Why TaxSlayer?
- All forms in ClassicNo upgrade needed for investments or rentals
- Self-employed valueSchedule C help for far less than the big brands
- Military filersFree federal filing for active-duty service members
- Pro accessPremium adds priority help from tax pros
- Mobile appFile from your phone
- Fast, simple interviewLess padding than the big names
Overview
TaxSlayer has offered tax software since 1965 from Augusta, Georgia. It competes on price: the Classic tier supports every major form, so you do not pay more just because you have investments or rental income.
The interface is less polished than TurboTax and imports are more limited, but the savings are large for complex returns.
Pricing
TaxSlayer 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Simply Free | $0 | Basic returns, includes one state |
| Classic | $44.99 | Every form, investments and rentals |
| Premium | $64.99 | Classic plus priority support and tax pro access |
| Self-Employed | $74.99 | Schedule C guidance and self-employment help |
| State | $47.99 | Per state on paid tiers |
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 TaxSlayer for yourself
Simply Free for basic returns, Classic from $44.99.
Key features
- Every form in Classic: Investments, rentals and itemized deductions without an upgrade.
- Self-Employed tier: Expense tracking guidance and quarterly estimate help.
- Military edition: Free federal returns for active-duty military.
- Ask a Tax Pro: Included in Premium and Self-Employed.
- Audit Defense: Included in the Self-Employed tier.
Who can file free
Simply Free covers basic returns with W-2 income and the standard deduction, including one state return. Active-duty military can file federal free.
Pros and cons
What we like
- Low prices for complex returns
- All forms in the cheapest paid tier
- Good self-employed tier
- Free federal for active military
What to watch
- Fewer imports
- Less polished design
- State fee on paid tiers
- Simply Free is narrow
Who it is for
Pick TaxSlayer if you have freelance, investment or rental income and want to pay a fraction of TurboTax prices while still getting guidance.
Ready to start with TaxSlayer?
Best for self-employed on a budget.
Alternatives to TaxSlayer
FAQ
Is TaxSlayer good for self-employed filers?
Yes. The Self-Employed tier adds Schedule C guidance and access to tax pros at a much lower price than TurboTax.
Does TaxSlayer support investments?
Yes, from the Classic tier.
Is TaxSlayer free for military?
Active-duty service members can file federal returns free.
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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.