TaxAct review
A broad US tax filing option with free entry, paid coverage, and expert help.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
TaxAct is US tax preparation software for individuals, self-employed filers, and small businesses. It provides guided federal and state return preparation through web, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, with support for standard returns, homeowners, investments, rental income, freelance work, and gig income. Tax document photo and file uploads, cross-device progress saving, refund and accuracy guarantees, optional live tax expert assistance, and an Audit Defense option give it a wide scope for filers whose needs extend beyond a basic return.
Pricing is divided between online and desktop plans. The Free plan covers eligible standard federal returns, W-2 and unemployment income, and student and child tax credits. Online Deluxe costs $59.99 one-time and adds home ownership, child and dependent care, and Health Savings Account support. Premier costs $99.99 for investment sales, crypto, sale of home, and rental income, while Self-Employed costs $109.99 for freelance, contract, rideshare, gig, and sole proprietor income. Desktop plans start at $44.99 for Basic Desktop and reach $164.99 for Self Employed Desktop; desktop tiers include five federal e-files. State filing is an additional charge.
TaxAct’s main strength is breadth across filing situations and devices rather than a narrow focus on simple returns. The tier structure lets standard filers start free, while paid plans cover investments, rental property, and self-employment. The trade-off is that meaningful coverage for several common tax situations requires upgrading, and live expert assistance costs extra. Choose TaxAct if you want multi-device access and support for varied US income types; consider another option if your priority is keeping every filing feature within a free plan.
TaxAct pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports investment, crypto, rental, and self-employment returns
- Works across web, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
- Offers uploads, cross-device saving, expert help, and Audit Defense
- Where it doesn't
- State filing is an additional charge
- Important return types require paid plans
- Live expert assistance is an add-on
TaxAct fact sheet, pricing and score →
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