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.
TaxSlayer
TaxSlayer is a cloud-based tax preparation software providing individuals and professional tax preparers with tools to file federal and state income tax returns quickly and accurately online.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | TaxAct | TaxSlayer |
|---|---|---|
| Website | taxact.com | taxslayer.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 | 1998 | 1965 |
| Headquarters | Cedar Rapids, USA | Augusta, USA |
Overview
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.
TaxSlayer
TaxSlayer helps you take the stress out of tax season by providing a straightforward platform to file your federal and state returns. Whether you are a simple W-2 filer or a small business owner with complex 1099 income, you can navigate the filing process with step-by-step guidance. The platform ensures you receive your maximum refund by double-checking for missed credits and deductions as you enter your information.
You can import your prior year data from other providers to save time and reduce manual entry errors. The software scales to meet your specific needs, offering dedicated versions for active military members, self-employed individuals, and professional tax offices. It focuses on providing a high-speed filing experience without the high price tag often associated with premium tax preparation services.
Overview
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.
TaxSlayer Features
- Quick File Import. Upload your W-2 and import your prior year tax data to jumpstart your return and avoid tedious manual data entry.
- Maximum Refund Guarantee. File with confidence knowing the software identifies every credit and deduction you qualify for to ensure you get your biggest refund.
- Step-by-Step Guidance. Follow clear, simple prompts that walk you through each section of your tax return so you never feel lost or overwhelmed.
- IRS Inquiry Assistance. Get support for up to one year after filing if you receive a letter or inquiry from the IRS regarding your return.
- Self-Employed Tools. Manage your 1099 income and business expenses with specialized tools designed to maximize your professional deductions and credits.
- Mobile App Filing. Start, finish, and e-file your taxes directly from your smartphone or tablet using the native iOS and Android applications.
Pricing Comparison
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
TaxSlayer Pricing
- One free federal return
- One free state return
- W-2 income filing
- Standard deduction claims
- Education credits
- Email and phone support
- Everything in Free, plus:
- All tax forms and schedules
- Itemized deductions
- Investment and rental income
- Prior year data import
- IRS inquiry assistance
Pros & Cons
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
TaxSlayer
Pros
- Significantly lower cost than major brand competitors
- Fast and responsive cloud-based user interface
- Free federal and state filing for active military
- Simple navigation for straightforward tax situations
Cons
- Customer support response times peak during April
- State filing fees apply to most paid tiers
- Less educational content than premium competitors