TaxAct Review
Budget-friendly tax filing with expert support
Overall Rating
Based on our testing
Quick Answer
TaxAct scores 8.4/10 in our testing. It's best for significantly cheaper than and covers complex tax. Key strength: Significantly cheaper than competitors. Main weakness: Interface feels dated.
Quick Summary
TaxAct offers straightforward tax preparation at significantly lower prices than the big names. While not as polished, it covers all the same tax situations and includes Xpert Assist for professional help.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Significantly cheaper than competitors
- Covers complex tax situations
- Xpert Assist help available
- $100k accuracy guarantee
- Price lock guarantee
- Good for prior year returns
What could be better
- Interface feels dated
- Slower than TurboTax
- Less hand-holding
Typical Promotions
- •Price lock guarantee
- •20% off early filing
Best time to buy: Lock price early in tax season
TaxAct Pricing
- Simple returns
- Federal only
- State $39.99 extra
- Investments
- Rental income
- Priority support
- 1099 income
- Business expenses
- Quarterly estimates
Key Features
TaxAct In-Depth Review
TaxAct is TaxAct offers straightforward tax preparation at significantly lower prices than the big names. While not as polished, it covers all the same tax situations and includes Xpert Assist for professional help. With an overall rating of 8.4/10 based on our testing, it delivers strong performance across key metrics in the tax software space.
Key Findings
- Significantly cheaper than competitors: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of TaxAct.
- Covers complex tax situations: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of TaxAct.
- Xpert Assist help available: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of TaxAct.
Performance & Speed
TaxAct delivered solid performance in our testing. Significantly cheaper than competitors.
Features & Functionality
TaxAct includes w2 import, prior year import, audit support, live expert help. The features cover the essentials, though power users may find some gaps compared to premium alternatives. We particularly appreciated significantly cheaper than competitors.
Pricing & Value
TaxAct offers a free tier, making it accessible for users to try before committing. Paid plans start at $34.99/month. The free option is genuinely useful, not just a limited trial.
Ease of Use
TaxAct's interface has a moderate learning curve. Most users will get comfortable within a few sessions. There's room for UX improvements, but core functionality is accessible.
Our Testing Methodology
We tested this tax software extensively over several weeks, evaluating real-world performance, ease of use, and value for money.
- Users who prioritize significantly cheaper than competitors
- Users looking for a solid, capable option
- Budget-conscious users who want to try before buying
- Users seeking value without sacrificing essential features
- Users who can't accept interface feels dated
- Budget-restricted users who need a more affordable option
The Bottom Line
TaxAct is a solid performer that works well for most users. Its strength in significantly cheaper than competitors makes it worth considering, though interface feels dated may affect certain users.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. Our editorial content is independent and unbiased. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through our links. Read our full disclosure
- Best Tax Software for Simple ReturnsEasy filing for W-2 employees with standard deductions
- Best Tax Software for Self-EmployedHandle 1099 income, business expenses, and quarterly taxes
- Best Tax Software for InvestorsStock sales, crypto, and capital gains reporting
- Best Tax Software for Rental IncomeDepreciation, expenses, and rental property reporting
- Best Tax Software for BeginnersStep-by-step guidance for first-time filers
- Best Tax Software for Small BusinessBusiness returns and Schedule C filing
- Best Free Tax SoftwareFile federal and state returns at no cost
- Best Cheap Tax SoftwareAffordable filing under $50
- Best Tax Software with Expert HelpGet help from real CPAs and tax professionals
- Best Tax Software with Audit ProtectionPeace of mind with audit defense included
TaxAct FAQ
How much does TaxAct cost?
TaxAct starts at $0.00/mo for the Free plan. They also offer Deluxe ($34.99/mo), Premier ($54.99/mo), Self-Employed ($74.99/mo).
Is TaxAct worth it in 2025?
TaxAct scores 8.4/10 in our testing. Significantly cheaper than competitors. However, interface feels dated.
What are the pros and cons of TaxAct?
Pros: Significantly cheaper than competitors; Covers complex tax situations; Xpert Assist help available. Cons: Interface feels dated; Slower than TurboTax; Less hand-holding.
Is TaxAct safe to use?
TaxAct is a legitimate tax software service. We recommend reviewing their privacy policy for full details.
Does TaxAct have a free plan?
Yes, TaxAct offers a free plan with Simple returns, Federal only. Paid plans start at $34.99/mo.