FreeTaxUSA vs TaxSlayer
FreeTaxUSA and TaxSlayer are both popular options in this category. After extensive testing, FreeTaxUSA leads with a 8.6/10 rating, though the best choice depends on your specific needs.
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Quick Answer
FreeTaxUSA beats TaxSlayer for most users. It scores 8.6/10 vs 8.2/10 and free federal for all situations. Choose TaxSlayer if you need competitive pricing.
TaxSlayer
Fast, affordable tax filing for all situations
Starting from
$22.95
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Starting Price | $7.99 | $22.95 |
| User Reviews | ||
| Filing Options | ||
| Free Filing | All federal returns | Simple W-2 only |
| State Returns | $14.99 each | $39.95 each |
| W-2 Import | ||
| Prior Year Import | ||
| Tax Types | ||
| Self-Employment | ||
| Investments | ||
| Rental Income | ||
| Support | ||
| Audit Support | ||
| Live Expert Help | ||
| Mobile App | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
FreeTaxUSA
- Free federal for ALL situations
- State returns only $14.99
- Covers complex returns
- No upsells for federal
- Audit assist available
- Import prior year data
- Basic interface
- Less guidance than premium options
- Limited live support
TaxSlayer
- Competitive pricing
- Fast filing process
- Good self-employment support
- Phone support available
- Military discount
- IRS-authorized e-file
- Free tier very limited
- Interface could be better
- Less name recognition
Key Difference
The core difference lies in approach: FreeTaxUSA focuses on free federal for all situations, while TaxSlayer emphasizes competitive pricing. Both philosophies have merit depending on your priorities.
Which Should You Choose?
FreeTaxUSA
Choose FreeTaxUSA if you prioritize free federal for all situations, want to start with a free tier, or value state returns only $14.99.
TaxSlayer
Choose TaxSlayer if you prioritize competitive pricing, want to start with a free tier, or value fast filing process.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, FreeTaxUSA is our winner with a rating of 8.6/10 compared to TaxSlayer's 8.2/10. FreeTaxUSA stands out for its free federal for all situations and state returns only $14.99. While TaxSlayer is more affordable, FreeTaxUSA's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, TaxSlayer remains an excellent choice if competitive pricing is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Consider the migration effort before switching. Most services offer data export, but rebuilding workflows and configurations takes time. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the switching costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FreeTaxUSA better than TaxSlayer?
FreeTaxUSA scores higher in our testing (8.6/10 vs 8.2/10). FreeTaxUSA excels at free federal for all situations, while TaxSlayer is better for competitive pricing.
Which is cheaper, FreeTaxUSA or TaxSlayer?
TaxSlayer is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. TaxSlayer offers NaN% savings.
FreeTaxUSA vs TaxSlayer: which should I choose?
Choose FreeTaxUSA if you prioritize free federal for all situations. Choose TaxSlayer if you need competitive pricing. Both are solid tax software options.
What's the main difference between FreeTaxUSA and TaxSlayer?
The main difference is FreeTaxUSA offers truly free federal filing, $14.99 state, while TaxSlayer focuses on fast, affordable tax filing for all situations.