Drake Tax
Drake Tax is a professional tax preparation software designed to help small to mid-sized accounting firms manage federal and state returns with integrated e-filing and practice management tools.
FreeTaxUSA
FreeTaxUSA is a tax preparation software that allows you to prepare, print, and e-file your federal income tax returns for free while providing low-cost state filing options.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Drake Tax | FreeTaxUSA |
|---|---|---|
| Website | drakesoftware.com | freetaxusa.com |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 0 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1977 | 2001 |
| Headquarters | Franklin, USA | Provo, USA |
Overview
Drake Tax
Drake Tax provides you with a comprehensive suite of tools to handle federal and state tax returns for individuals and businesses. You can speed up your workflow using the built-in data entry shortcuts and automatic calculations that minimize manual errors. The platform includes integrated e-filing, allowing you to track the status of every return from transmission to IRS acceptance in real-time.
Beyond simple tax prep, you can manage your entire practice with included tools for document storage and client write-ups. The software is designed specifically for professional tax preparers who need a reliable, high-volume solution without the per-form costs found in other professional suites. You can choose between unlimited filing versions or pay-per-return options depending on your firm's specific volume and budget requirements.
FreeTaxUSA
FreeTaxUSA is an online tax preparation platform designed to help you file your federal and state income taxes with ease. Whether you are a simple W-2 filer or managing complex situations like self-employment income, rental properties, or investment sales, you can navigate the filing process through a straightforward, interview-style interface. The platform handles all major IRS forms and schedules, ensuring you get your maximum refund without the high price tag of name-brand competitors.
You can import your previous year’s data from other tax providers to save time and reduce manual entry errors. The software performs comprehensive calculations to check for audit red flags and missing information before you submit. It is an ideal solution if you want a reliable, IRS-approved filing experience that prioritizes affordability and transparency over flashy marketing or expensive physical office locations.
Overview
Drake Tax Features
- Lookback Tools View prior-year data instantly while working on current returns to ensure consistency and catch missed deductions for your clients.
- Automatic Calculations Update your tax results instantly as you enter data, with the software automatically choosing the most beneficial filing status.
- Integrated E-filing Submit federal and state returns directly to the IRS and track their acceptance status without leaving the application.
- Drake Documents Store and organize your client's tax records electronically to maintain a paperless office and meet record-keeping requirements.
- Multi-State Returns Generate and file multiple state returns simultaneously, with data flowing automatically from the federal return to save you time.
- Tax Planner Compare different financial scenarios for your clients to help them minimize their future tax liabilities and plan effectively.
FreeTaxUSA Features
- Free Federal Filing. Prepare and e-file your federal tax return at no cost, including complex scenarios like self-employment and investments.
- Prior Year Import. Save time by automatically importing your data from PDF copies of returns filed with TurboTax, H&R Block, or Quicken.
- Maximum Refund Guarantee. Rest easy knowing the software calculates the biggest possible refund or the lowest tax liability allowed by law.
- Audit Assist. Access professional support and guidance if the IRS contacts you regarding a return filed through the platform.
- Itemized Deductions. Maximize your savings by easily tracking mortgage interest, charitable donations, and medical expenses through guided prompts.
- Self-Employed Support. Report your business income and expenses accurately with dedicated sections for Schedule C and 1099-NEC forms.
Pricing Comparison
Drake Tax Pricing
- Includes 15 tax returns
- Additional returns for $30 each
- All tax packages included
- Integrated e-filing
- Drake Documents and Scheduler
- Free online training
- Everything in Pay-Per-Return, plus:
- Unlimited individual returns
- Unlimited business returns
- Unlimited state returns
- Drake Tax Planner
- No per-return fees
FreeTaxUSA Pricing
- Free Federal e-file
- All IRS forms supported
- Self-employed & Small Business
- Investment & Rental Income
- Prior year data import
- Step-by-step guidance
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Priority customer support
- Live chat assistance
- Unlimited amended returns
- Audit Assist protection
- One-time payment (not monthly)
Pros & Cons
Drake Tax
Pros
- Fast data entry with keyboard-driven shortcuts
- Excellent customer support with short wait times
- All-in-one pricing includes all states and forms
- Reliable performance even during peak filing dates
Cons
- Interface looks dated compared to modern web apps
- Learning curve for navigating complex form trees
- Limited cloud-based features in the desktop version
FreeTaxUSA
Pros
- Completely free federal filing for all tax situations
- Simple and transparent pricing with no hidden upsells
- Easy data import from major competing tax software
- User-friendly interface that simplifies complex tax forms
Cons
- State filing requires an additional paid fee
- No option for live CPA video consultations
- Interface feels dated compared to premium competitors