Here’s a comprehensive overview of FreeTaxUSA at freetaxusa.com, one of the most popular and highly-regarded online tax preparation tools in the U.S.:
✅ What FreeTaxUSA Offers
Federal tax returns are always free, regardless of form complexity—supports W‑2s, investments, rental income, self-employment, Schedule C, K-1s, itemized deductions, etc.
State returns cost a flat $14.99 per state (or $17.99 for prior years).
Optional upgrades include:
Deluxe Support: $7.99 for priority help and unlimited amended returns
Pro Support: ~$39.99–$49.99 for expert assistance via chat/phone
Audit Defense and printing/binding services at extra cost
👍 Pros & Cons
Benefits
Flat pricing: Complexity of your return doesn’t change federal cost
Supports most tax situations even without upgrading
High user satisfaction: rated ~4.8/5 on site; praised in Kiplinger and Reddit communities
Limitations
No phone support for free users; only chat/email unless upgraded
State return fees may be a drawback compared to truly free options like Cash App Taxes
The interface is functional but not as polished as TurboTax
Some users note occasional support challenges or feature limitations
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🗣️ User Feedback from Reddit
From r/personalfinance:
“I used it for the first time and had an amazing experience. In and out in 30 minutes and no big cost… I cannot recommend it enough.”
“For the vast majority of regular people, FreeTaxUSA is definitely the best deal out there. I am a complete and total fanboy of it.”
Other Redditors offer caution:
“My poor … experience … I kept getting … rejection … free support [was] not helpful. I’m going back to H&R Block.”
“State costs $15 to e‑file. … If you go through IRS FreeFile program, fees are different and state can be free.”
🧩 How It Compares
| Feature | FreeTaxUSA | TurboTax / H&R Block | Cash App Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal pricing | Always free | Free for simple returns only | Always free |
| State return fees | $14.99 per state | $30+ per state | Included for free |
| Support options | Chat, email, paid upgrades | Phone & in-person support | Minimal/no live support |
| Form coverage | Extensive | Very extensive | Moderate, good for basics |
| UI/experience | Solid and functional | Top-tier polish & imports | Clean but basic |
🤔 Is FreeTaxUSA Right for You?
Great choice if: You want truly free federal filing, don’t need phone support, and want flat pricing for complex scenarios.
Better alternatives if: You need free state filing, expect guided phone support, or prefer ultra-polished interfaces.
💡 Tips & Quick Steps
Start for free—testing the software doesn’t cost anything.
File your federal return, then decide if you want to pay for the state e-file.
Use Deluxe Support ($7.99) if you want extra help or amendments.
Compare fee vs. free state filing through IRS Free File (some taxpayers under AGI limits qualify).
📌 Final Verdict
FreeTaxUSA remains a top recommendation for cost-conscious filers and those with moderately complex tax situations. It was named Best Overall Tax Prep by Kiplinger for 2025—thanks to its flat-rate model and comprehensive coverage
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