Best Free Tax Software in April 2024
Updated March 25, 2024 at 4:08 pm
Doing your taxes is a notoriously arduous task, but the right tool can help ease the process and make sure you aren’t missing out on any potential return. While many of the best tax software on the market charge a fee depending on the services you utilize, there are also many great free options available—especially if you have a simpler return.
When choosing the best free tax software of 2024 for you, you’ll want to consider several factors, including what tax situations are included in the free version, customer support options, if there is a maximum refund guarantee and if the user interface is user-friendly.
Read on for our top picks for free tax software providers for the 2024 tax season.
Methodology To compile this list, we reviewed the top services on the market, compared the specs and features and created a short list of the top Free Tax Software. Then, we used product descriptions, reviews, ratings and hands-on experience to find the best Free Tax Software for each category.
Our Picks - Best Overall: TurboTax
- Best for Claiming Credits: H&R Block
- Best for Unlimited Phone Support: TaxSlayer
- Best No Hidden Fees: Cash App Taxes
- Best for Maximum Refund Guarantee: TaxAct
5 Best Free Tax Software Providers of 2024
Best Overall
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TurboTax Free Edition
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Why We Chose It
TurboTax offers a variety of services ranging in cost, but its free tax filing product, TurboTax Free Online, approximately serves more than a third of filers and is straightforward and easy to use. File for free TurboTax Free Edition. ~37% of taxpayers qualify. Form 1040 + limited credits only.
Pros
- Approximately 37% of taxpayers qualify
- Seamless interface makes completing forms simple
- Get your refund up to five days early, terms apply
Cons
- Many tax situations may require upgraded-cost products, including unemployment income on form 1099-G
- Live expert consultation only available on paid services
- Full-service options are expensive
Best for Claiming Credits
H&R Block
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Why We Chose It
In addition to helping filers claim eligible Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Credit on their free service, H&R includes unemployment income from form 1099-G in their free product. Read our H&R Block review.
Pros
- More comprehensive free service, including unemployment income
- Easy import of past return data and W2s
- More affordable full-service options for those with more complicated tax situations
Cons
- Live support only available on paid services
- Accuracy guarantee only eligible up to $10,000
- Refund advance only available to select customers
Best for Unlimited Phone Support
TaxSlayer
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Why We Chose It
In addition to a free service for simple tax returns, TaxSlayer offers a comprehensive, affordable paid service for self-employed filers. TaxSlayer customers also have access to free, unlimited phone and email customer support. Read our TaxSlayer review.
Pros
- Unlimited phone and email support for all customers, plus live support for an additional cost
- Deduct cost of services from your refund instead of paying out of pocket
- Affordable paid service for self-employed tax filers
Cons
- Free filing only available for those with a taxable income less than $100,000
- Earned Income Tax credit not included in free service
- Live support limited to premium service tier
Best for No Hidden Fees
Cash App Taxes
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Why We Chose It
Cash App Taxes is an entirely free service, so you won’t be hit with hidden fees based on your tax situation. Cash App users can also opt to have their refund deposited into their account up to six days early.
Pros
- No hidden fees or add-on services
- Get refund deposited into Cash App up to six days early
- Accuracy guarantee
Cons
- More manual interface than competitors
- You must have Cash App installed to use the service
- No tax expert support available
Best for Maximum Refund Guarantee
TaxAct
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Why We Chose It
TaxAct is an affordable service with a top accuracy guarantee. If TaxAct makes an error in your calculations, they’ll pay the difference in refund or liability up to $100,000. Read our TaxAct review.
Pros
- High accuracy guarantee of up to $100,000
- Unemployment income included in free service
- Affordable premium tiers
Cons
- Tax expert assistance costs an additional fee for all tiers of service
- Self-employed income not eligible for free service
- State tax returns incur additional cost
Compare Newsweek’s Best Free Tax Software Services
| Name | Income Requirement | Free State Return | Itemized Deductions | Unemployment Income |
| TurboTax Free Edition (~37% of taxpayers qualify. Form 1040 + limited credits only) | No | Yes | No | No |
| H&R Block | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TaxSlayer | $100,000 or less | Yes | No | No |
| Cash App Taxes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TaxAct | $79,000 or less | No | No | Yes |
What Is Free Tax Software?
Online tax preparation software helps filers submit their returns to the IRS, without the need to hire a tax preparer or CPA. Many of these services are available for no cost, especially if you have a simple filing situation—meaning you earn W-2 income and use the standard deduction.
These services ease tax filing with user-friendly interfaces that help you find any credits or deductions you qualify for and accurately input your information. Since taxes are notoriously complex, these services are also typically backed with an accuracy guarantee, meaning you don’t have to worry about making a mistake on your return and being penalized by the IRS in response.
For those with more complicated tax situations—for instance, multiple sources of income or itemized deductions—almost every major tax software offers deluxe, paid services to support any additional forms or review required. This could also include a review of your return by a CPA or enrolled agent.
Who Is Free Tax Filing Best For?
Free tax filing can help you save money and provide peace of mind when submitting your return, but it’s best suited for those with relatively straightforward tax situations. For most free services, you’ll only qualify if you don’t have too many deductions or credits, earn W-2 income and use the standard deduction rather than itemize.
If you have many investments, earn money as a contractor or need to claim credits and deductions for special situations, you might want to opt for a paid service or even an in-person tax preparer or CPA who can help you navigate any complexities involved.
Free Tax Software Pros and Cons
Free tax software can help you file your taxes easily and maximize your return, all with an accuracy guarantee. However, if you have a complicated tax situation, you might need to upgrade to a paid service.
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface that helps you find all possible deductions and maximize your return
- Access to technical support
- Potential to get your return early or other perks
Cons
- Free services are typically only available in simple tax situations
- Support is less personalized than working with a CPA or tax preparer
- You might have to download an app for some services
How To Choose a Free Tax Software Service
There are several great free tax softwares to choose from. To make sure you are choosing the best for you, consider factors including if your specific tax situation is included, if customer support is provided with your tier of service for the questions you have, if there’s a guarantee of your maximum refund and protection for accuracy and if the user interface is easy to understand.
- Included tax situations: Do you have multiple sources of income? What about special deductions? If so, you’ll want to make sure your specific filing situation is included in the free tier of the service and that you won’t be nickeled-and-dimed for add-ons.
- Customer support availability: While almost all these services provide free technical support, questions about your taxes themselves are not always included in free tiers. And if that support is available, it might be live or on a delay. Consider both the amount of service available and customer reviews of that support before choosing a tax filer.
- Maximum refund and accuracy guarantees: Most tax softwares provide some sort of guarantee that you will get your maximum refund in addition to an accuracy guarantee—which compensates you in case of a calculation error. However, the amount covered will differ depending on the service, so read the terms and conditions carefully.
- User interface: Tax software is supposed to make your filing easier, so if the user interface is difficult to use, it probably isn’t the right service for you.
When Should I Pay for Tax Software?
You should consider paying for tax software if you have a complicated tax situation, especially if you require live support from a CPA or tax agent or want your return reviewed by a professional before it is filed. These instances are not typically covered in free services, and the more complicated your situation, the more room for errors that could reduce your return or lead to an IRS penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TurboTax 100% Free?
No. While TurboTax does offer entirely free service for certain filers, many of its offerings are only available if you upgrade to a paid service tier. Additionally, some forms or tax situations incur an additional fee. File for free TurboTax Free Edition. ~37% of taxpayers qualify. Form 1040 + limited credits only.
Is TaxSlayer or TurboTax Better?
It depends on your situation. TurboTax has a top-notch user interface and comprehensive services, while TaxSlayer offers a more affordable service for self-employed filers.
How Can I Get the Largest Tax Refund?
You can increase your refund by ensuring you claim all your eligible deductions and credits. Using a tax software or working with a professional can help you find all your potential options.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
