eFile.com
eFile.com is a dedicated online tax preparation platform that helps you prepare and file your federal and state income tax returns directly with the IRS and state agencies.
TaxAct
TaxAct provides DIY tax preparation software that helps you file federal and state income tax returns with accuracy guarantees and maximum refund protections for individuals and businesses.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | eFile.com | TaxAct |
|---|---|---|
| Website | efile.com | taxact.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2004 | 1998 |
| Headquarters | Jacksonville, USA | Cedar Rapids, USA |
Overview
eFile.com
eFile.com is an online tax preparation platform designed to help you navigate the complexities of federal and state income tax filing. Whether you are filing a simple return or managing more complex situations like self-employment income, investments, or itemized deductions, you can complete the entire process within your browser. The software guides you through a series of questions to identify credits and deductions you qualify for, ensuring you receive your maximum refund while staying compliant with current tax laws.
You can use the platform to e-file your returns directly to the IRS and state tax authorities, significantly speeding up the processing time compared to paper filing. It serves individual taxpayers, families, and small business owners who want a straightforward, interview-style interface without the high cost of traditional CPA services. The platform also provides tools to track your refund status and access your previous years' tax records in one secure location.
TaxAct
TaxAct is a digital tax preparation solution designed to help you navigate the complexities of federal and state tax filing. Whether you are a simple W-2 filer, a homeowner, or a self-employed professional, you can use the step-by-step guidance to identify deductions and credits you might otherwise miss. The platform focuses on providing a clear path from data entry to e-filing while ensuring your data remains secure throughout the process.
You can import previous year data from competitors like TurboTax or H&R Block to save time on manual entry. The software scales its complexity based on your specific financial situation, offering specialized modules for investment reporting, rental property income, and small business expenses. With a focus on affordability, it provides a functional alternative to higher-priced competitors without sacrificing the essential forms and schedules you need for a complete return.
Overview
eFile.com Features
- Tax Interview Guide Answer simple questions about your life and finances while the software automatically populates the correct tax forms for you.
- Deduction Inspector Scan your financial data for over 350 potential credits and deductions to ensure you keep more of your hard-earned money.
- Direct Deposit Receive your tax refund faster by having funds deposited directly into your bank account once the IRS approves your return.
- State Tax Filing Prepare and file your state income tax returns alongside your federal return to keep all your tax data synchronized.
- Error Check System Identify potential errors or missing information before you submit your return to reduce the risk of IRS audits or delays.
- Prior Year Access Store and access your digital copies of past tax returns so you always have your financial history ready when needed.
TaxAct Features
- Step-by-Step Guidance. Answer simple questions about your life and finances while the software handles the complex math and form placement for you.
- Data Import. Upload your W-2 or import tax data from previous years and other providers to jumpstart your return and reduce manual errors.
- Maximum Refund Guarantee. File with confidence knowing the software calculates the highest possible refund or lowest tax liability based on your provided information.
- Accuracy Guarantee. Protect yourself with a guarantee that covers any penalties or interest resulting from software calculation errors during your filing process.
- Deduction Sneak Peek. Track your refund status in real-time as you enter information so you can see exactly how each entry affects your bottom line.
- ProHelp Support. Connect with tax professionals for one-on-one screen sharing and advice to resolve specific questions about your unique tax situation.
Pricing Comparison
eFile.com Pricing
- Form 1040 only
- W-2 income support
- Standard deduction
- Unemployment income
- Free customer support
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Itemized deductions
- Mortgage interest reporting
- Child and dependent credits
- Education credits and tuition
- Retirement income (1099-R)
TaxAct Pricing
- W-2 income filing
- Unemployment income
- Retirement income
- Child tax credits
- Stimulus credits
- Prior year data import
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Itemized deductions
- Mortgage interest reporting
- Student loan interest
- HSA contributions
- Real estate taxes
Pros & Cons
eFile.com
Pros
- Lower price point than major brand competitors
- Simple interview-style interface is easy to follow
- Fast processing for federal e-filing submissions
- Helpful support for basic tax filing questions
Cons
- State filing requires an additional separate fee
- Interface feels dated compared to premium competitors
- Limited support for highly complex corporate taxes
TaxAct
Pros
- More affordable than major name-brand competitors
- Intuitive interface for simple tax situations
- Easy import of data from other providers
- Clear visibility of refund status throughout
Cons
- State filing fees are charged separately
- Customer support response times vary during peak
- Upselling prompts can be frequent during filing