Free plans only

6 Best Free Tax Software of 2026

By the Rankozo research desk · Updated November 7, 2026

6 of the 9 tools in our best tax software ranking offer a permanent free plan. FreeTaxUSA scores highest among them at 9.0 out of 10.

01
FreeTaxUSA
Filers with investments, rentals or self-employment income who want the lowest total cost.
Federal return free for all tax situations; $15.99 per state return
Full entry, No. 1 overall
Paid from
$15.99
Score 9.0
02
Cash App Taxes
Cash App users who want federal and state returns filed for $0.
Free federal and state returns; no paid tiers
Full entry, No. 2 overall
Paid from
Free
Score 8.7
03
TaxSlayer
Filers who want every form and paid phone support at a low price.
Simply Free $0 with one state for simple returns; Classic $19.99 federal, state additional; Premium $39.99
Full entry, No. 3 overall
Paid from
$19.99
Score 8.7
04
TurboTax
Filers who want the most guided software and the option of on-demand expert help.
Free Edition for simple Form 1040 returns; Deluxe $79 federal, state additional
Full entry, No. 4 overall
Paid from
$79
Score 8.2
05
TaxAct
Filers who want tiered editions and a free option for active duty military.
See vendor pricing (USD check pending)
Full entry, No. 8 overall
Paid from
Free plan
Score 8.1
06
ezTaxReturn
Filers with a simple federal return who also want callback support.
Free simple federal returns; otherwise $44.99 federal, $45.99 state, $90.98 for both
Full entry, No. 9 overall
Paid from
$44.99
Score 7.5

Scores and prices come from our Best Tax Software ranking, which uses one method for every tool. Questions or corrections: editorial@rankozo.com