
There are half a dozen or more online tax services that promise to deliver maximum tax refunds with minimal frustation. The promises are identical, but the process and the costs are not. When comparing the well-known brands, TaxSlayer stands out among the crowd of online tax services because of the value. To put it bluntly, TaxSlayer is the most cost-effective option for all taxpayers.
No matter how simple or complicated the return, TaxSlayer delivers major savings. Just like the other guys, there are four levels of service—Simply Free, Classic, Premium, and Self-Employed. TaxSlayer’s free option only works for the most basic tax returns (to find out more, check out our complete tax software comparison). But TaxSlayer’s real value comes when you step up to the next level. That’s when TaxSlayer can save you 31% or more over the other guys.

Depending on your needs, TaxSlayer is either free or a better value than TurboTax, H&R Block, and Jackson Hewitt.
TaxSlayer's Simply Free service is just that: simple and free if you only need to fill out a Basic 1040 form. Here's a look at all the details you need to know:
- Cost: $0 for a federal and state return
- Who it's for: single filers with no dependents (no kids under 18); great for college students
- Tax forms supported: 1040
- Deductions included: student loan interest and education credits
- Added benefits: unlimited phone and email support
This is TaxSlayer's most-popular product. And unlike its competitors, TaxSlayer includes all supported credits, deductions, tax forms, and schedules at this low price. This is the option that the vast majority of American taxpayers need, and TaxSlayer delivers for the lowest price.
- Cost: $17 for a federal return + $29 for state; $46 total
- Who it's for: married couples, parents, homeowners, and more
- Tax forms supported: all of them (at no extra cost)
- Deductions included: all of them, including children and dependents, homeowner, retirement income, interest, dividends, and investments
- Added benefits: Speed—import your W-2 and TaxSlayer will autofill all the forms that it can
Do you want or need extra reassurance that you've done everything correctly? TaxSlayer's Premium service connects you with tax experts on the spot so you can be sure you'll get the maximum refund.
- Cost: $37 for a federal return + $29 for state; $66 total
- Who it's for: married couples, parents, homeowners, and more
- Tax forms supported: all of them (at no extra cost)
- Deductions included: all of them, including children and dependents, homeowner, retirement income, interest, dividends, and investments
- Added benefits: Complete peace of mind—skip the line for priority help when you need to ask a question, plus IRS audit assistance for up to three years after you file.
Do you own your own business or freelance on the side? TaxSlayer knows your tax needs are more complicated than most, so it offers guidance for your unique tax situation.
- Cost: $47 for a federal return + $29 for state; $76 total
- Who it's for: contractors, freelancers, small-business owners claiming the 20% pass-through deduction
- Tax forms supported: 1099
- Deductions included: all of them, including a self-employed deduction finder
- Added benefits: Year-round reminders that help you keep up with your quarterly payments and avoid unneccessary fees
Choosing the best online tax service is nearly impossible because there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for every situation. But without a doubt, Groupon Coupons can recommend TaxSlayer to anyone who wants to file their tax return for less. That means more tax refund money for everything else.
This post is sponsored by TaxSlayer.