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ReviewsIs FreeTaxUSA actually free?
How these scores work
Yes — FreeTaxUSA files federal returns free for every complexity level: investments, freelance income, rental property, itemized deductions — all the situations TurboTax charges $39–119 for. State returns cost roughly $15.
TurboTax charges $39–119+ for the same federal forms; FreeTaxUSA charges $0.
What you get free
- Free federal filing for all return types — no income or complexity limit
- Guided interview-style interface
- Prior-year import
- Amended returns included
In practice: the honest alternative to TurboTax — free federal regardless of complexity, flat $15 for state, no upgrade traps.
Drawbacks
- The interface is functional, not polished
- No in-person help option
- Less hand-holding than TurboTax's guided experience
Also paywalled
- State returns (~$15 each)
- Priority support ($7)
Free facts
| Verdict | Free Forever |
| Card required | No |
| Auto-bills | — |
| Account | Required |
| Limits | State returns cost ~$15 |
| The real cost | An account. Federal filing is free for all complexity levels; state costs ~$15. |
The catch
The $15 state fee is the business model, and it's stated plainly. No bait-and-switch, no mid-return upgrade wall. The interface is simpler than TurboTax but covers the same forms.
The smart play
- Use this if TurboTax tries to upgrade you — FreeTaxUSA handles the same forms free
- The $15 state fee is the only charge and it's stated upfront
- Start here instead of TurboTax to avoid the mid-return upgrade wall
More info — tap to expand
Why this isn't more famous
Last checked: July 2026 · Verdict: Free Forever — a real permanent free plan. signup and fair limits — but no clock and no card.
US only. Canadian equivalent: Wealthsimple Tax — free for all return types with optional pay-what-you-want.
Visit FreeTaxUSA →