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.
Jackson Hewitt
Jackson Hewitt provides professional tax preparation services and software solutions to help you file your federal and state income tax returns accurately while maximizing your potential refund.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | FreeTaxUSA | Jackson Hewitt |
|---|---|---|
| Website | freetaxusa.com | jacksonhewitt.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Starting Price | Free | $25/month |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2001 | 1982 |
| Headquarters | Provo, USA | Jersey City, USA |
Overview
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.
Jackson Hewitt
Jackson Hewitt offers a flexible tax preparation platform designed to help you navigate the complexities of federal and state filings. Whether you prefer to manage your taxes entirely online, visit a physical office, or start online and finish with a pro, you can choose the path that fits your schedule. The software guides you through life changes, self-employment income, and itemized deductions to ensure you claim every credit you deserve.
You can upload your W-2s digitally and sync your data from previous years to speed up the filing process. The platform is built for individuals, families, and small business owners who want a straightforward way to handle their annual tax obligations. With a focus on accuracy and refund optimization, it provides the tools you need to file with confidence and track your refund status in real-time.
Overview
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.
Jackson Hewitt Features
- W-2 Digital Import. Snap a photo or upload your W-2 to automatically populate your tax forms and save time on manual data entry.
- Maximum Refund Guarantee. File with confidence knowing you will receive the largest refund possible or get your tax preparation fees back.
- Refund Advance Loans. Access a portion of your expected tax refund early through integrated seasonal loan options available directly within the platform.
- State Return Filing. Complete your state tax returns alongside your federal filing to ensure all your local tax obligations are met accurately.
- Step-by-Step Guidance. Follow simple prompts that walk you through your income, credits, and deductions to minimize the risk of filing errors.
- Online Document Storage. Store and access your past tax returns and supporting documents securely within your account for easy reference next year.
Pricing Comparison
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)
Jackson Hewitt Pricing
- Federal tax return filing
- State tax return filing
- Unlimited standard deductions
- Self-employment income support
- Maximum refund guarantee
- Secure document storage
- Professional tax pro review
- In-person or remote filing
- Document drop-off options
- Year-round tax support
- IRS audit assistance
- Customized tax planning
Pros & Cons
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
Jackson Hewitt
Pros
- Flat-fee pricing for federal and state returns
- Easy digital document uploading and W-2 import
- Access to thousands of physical locations for help
- Simple interface suitable for first-time filers
- Reliable refund advance options during tax season
Cons
- Limited features compared to premium competitors
- Customer support wait times during peak season
- In-person service fees vary by location