OpenTax
OpenTax: A transparent, self-hostable tax preparer for technical users who value control. Ranked #17 of 32 in AI Tax Software by our editors (6.8/10); pricing: Free plan; best for technical users wanting open tax software.
At a glance
- Editor score6.8 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forTechnical users wanting open tax software
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Taxpayer typesPersonal
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free forever with every feature included and no account required
- Traceable calculations link values to source documents and IRS rules
- Web, API, and self-hosted access with OpenClaw agent tools
Where it doesn't
- Electronic filing is not currently supported
- State preparation is limited to supported states
- No expert review or verified deduction discovery
Our verdict on OpenTax
OpenTax is an open-source US tax preparation application for individuals who want transparent computation and control over their tax workflow. It imports W-2s, 1099s, and other tax documents, then guides users through a tax interview covering federal and supported state returns. The application generates IRS-ready PDFs for printing and mailing and includes paper filing guidance. Its computation runs locally in the browser, making the product particularly relevant to technical users who prefer open software, self-hosting, or programmatic access.
Pricing is straightforward: the Free plan costs $0 and is free forever. It includes open-source tax preparation, all features, and no account requirement, so there is no paid tier to evaluate or upgrade into. The published plan also covers document import, guided preparation, deterministic tax computation, supported-state preparation, PDF generation, and the OpenClaw plugin. This makes OpenTax a strong fit for individuals seeking a fully available free workflow rather than a limited trial or a product that reserves core preparation features for paid plans.
The product’s standout strength is traceability. Calculations are linked to source documents and IRS rules, while deterministic computation provides a defined basis for reviewing results. Its platform fit is also broader than a browser-only tool: OpenTax supports web, API, and self-hosted use, with REST, SSE, and 16 agent tools available through the OpenClaw plugin for AI-assisted preparation. The tradeoff is filing scope and guidance depth. Electronic filing is not currently supported, and the product does not include expert review or verified deduction discovery. Choose OpenTax if transparency, local computation, and integration flexibility matter most; choose an alternative if electronic filing or professional deduction review is central to your workflow.
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OpenTax pricing
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OpenTax fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Taxpayer types | Personal |
| AI tax guidance | Yes |
| Document import | Yes |
| Deduction finding | Not verified |
| Expert review | Not verified |
| Filing support | Both |
| Return limit | Not verified |
| Deployment | Self-hosted, Browser extension |
| Platforms | Web |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 3 integrations: OpenClaw, REST API, SSE |
| Pricing | Free plan (source) |
| Website | opentax.evokelab.ai |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
OpenTax integrations
OpenTax lists 3 integrations on its own site.
- OpenClaw
- REST API
- SSE
Alternatives to OpenTax
- TurboTaxA mature US tax filing choice with broad support and paid tiers for complex returns.9.3
- H&R Block OnlineA broad filing service for US taxpayers who want online tools plus human help.9.1
- TaxActBroad U.S. filing coverage with web, desktop, and mobile options.8.8
See all OpenTax alternatives →
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Featured on iTechGuides
OpenTax is listed in our AI Tax Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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