The short answer
Choose FreeTaxUSA if you are comfortable entering your own numbers and want the lowest total cost, even for investments, rentals or self-employment. Choose TurboTax if you want the best imports, step-by-step guidance and easy access to a live expert, and the extra cost is worth it to you.
FreeTaxUSA
Free federal filing, state $15.99.
TurboTax
Free Edition for simple returns, Deluxe from $79.
Side-by-side
| TurboTax | FreeTaxUSA | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.3/10 | 9.4/10 |
| Free federal | Simple Form 1040 only | Every return type |
| State return (per state) | $39 to $64 | $15.99 |
| Investments and rentals | Premium, $139 | Free federal |
| Self-employed | Premium, $139 | Free federal |
| Live expert help | Expert Assist and Full Service | Pro Support add-on |
| Imports | Best in class, including W-2 photo | Prior-year PDF, fewer imports |
| Refund advance | Up to $4,000 at 0% | No |
Pricing note: Prices are list prices for the 2025 tax year (returns filed in 2026), US federal unless noted; state returns are charged separately as shown. Providers set prices for the 2026 tax year (filed in 2027) in December and January, and early-season discounts are common. Prices last checked October 2026. Check the provider's site before you file.
Compare every provider in the Tax Software Price Tracker or estimate your total with the filing cost calculator.
Price
This is the biggest difference. On 2025 tax year list prices, FreeTaxUSA files every federal return free and charges $15.99 per state. A filer with investments or freelance income who needs TurboTax Premium ($139) plus one state return ($39 to $64) pays about $178 to $203 for the same forms.
Ease of use
TurboTax is more polished and imports more documents automatically, which saves time if you have many 1099s or crypto transactions. FreeTaxUSA is plainer but clear, and covers the same core forms.
Help and extras
TurboTax sells unlimited live expert help and full-service preparation, and offers a 0% refund advance for eligible filers. FreeTaxUSA offers paid priority support and a pro support add-on, and audit defense as an extra.
Other options
For a fully free federal and state return in one state, look at Cash App Taxes. For an in-person backup, see TurboTax vs H&R Block.
FAQ
Is FreeTaxUSA as good as TurboTax?
It covers the same core federal forms for much less. TurboTax is easier and imports more, but costs more.
Can I switch from TurboTax to FreeTaxUSA?
Yes. FreeTaxUSA can import last year's return as a PDF.
Is FreeTaxUSA safe?
Yes. It is an IRS-authorized e-file provider.
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Not advice: General information only, not tax, legal or financial advice. Consult a qualified tax professional. Dates and rules can change; check irs.gov for your situation.