Side by side · Tax software
FreeTaxUSA vs TurboTax
Who should pick which, from each company’s own pricing pages and terms.
We check it out so you don’t have to.
How we researched this page: we read each company’s own pricing pages and terms, independent tests, and customer reviews. We did not use these products ourselves. Prices change often, so each one shows the date we checked it.
In short: FreeTaxUSA — cheapest full federal return. TurboTax — most guided, live expert options. The details, prices and honest downsides are below.
| Item | FreeTaxUSA | TurboTax |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Cheapest full federal return | Most guided, live expert options |
| Starting price | $0 federal; $15.99 per state (2026 season, 2025 returns), checked October 25, 2026 | $0 (simple returns); DIY up to $139 (2026 season, 2025 returns), checked October 25, 2026 |
| Trial / refund | Pay when you file | Pay when you file |
Who FreeTaxUSA fits
People comfortable answering questions on their own who want a low price.
Watch out for: Less hand-holding than TurboTax. Fewer live help options.
Who TurboTax fits
People who want the most guidance, or a tax expert to review or do the return.
Watch out for: The most expensive option. Upsells come up throughout the process.
Quick verdict
TurboTax gives the most guidance and expert options, and costs the most. FreeTaxUSA files federal returns for $0 and state returns for $15.99 (2026 filing season, 2025 returns), with less hand-holding. Prices change each season, so check both before you file.
Visit FreeTaxUSA’s official site
Visit TurboTax’s official site
More on each: our full FreeTaxUSA review · our full TurboTax review
See every option in Best Tax Software, including companies not covered here.
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