1040.com review
A focused choice for complex US returns, with free and $34.99 filing options.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
1040.com is online personal tax preparation software for US taxpayers with more involved filing needs. It supports employees, contractors, investors, rental-property owners, and people with multiple states. The product handles federal and state return preparation and e-filing, including Schedule C self-employment filing, investment and stock transaction reporting, and rental income and expenses through Schedule E. Walkthrough guidance covers deductions and credits, while a free return preview lets filers review the return before payment. Its established history, with a founding year of 1977, adds context for buyers seeking a mature tax software provider.
Pricing is straightforward for the standard product: the 1040.com plan costs $34.99 as a one-time payment and includes both federal and state returns. It also includes Schedule C filing, a free return preview, and email and chat support. Eligible taxpayers have a separate Free File Edition that provides free federal filing; state filing may also be free where participating states allow it. That distinction matters for filers comparing the free option with the standard plan, particularly when a state return is required.
The feature set is aimed at the core complications of personal filing rather than a narrow wage-only return. Error checking before e-filing, refund tracking after federal acceptance, two-factor authentication, and audit support add useful coverage around submission and follow-up. 1040.com should suit established US filers who need self-employment, investment, rental, or multi-state support without a recurring price. Taxpayers eligible for Free File can start there, while anyone who needs state filing outside participating Free File states should consider the standard $34.99 plan.
1040.com pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Federal and state returns are included in the $34.99 plan.
- Supports Schedule C, investments, and rental real estate reporting.
- Error checking, refund tracking, and audit support cover key filing needs.
- Where it doesn't
- The Free File Edition is limited to eligible taxpayers.
- Free File state filing depends on participating states.
- The standard product is available through the web platform.
1040.com fact sheet, pricing and score →
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