and protection tools
Cons
- Requires a significant time investment over giving information to a tax pro
- Tax assistance is sometimes limited to relatively generic information
- Tax assistance is often delayed, depending on the company, software, and chosen option
- Upselling is common and sometimes unwelcome
Is Tax Prep Software Worth it?
Tax prep software can be worth it for most people because it simplifies filing, reduces errors, and can help you find deductions and credits you may qualify for. For straightforward returns, even free or low-cost versions handle forms and calculations accurately.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
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TaxSlayer
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for TaxSlayer: 9.2
TaxSlayer Tax Prep Software Review
TaxSlayer software offers full-function tax preparation and filing for federal and state tax returns. The company offers a low-cost solution versus larger competitors like H&R Block or TurboTax.
For those with simpler tax returns that don’t include rental property income or for small-business self-employed persons, TaxSlayer offers excellent options. All tax forms are available, and some tax filers may be eligible for free federal filing and one free state filing.
About
TaxSlayer offers a services menu for taxpayers to choose from, depending on their tax situation. The company’s five options include a free version for those with an income below $100,000 who file a simple return.
The self-employed plan includes working with Forms 1099 and Schedule C, while the option for military personnel offers a free filing option plus an additional cost for state forms.
TaxSlayer Cost
TaxSlayer breaks down its pricing into five tax prep plans.
- Simply Free – $0 – File a federal 1040 or 1040a and one state return for free. This option is excellent for taxpayers with incomes under $100k. It includes a simple tax return with no additional forms, credits, or deductions.
- Classic – $22.99 plus state filing cost. An online discount is available. It includes all forms, credits, and deductions.
- Premium – $42.99 plus state filing cost – An online discount is available – Featuring tax pro help and live chat.
- Self-Employed – $52.99 plus state filing cost – An online discount is available – 1099s schedule C, tax pro help, and a live chat are available, plus more.
- Military – $0 plus state filing cost – No restrictions
TaxSlayer Reviews: Features and Benefits
TaxSlayer’s features and benefits include many of the same ones found in more well-known tax prep software provider offerings.
- Five filing software options
- Tax help is available in some filing option plans
- Military plan available
- State filing costs extra in most levels
- Free federal filing requires income below $100k plus other restrictions
- Robust self-employment tax support
Why We Chose TaxSlayer Software
We chose TaxSlayer as our top pick among lesser-known online tax prep software providers for its robust support, bargain pricing options, and competitiveness against big-name companies. TaxSlayer is a solid choice for taxpayers with somewhat complex tax returns looking for a price break.
Is TaxSlayer Legit?
TaxSlayer.com is a legitimate tax preparation software provider that earns great review ratings from customers and experts alike.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Free federal filing for military members
- Robust self-employment tax support
- Lower prices than most larger software providers
- Provides an accuracy guarantee
Cons
- Doesn’t support rental property income
- Downloadable version unavailable
| Federal Tax Filing Cost | State Tax Filing Cost | Accepted Tax Forms | Limitations and Restrictions | Tax Assistance Availability |
| $0 – $52.99 | $0 – $39.95 | All forms | $100K income cap for Simply Free plan | Yes- in Premium and Self-Employed Packages |
TaxAct
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for TaxAct: 8.9
TaxAct Review
TaxAct tax prep software offers another robust option for filing taxes with a lesser-known and less costly provider than big-name companies. The Taxact.com website offers multiple online tools, calculators, and helpful information regarding tax filing. TaxAct is one of the few smaller online tax preparation sites offering rental property income provisions.
TaxAct offers access to all necessary tax forms and free federal filing for those with an adjusted gross income below $79,000. The free version has fewer restrictions than many providers.
About TaxAct Online Tax Prep Software
TaxAct offers four primary tax filing levels, all of which are less expensive than those of many larger providers. The company also offers larger tax-filing packages for commercial taxes and other tax situations. TaxAct’s free filing version still charges a minimum of $39.99 for state filing. However, qualifying for the free version is easier than with many online tax prep companies.
The company offers a 100% accuracy guarantee and a maximum refund guarantee, so taxpayers can rest assured that they’re getting the most out of their time and money investment. TaxAct’s website features numerous helpful tax, income, loan, and other financial calculators, along with helpful information and links.
TaxAct Cost
TaxAct breaks down its pricing into four consumer tax prep plans.
- Free – $0 plus state filing fee. File a federal 1040 for free if you qualify; state returns cost extra.
- Deluxe – $29.99 plus state filing fee. Includes more deductions and credits beyond the free option.
- Premier – $49.99 plus state filing fee. Adds support for investments, rental income, and other complex tax situations.
- Self-Employed – $69.99 + state filing fee. Designed for freelancers, contractors, and small-business owners.
TaxAct Reviews: Features and Benefits
TaxAct is another low-cost tax prep software option with excellent benefits rivaling larger providers for a fraction of the cost.
- Offers four distinct pricing tiers
- Free federal filing for many taxpayers with few restrictions
- Includes provisions for childcare costs, student loans, and deductions
- State returns cost extra in most levels
- Commercial tax prep is also available
- Professional tax assistance is available
Why We Chose TaxAct Software
TaxAct makes our list for its simple requirements to qualify for the free filing version, excellent accuracy, and refund guarantees. TaxAct provides those benefits while charging less than most of its competition.
Is TaxAct Legit?
TaxAct is a highly-rated, fully functioning tax prep software provider that offers a robust, if plain, interface that guides taxpayers through each step with an interview-like tone. TaxAct is an excellent low-cost option for those with simple to slightly more complex tax returns. The company also features commercial and other tax solution offerings.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Free version carries only a few restrictions
- Less common tax situations are covered
- $100,000 accuracy guarantee
- Max refund guarantee
Cons
- No free state filing options
- Expert assistance option is a little spendy
| Federal Tax Filing Cost | State Tax Filing Cost | Accepted Tax Forms | Limitations and Restrictions | Tax Assistance Availability |
| $0 – $69.99 | Starts at $39.99 | All forms | $79,000 income cap for Free filing package | Yes – $59.99 available with any filing plan |
More Finance Company Reviews
FreeTaxUSA
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for FreeTax USA: 8.8
FreeTaxUSA Review
FreeTaxUSA is one of the best tax prep software providers that doesn’t carry a large brand name. Taxpayers can file their federal tax return for free with very few limitations besides the $79,000 gross adjusted income cap.
The company provides access to all major tax forms necessary to complete tax returns and offers low-cost state filing as well. Customers can choose to receive their returns by direct deposit, debit card, or paper check.
About
FreeTaxUSA software lacks many of the bells and whistles of larger-name providers, but it contains all the expected essential functions.
The company offers its services in a menu-style format. While there are no free state filing options, the $39.99 cost is still a good deal and lower than the prices of much of the competition.
FreeTaxUSA is a solid choice for taxpayers, regardless of their tax situation. Self-employed persons, small business owners, side gig workers, as well as W-2 employees, are all likely to find the company’s product to their liking.
FreeTaxUSA Cost
FreeTaxUSA breaks down its pricing into three simple options.
- Basic – $0 federal plus state filing fee. Â File your federal tax return for free; state filing costs a low flat fee.
- Deluxe – $7.99 plus state filing fee. Adds priority support, live chat, and unlimited amended returns.
- Pro Support – $44.99 plus state filing fee. Includes personal tax advice and phone support from a tax expert.
FreeTaxUSA Reviews: Features and Benefits
FreeTaxUSA features a surprising collection of features and benefits despite its low cost.
- Multiple filing options
- Retro-filing options
- Printed and bound tax returns are available
- $79,000 cap on using the free filing version
Why We Chose FreeTaxUSA Software
We chose FreeTaxUSA for our list of the best tax prep software among lesser-known brands. FreeTaxUSA is primarily known for its unique and upfront pricing strategy. FreeTAXUSA provides a solid guideline for choosing the services you need and skipping the ones you don’t.
Is FreeTaxUSA Legit?
FreeTaxUSA is a legitimate online tax preparation software provider. The company provides a lower-cost alternative to bigger providers. While the site contains fewer benefits and lacks pizazz, it can be a good solution for those who just need to get their taxes done without spending too much.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Free extension filing
- Low-price options
- Great for self-employed or gig workers
Cons
- Free state filing option isn’t available
- Paying for the service with tax refund costs extra
| Federal Tax Filing Cost | State Tax Filing Cost | Accepted Tax Forms | Limitations and Restrictions | Tax Assistance Availability |
| $0 – $44.99 | Starts at $15.99 | All forms | No income limits for free federal filing | Yes – $7.99 for live chat or $$44.99 for tax pro access |
Compare the Best Tax Prep Software Providers
| Tax Prep Software Provider | Federal Tax Filing Cost Range | State Tax Filing Starting Cost Range | Professional Tax Help Available |
| TaxSlayer | $0 – $52.99 | $39.99 | Yes, in Premium and Self-Employed Packages |
| TaxAct | $0 – $69.99 | $39.99 | Yes $59.99 with any package |
| FreeTaxUSA | $0 | $15.99 | Yes – $7.99 for live chat or $39.99 for tax pro access |
How We Chose the Best Tax Prep Software
Our review of the best tax prep software revolves around some lesser-known tax prep software providers. These providers offer alternatives to the big-name companies that often command more significant prices. While larger companies may offer more features that can benefit some taxpayers, many of us don’t require many extra features that can drive up the cost of tax preparation.
To determine the best tax prep software providers that you haven’t heard of, we evaluated six top contenders. We analyzed factors related to preparation cost, filing cost, ease-of-use and interview-style navigation, tax help availability, limitations and restrictions, audit help details, added features, and customer and expert review ratings.
After thoroughly investigating each competitor, we ranked them based on percentage scores for those metrics. We listed our top three picks in this review based on the results.
Income Tax Due Date
Income Tax Due Date 2025
The IRS federal income tax filing deadline for 2025 taxes is Wednesday, April 15, 2026. File your federal income tax return or an extension on or before this day to avoid IRS penalties. The 41 states that collect income tax generally require taxpayers to file their state taxes on or before the same day as the IRS.
However, the following state exceptions regarding the tax deadline apply.
- Hawaii: Tax due ~April 21 each year.
- Delaware: Tax due ~April 30 each year.
- Iowa: Tax due ~April 30 each year.
- New Mexico: Tax due ~April 30 each year.
- Louisiana: Tax due ~May 15 each year.
- South Carolina: Tax due ~May 1 each year.
- Virginia: Tax due ~May 1 each year.
States that don’t collect income taxes include Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most common questions surrounding the best tax prep software
The best tax filing service depends on your needs. Popular options like TurboTax, H&R Block, and Jackson Hewitt offer powerful tools but often charge premium prices. Many filers with simple returns can save money by using lower-cost or free filing services.
Tax prep software is not deductible for most individuals. However, self-employed filers and some itemizers may be able to deduct the cost as a business expense. A tax professional can help determine eligibility.
Professional tax preparers use licensed tax software such as TurboTax Pro, Drake Tax, ProSeries, and TaxSlayer Pro. These programs are designed for complex returns and multiple clients.
No tax software gives a larger refund. Refund amounts are determined by tax law, not the software used. All reputable programs calculate refunds the same way.
You can prepare returns on multiple websites, but you can only file one federal and one state tax return per year. Any changes after filing require an amended return.
Image Sources: taxact.com – taxslayer.com – freetaxusa.com