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Tax software does one thing: it helps you file and prepare your tax return accurately.
This is the goal eFile gets the job done for a lower price than TurboTaxOr H&R Block. Its services are more compact and streamlined than industry heavyweights, making it less overwhelming. There are some limitations to the service, including a free option for federal taxes.
You will not need to have a CPA help you prepare your personal tax returns. eFile is worth considering.
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Here’s a look at how eFile works, how much it costs, and who it’s best for.
If you prize affordability and are confident in your tax knowledge, eFile is a good option for preparing your tax return.
It applies to the same tax situations. TurboTax H&R Block for a fraction of the price. However, there are tradeoffs. A lower price means fewer desirable features such as expert access, document upload time-savings, and modern interface.
Tax filers who know they would have to pay for upper-tier products from TurboTax or H&R Block — i.e. they have itemized deductions or self-employment income, for example — will save money with eFile.
eFile offers three online do it yourself plans. The highest-tier plan is less expensive than either. TurboTax H&R BlockIf you don’t want to pay for the free plans, then this is your lowest-tier offer.
As with other software providers eFile allows you to create an account and start preparing your return for free — you don’t pay until you file. Unlike other platforms, eFile doesn’t force you to select a package from the beginning. The platform will choose the package that best suits your needs as you add tax forms.
What are the costs of DIY options?
- Basics Free $0.If you have less than $100,000 in taxable income, such as W-2 income, or unemployment income, the free plan is available to you. Upgrade if you have any other income such as investment income or freelance income. Earned income tax credit. This plan does not support joint or single filing.
- Deluxe: $29.You’ll be able to use Deluxe if there are dependents, a mortgage or retirement income. However, your taxable income must still be below $100,000
- Premier: $39.This plan is available to anyone with at least $100,000 in taxable income from any source.
Additional fees may apply for…
- State filing is necessary.Even if you are eligible for the Free Basic plan, eFile charges $32 per unlimited state return. Many of its competitors charge higher fees for each return.
eFileThe company prides itself in offering affordable, quick, and simple software to file your taxes online. To get started, all you need is an account. To speed up the data entry, however, it does not permit document upload. This feature can be found at H&R Block TurboTaxIt can save you time and be very efficient if you have incomes from several sources.
eFile is similar to other platforms. It uses a guided, question-and-answer format for filling out returns. If you know exactly what you are looking for, you can jump to other forms. You can stop at any point and all data will be saved.
Bonus: eFile’s tax approach is lighter than other competitors. Think: Songs and videos to “de-stress”.
Yes. eFile is a safe and reliable website for preparing individual income tax returns that’s authorized by the IRS.
Data encryption protects your information. You will also need multi-factor authentication to log in to verify you identity.
A site like This Site is better if you value affordability more than anything else. FreeTax USAIf you have a complex return
eFile offers very little customer support. You cannot speak with a tax professional by phone or via video chat, even if you pay an additional fee. Email is the only way to contact an expert. It can take several days for a response.
It is also important to note that eFile doesn’t have an app and the website is not mobile-friendly. eFile is not the best option if you need to file from your smartphone.
Laura Grace Tarpley contributed reporting.
