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.
TurboTax
TurboTax is a comprehensive tax preparation software that guides you through federal and state income tax returns with step-by-step questions to maximize your deductions and ensure filing accuracy.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | TaxSlayer | TurboTax |
|---|---|---|
| Website | taxslayer.com | turbotax.intuit.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 | 1965 | 1984 |
| Headquarters | Augusta, USA | Mountain View, USA |
Overview
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.
TurboTax
TurboTax simplifies the complex world of tax filing by transforming daunting forms into a series of simple, conversational questions. You don't need to be a tax expert to get your maximum refund; the software handles the calculations and searches for over 350 deductions and credits based on your unique life situation. Whether you are a simple W-2 filer, a homeowner, or a small business owner, you can navigate your taxes with confidence using their intuitive interface.
The platform provides various levels of support, from DIY filing to full-service options where a tax professional does everything for you. You can import your financial data directly from employers and financial institutions, significantly reducing manual entry and potential errors. It is designed for individuals, freelancers, and small business owners who want a guaranteed accurate return without the high cost of a traditional accounting firm.
Overview
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.
TurboTax Features
- Step-by-Step Guidance. Answer simple questions about your life and let the software automatically fill out the right tax forms for you.
- Deduction Finder. Scan for over 350 tax deductions and credits to ensure you keep more of the money you earned.
- W-2 Import. Snap a photo of your W-2 or import it digitally to save time and eliminate manual data entry errors.
- Audit Support Guarantee. Receive free audit guidance from a trained professional to help you understand what to expect if the IRS contacts you.
- Expert Review. Connect with live tax experts who can review your return line-by-line before you file for total peace of mind.
- Maximum Refund Guarantee. Get the largest refund possible or your money back if another tax preparation method finds a bigger one.
- ExplainWhy Technology. View instant explanations for why your refund amount changed so you understand your financial picture clearly.
- Mobile Filing. Start, stop, and finish your taxes across your phone, tablet, or computer with seamless data syncing.
Pricing Comparison
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
TurboTax Pricing
- For simple tax returns only
- W-2 income reporting
- IRS standard deduction
- Earned Income Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credits
- Free federal and state filing
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Itemized deductions
- Mortgage interest deductions
- Property tax reporting
- Charitable donation tracking
- Search 350+ tax credits
Pros & Cons
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
TurboTax
Pros
- Extremely user-friendly interface for non-experts
- Seamless data importing from financial institutions
- Clear explanations of complex tax concepts
- Reliable mobile app for filing on the go
- Excellent live support options for tricky questions
Cons
- Pricing can feel high for complex returns
- Frequent prompts to upgrade to paid tiers
- State filing often requires an additional fee
- Limited functionality in the free version