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Best TaxAct Tax Preparation Software

Updated January 2022
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
TaxAct Premium
TaxAct
Premium
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Bottom Line

Though it's pricier than other options from TaxAct, it's by far the best, and is especially suited for anyone with complex tax returns.

Pros

Includes everything you need for the most comprehensive filing, from investments to charitable donations to audit protection. Handles Schedules C and F, self-employment income, and business deductions. Only costs an additional $37 to file state taxes and import the previous year's returns.

Cons

The priciest option available; but if you have complicated tax returns and want the best support available from the company, you probably won't mind.

Best Bang for the Buck
TaxAct Plus
TaxAct
Plus
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Bottom Line

The next step up for filers who have more than just basic tax returns but don't need additional support for business or self-employed income. A good choice for the majority of filers.

Pros

Whether you own a home, have investments, want to make the most of personal deductions, or itemize your returns, this software has you covered. File state taxes and import a previous year's returns for just $37 more.

Cons

If you have any type of self-employment or freelance income, this software won't suit your needs

TaxAct Freelancer
TaxAct
Freelancer
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Bottom Line

If you are self-employed, a business owner, or have income other than from an employer, this is the software to choose. It also handles basic filing needs such as investments and personal deductions.

Pros

A good choice for anyone who owns a business or is self-employed, as it handles filing needs of those who have complex income filing. Includes Schedules C and F, and business deductions.Only $37 extra to import last year's taxes and to file state.

Cons

If you don't have freelance income or business-related expensive, this choice isn't the best one for you.

TaxAct Free
TaxAct
Free
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Bottom Line

Select this option if you are a basic filer without additional income, investments, self-employment income, or confusing deductions; otherwise it isn't likely to meet your needs.

Pros

A no-brainer for filers with uncomplicated tax returns, as it's easy to use, covers the basics, and is free provided you don't require any extra support or services.

Cons

If you want to import last year's taxes or want to access to a tax professional, there is a $15 fee. Not a good choice if you have investments, freelance income, or other items that require more advanced filing. No state taxes, and audit protection is an additional $49.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
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