TaxSlayer is not well known as some of the big brands but they have a good product. But they are no newcomer; the business started back in 1992. They offer a slick user experience and a price point that is lower than most of their competition. Read our TaxSlayer review to see what they have to offer.
TaxSlayer Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to use interface
- Great price compared to big-name competitors
Cons
- Free version will only file the 1040EZ
- Tech support is free but support from a tax professional only comes in the most expensive package or as an add-on
TaxSlayer Review
TaxSlayer is budget software that packs a lot of value in. While they aren’t as well know as names like TurboTax or H&R Block, they are definitely worth looking into. And like TaxAct, they offer a totally free version that will file both federal and state taxes if you’re eligible for the 1040EZ.
Features
One of the most surprising aspects of TaxSlayer is that while it’s budget-priced it doesn’t look or perform like it. Generally, the first element that gets cut with lower priced software is the user experience.
With TaxSlayer you can import W2s or you can take pictures of them and they will be entered automatically, saving a lot of time and potential mistakes from keying them in. You can access TaxSlayer from anywhere, as well, since it’s hosted online.
Cost
The price is one of the biggest selling points to TaxSlayer. Not only do they have a totally free version that is quite good but their most expensive package is only $67 total for both federal and state filing.
Below you’ll find a list of their standard online prep offerings:
TaxSlayer Packages and Prices
| Free | Federal: $0 State: $0 File your state and federal 1040EZ with the free version. You'll have email and phone tech support but if you want tax support you'll have to pay $34.99. |
| Classic | Federal: $22 State: $27 The Classic version is for those that need to itemize, declare rental income or report self-employment income. You'll have the same support as the free version, with the option to upgrade for $34.99. |
| Premium | Federal: $40 State: $27 Premium includes all that Classic does with audit assistance, tax professional support and priority tech support. |
Support
If you’re stuck, TaxSlayer offers an online knowledge base to answer general questions. This is pretty standard with all the tax prep programs.
You’ll also get free email and phone support with all versions of TaxSlayer, but keep in mind the free support is only technical support. They won’t be able to answer any of your questions about your taxes.
If you find yourself in need of actual tax support you’ll need to buy the tax support add-on for $39.99. If you’re using the Premium version this tax support is already included in the price.
Audit Protection
TaxSlayer Premium comes with audit assistance. With this TaxSlayer will help you prepare and give you guidance on what to expect in the upcoming audit. Users of the Free or Classic versions can but the audit assistance package for $28.99.
You can’t get an audit defense package through TaxSlayer. Audit defense means they would actually represent you in front of the IRS.
Getting Your Refund
You can get your refund direct deposited into your bank account or sent as a paper check in the mail. You can also have it applied to your next year’s taxes or have the IRS purchase U.S. savings bonds with your refund.
TaxSlayer can also put your funds on an American Express prepaid debit card. If you’re using a paid version of the program you can opt to pay for it out of your return at an additional cost of $19.
TaxSlayer Reviews From Around the Web
| Better Business Bureau |  3.23/5 - 2 Reviews |
| Nerd Wallet |  4/5 |
| PC Mag |  3/5 |
Business Contact and Profile for TaxSlayer
| Name: | TaxSlayer |
| Phone: | (706) 868-2333 |
| Address: | 3003 TaxSlayer Dr Evans, GA 30809-7614 |
| Website: | TaxSlayer.com |
| Business Started: | 1992 |
| Type of Business: | Tax Software |
| Principal: | Mr. Brian Rhodes, President |
| BBB Accreditation: | This organization is BBB accredited - A- rating |