Why FreeTaxUSA?
- Free federal for everyoneNo upgrade wall for investments, rentals or self-employment
- Low state feeOne of the cheapest state returns available
- Prior-year returnsFile back years at the same low price
- Imports last year's PDFSwitch from another service in minutes
- Pro help add-onTalk to a tax professional for a one-off fee
- No upsell mazeClear pricing from start to finish
Overview
FreeTaxUSA is run by TaxHawk, an IRS-authorized e-file provider that has offered online filing since 2001. Its pitch is simple: federal returns are free regardless of complexity, and you pay only for state returns and optional extras.
It looks plainer than TurboTax and imports fewer documents automatically, but it covers the same core forms for a fraction of the price.
Pricing
FreeTaxUSA pricing depends on your tax situation. List prices for the 2025 tax year (returns filed in 2026), US federal; state returns are charged separately.
| Plan | Price (2025 tax year) | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Federal | Free | Every return type, including Schedule C, D and E |
| State | $15.99 | Per state return |
| Deluxe | $7.99 | Priority support, live chat, unlimited amended returns |
| Pro Support | $44.99 | Unlimited help from a tax professional |
| Audit Defense | $19.99 | Representation if you are audited |
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 our Tax Software Price Tracker or estimate your total with the filing cost calculator.
Try FreeTaxUSA for yourself
Free federal filing, state $15.99.
Key features
- Guided interview: Plain-language questions that fill in the right forms.
- Every common form: W-2, 1099, Schedule C, investments, rental property, HSA.
- Accuracy guarantee: FreeTaxUSA's policy covering penalties caused by its calculation errors; terms apply.
- Amended returns: File a 1040-X online.
- Prior-year filing: File returns for previous tax years.
Who can file free
Everyone can file a federal return free with FreeTaxUSA, whatever their income or forms. You pay only for state returns and optional add-ons.
Pros and cons
What we like
- Free federal filing for every return type
- Low state fee
- Clear, honest pricing
- Prior-year and amended returns supported
What to watch
- Fewer automatic imports than TurboTax
- Plainer interface
- No in-person offices
- Live help costs extra
Who it is for
Pick FreeTaxUSA if you are comfortable typing in your own numbers and want to keep the fee low. It handles complicated returns that would cost $100+ elsewhere.
Ready to start with FreeTaxUSA?
Best value for most filers.
Alternatives to FreeTaxUSA
FAQ
Is FreeTaxUSA really free?
Federal filing is free for every return. State returns cost a low flat fee per state.
Is FreeTaxUSA legit?
Yes. It is an IRS-authorized e-file provider run by TaxHawk, which has offered online filing since 2001.
Can I file self-employment taxes free?
Yes. Schedule C and self-employment tax are included in the free federal return.
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Not advice: Prices and features change often; check the provider's site before you buy. General information only, not tax, legal or financial advice. Consult a qualified tax professional.