TaxAct Review: An Unbiased Review of Features, Pricing, and Customer Support

Tax season can be a stressful time of year for many individuals and businesses alike. However, with the help of tax filing software, the process can be made much easier. TaxAct is one such software provider that has been around since 1998 and has helped over 90 million tax filers. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive TaxAct review, including the pros and cons of the software, and the services offered, and we will answer all the questions you may have.

Pros and Cons of TaxAct

Like any software, TaxAct has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons of using TaxAct:

Pros:

• TaxAct is generally more affordable than other tax filing software options
• It offers a free filing option for simple tax returns
• The software is user-friendly and easy to navigate
• The customer service team is responsive and helpful

Cons:

• The software doesn’t offer as many features as some other tax filing options
• Some users have reported issues with the accuracy of the calculations
• The interface can be somewhat outdated compared to other tax software options
• There have been occasional reports of glitches and technical issues with the software

Services Offered by TaxAct

TaxAct offers a range of services for both individuals and businesses. Here are some of the key services offered:

• Personal tax filing: It offers a variety of tax filing options for individuals, including a free option for simple tax returns, as well as paid options for more complex returns.
• Business tax filing: It also offers a range of tax filing options for businesses, including sole proprietors, partnerships, and corporations.
• E-filing: All tax returns can be e-filed, making the process quick and easy.
• Tax calculators: It provides a range of calculators to help users estimate their taxes, including a W-4 calculator, a tax bracket calculator, and a capital gains tax calculator.

What is TaxAct and how does it work?

TaxAct is a tax preparation software that allows individuals and businesses to easily and efficiently file their federal and state income tax returns. TaxAct software operates by guiding users through a series of questions and prompts to gather the necessary information needed to prepare and file their tax returns.

The software then uses this information to automatically populate the appropriate tax forms and schedules, minimizing the amount of manual work required by the user. Once the tax return is completed, it allows users to e-file their tax returns electronically with the IRS and/or state tax authorities, as well as print out a hard copy for their records. It also offers various tools and resources, such as tax calculators, to help users maximize their deductions and ensure the accuracy of their returns.

What are the key features of TaxAct?

TaxAct offers a range of features that are designed to simplify the tax filing process for individuals and businesses. Here are some of the key features:

• Free Filing Option: It offers a free filing option for individuals with simple tax returns, which includes federal and state e-filing.
• Basic and Deluxe Editions: For those who need to file more complex returns, it offers Basic and Deluxe editions with additional features, such as itemized deductions and access to prior-year returns.
• Business Editions: It also offers a range of business editions for sole proprietors, partnerships, corporations, and other entities, with features like depreciation schedules and business income and expense tracking.
• E-Filing: It allows users to electronically file their tax returns with the IRS and state tax authorities, which can result in faster refunds and a quicker overall filing process.
• Importing: It allows users to import data from prior-year returns and other sources, such as W-2 forms and 1099 forms.
• Tax Calculators: It provides a variety of tax calculators to help users estimate their tax liability and plan for the future, including a W-4 calculator, a tax bracket calculator, and a capital gains tax calculator.
• Deduction Maximizer: Its Deduction Maximizer feature helps users identify all of the deductions and credits they are eligible for, ensuring that they get the maximum refund possible.
• Customer Support: It offers customer support via phone, email, and live chat, as well as an extensive knowledge base and frequently asked questions section.
• Security: It uses state-of-the-art security measures to protect user information, including encryption and multi-factor authentication.
• Audit Defense: TaxAct’s Audit Defense feature provides users with professional representation in the event of an IRS audit, offering peace of mind and protection against unexpected costs.

How much does TaxAct cost?

TaxAct offers a range of pricing options depending on the complexity of your tax return and the specific features you need. Here is an overview of TaxAct’s pricing:

• Free: TaxAct’s Free plan is available for individuals with simple tax returns, including federal and state e-filing.
• Basic: TaxAct’s Basic plan starts at $9.95 and is designed for those who need to file a basic tax return with no itemized deductions.
• Deluxe: TaxAct’s Deluxe plan starts at $29.95 and includes features like itemized deductions and access to prior-year returns.
• Premier: TaxAct’s Premier plan starts at $39.95 and is designed for investors and rental property owners, with features like stock and investment income reporting and rental property tax deductions.
• Self-Employed: TaxAct’s Self-Employed plan starts at $69.95 and is designed for sole proprietors and freelancers, with features like depreciation schedules and business income and expense tracking.

It’s important to note that these prices may vary based on the specific features and options you choose. Additionally, state filing fees are not included in these prices and may vary depending on your state of residence.

Is TaxAct easy to use for beginners?

Yes, TaxAct is generally considered to be an easy-to-use tax preparation software, even for beginners. TaxAct’s interface is designed to guide users through the tax filing process step-by-step, and the software automatically populates the necessary tax forms and schedules based on the information provided by the user.

It also offers helpful tips and explanations throughout the filing process, as well as access to customer support if needed. Additionally, Its free version is a great option for those with simple tax returns, and its paid versions offer additional features and support for more complex returns. It is a user-friendly option for those who want to file their taxes on their own.

How does TaxAct compare to other tax filing software options?

TaxAct is one of several tax filing software options available to taxpayers, and there are a number of factors that can be considered when comparing TaxAct to other options. Here are some of the key considerations:

• Cost: It is generally considered to be more affordable than some of the other major tax filing software options, such as TurboTax and H&R Block.
• Features: It offers a range of features for individuals and businesses, including a free filing option, which can be attractive for those looking for a low-cost option.
• Ease of Use: Its interface is generally considered to be user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it a good choice for beginners.
• Customer Support: It offers customer support via phone, email, and live chat, which can be a helpful resource for those who need assistance.
• Security: It uses state-of-the-art security measures to protect user information, which can be an important consideration for those who are concerned about identity theft and other cyber threats.

TaxAct is a competitive option for those who want to file their taxes on their own, particularly for those with simple tax returns or for those who are looking for an affordable option. However, individuals with more complex tax situations may want to consider other options with more robust features and support.

What types of tax returns can be filed using TaxAct?

TaxAct offers a variety of options for filing tax returns, including:

• Individual tax returns: It can be used to file federal and state income tax returns for individuals with a range of income levels and tax situations.
• Business tax returns: It also offers options for filing tax returns for businesses, including sole proprietors, LLCs, partnerships, and S corporations.
• Trust and estate tax returns: It can be used to file tax returns for trusts and estates, including federal and state fiduciary income tax returns.
• Nonprofit tax returns: It also offers options for filing tax returns for nonprofit organizations, including Form 990 and Form 990-EZ.

In addition to these options, the tax software also offers features to help users claim deductions and credits, track expenses, and more, making it a versatile option for a variety of tax situations.

Is TaxAct secure and reliable?

Yes, TaxAct is a secure and reliable tax preparation software. TaxAct uses state-of-the-art security measures to protect user information, including encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular system monitoring. The tax software also undergoes regular security audits to ensure that its security protocols are up-to-date and effective.

In addition to security, it is also reliable in terms of accuracy and compliance with tax laws. TaxAct is constantly updated to reflect changes in tax laws and regulations, and the software undergoes rigorous testing to ensure that calculations are accurate and forms are correctly populated.

TaxAct has also been recognized for its reliability and security by independent reviewers and industry experts, including being awarded the 2021 TopTenReviews Gold Award for best online tax software.

Users can feel confident that TaxAct is a secure and reliable option for filing their taxes online.

What customer support options are available with TaxAct?

TaxAct offers a range of customer support options to help users navigate the tax filing process. Here are some of the support options available:

• Phone support: Users can contact its customer support team by phone for assistance with their tax returns. It offers both English and Spanish language support.
• Email support: Users can also contact TaxAct’s customer support team by email for assistance with their tax returns.
• Live chat support: It offers live chat support for users who prefer to communicate via chat rather than phone or email.
• Knowledgebase: Its knowledgebase offers helpful articles and resources to assist users with common tax-related questions and issues.
• Community forum: Its community forum allows users to connect with other users and ask questions, share advice, and get support from the TaxAct community.

TaxAct’s customer support options provide users with multiple ways to get assistance with their tax returns, making it a helpful resource for those who need additional guidance.

What are the benefits of using TaxAct for tax filing?

There are several benefits to using TaxAct for tax filing. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Affordability: It is generally considered to be one of the most affordable tax filing software options, with low-cost options available for both federal and state tax returns.
• User-friendly interface: Its interface is designed to be easy to use and navigate, making it a good choice for both beginners and experienced users.
• Accuracy: It is designed to ensure that calculations are accurate and forms are correctly populated, reducing the risk of errors and omissions on tax returns.
• Versatility: It offers a range of options for filing tax returns, including individual, business, trust, and nonprofit returns, as well as features for tracking expenses and claiming deductions and credits.
• Security: It uses state-of-the-art security measures to protect user information, ensuring that personal and financial data is kept safe and secure.
• Customer support: It offers multiple customer support options, including phone, email, live chat, and a knowledgebase, providing users with a variety of ways to get assistance with their tax returns.

TaxAct is a reliable and affordable option for tax filing, with a user-friendly interface and robust features for a variety of tax situations.

How can TaxAct help businesses with their tax filing needs?

TaxAct offers a range of options for businesses to file their taxes, including sole proprietorships, LLCs, partnerships, and S corporations. Here are some ways TaxAct can help businesses with their tax filing needs:

• Business-specific forms: It provides business-specific forms that help businesses file their taxes accurately and efficiently. This includes forms such as Schedule C, which is used by sole proprietors to report business income and expenses, and Form 1065, which is used by partnerships to report income and expenses.
• Deduction tracking: It offers a feature that helps businesses track expenses and deductions throughout the year, making it easier to claim deductions and minimize tax liability.
• State tax filing: It offers state tax filing options for businesses, including options for multiple states and electronic filing.
• Business support: It offers customer support for businesses, including phone and email support, as well as a knowledge base that provides helpful articles and resources on business tax topics.
• Integration with accounting software: It integrates with accounting software such as QuickBooks, making it easy to transfer financial data and minimize the risk of errors or omissions.

This tax software can help businesses streamline their tax filing process, reduce errors and omissions, and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations.

FAQs

Is TaxAct a free tax filing software?

It offers both free and paid versions of its tax filing software. The free version, called TaxAct Free, is available for federal and state tax returns and includes e-filing for federal returns. However, there may be additional fees for certain tax forms or features.

Can I file my taxes electronically using TaxAct?

Yes, it offers e-filing options for both federal and state tax returns. This allows users to file their taxes quickly and securely, without the need for paper forms or mail-in submissions.

Is TaxAct suitable for self-employed individuals?

Yes, it offers a range of features and forms that are specifically designed for self-employed individuals, including Schedule C for reporting business income and expenses and Form 1099-MISC for reporting payments to contractors and freelancers.

Does TaxAct offer any guarantees or assurances regarding the accuracy of its calculations?

Yes, it offers an accuracy guarantee for all calculations performed by its software. If there is an error in TaxAct’s calculations that results in penalties or interest charges, it will reimburse the user for those fees.

How long does it typically take to file taxes using TaxAct?

The time it takes to file taxes will depend on the complexity of the tax return and the amount of information that needs to be entered. However, TaxAct’s user-friendly interface and step-by-step guidance can help users complete their tax returns quickly and efficiently.

What types of tax forms does TaxAct support?

TaxAct supports a wide range of tax forms, including those for individual tax returns, business tax returns, trust and estate tax returns, and nonprofit tax returns. Some forms may be subject to additional fees, depending on the version being used.

Can I import data from other tax software into TaxAct?

Yes, it supports data import from a variety of tax software programs, including TurboTax and H&R Block. This can save users time and reduce the risk of errors or omissions when transferring financial data between software programs.

Does TaxAct offer any tools or resources to help me maximize my tax deductions?

Yes, it offers a variety of tools and resources to help users maximize their tax deductions, including deduction finders, tax calculators, and articles and resources on tax topics. These resources can help users identify deductions they may be eligible for and ensure they are claiming all available tax benefits.

Can I file taxes for multiple states using TaxAct?

Yes, it offers options for filing taxes in multiple states, including support for part-year and nonresident state tax returns. Additional fees may apply, depending on the version of TaxAct being used and the number of states being filed in.

How can I get started with TaxAct?

To get started, users can visit the website and choose the version of the software that best fits their tax filing needs. From there, users can create an account, enter their personal and financial information, and begin completing their tax returns with step-by-step guidance and support from TaxAct’s user-friendly interface.

Conclusion

In conclusion, TaxAct offers a reliable and affordable option for individuals and businesses looking to file their taxes electronically. With a range of features and support for a wide variety of tax forms, TaxAct can help users complete their tax returns quickly and accurately. While there may be additional fees for certain features or forms, TaxAct’s competitive pricing and accuracy guarantee makes it a strong choice for those looking for a cost-effective tax filing solution.

Whether you are a self-employed individual, a small business owner, or just looking to file your personal taxes, TaxAct can provide the tools and resources needed to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.