With tax season here, you may be looking for a reliable tax software to help you file your taxes. TaxSlayer is a popular, cloud-based tax software provider that has been around since 1998. It offers multiple plans that cater to different tax situations and budgets, ranging from the free version to the premium version that includes audit defense.
The Good: User-Friendly Interface
One of the strengths of TaxSlayer is its user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate. The software guides you through the tax preparation process step-by-step and provides clear instructions for every section. You can easily import your W-2 information and other tax forms, and the software will automatically fill in the relevant fields.
The Bad: Limited Customer Support
One of the drawbacks of TaxSlayer is its limited customer support options. While the software does offer email and phone support, it does not offer live chat support or in-person support. This may be a concern for users who prefer to have immediate assistance or who have complex tax situations.
The Good: Affordable Prices
One of the biggest selling points of TaxSlayer is its affordability. The software offers multiple pricing plans, including a free version for simple tax situations and a premium version for more complex tax situations. Even the premium version is reasonably priced and includes features such as audit defense and priority support.
The Bad: Less Features Compared to Competitors
While TaxSlayer offers most of the features you may need to file your taxes, it may not have as many features as its competitors. For example, it does not offer a robust tax preparation checklist or in-app chat support like some other tax software providers. This may be a concern for users who want more comprehensive tax preparation guidance.
The Good: Multiple Plan Options
TaxSlayer offers multiple plan options to cater to different tax situations and budgets. The free version is ideal for those with simple tax situations, such as those who only have W-2 income or dependents. The classic, premium, and self-employed versions are suitable for those with more complex tax situations, including those who are self-employed or have rental income.
The Bad: Limited Imports from Competitors
TaxSlayer does not have as many import options compared to other tax software providers. While it does allow you to import your prior-year tax return from TurboTax and HR Block, it does not allow you to import your prior-year tax return from other providers. This may be a concern for users who do not want to spend time inputting their prior-year tax information manually.
The Good: Mobile App Availability
TaxSlayer offers a mobile app that is available for both iOS and Android users. The app allows you to prepare and file your taxes on-the-go, making it a convenient option for users who are always on the move. The app also syncs with your TaxSlayer account, allowing you to seamlessly switch between your desktop and mobile devices.
The Bad: Limited Forms Available
One of the limitations of TaxSlayer is that it may not have all the forms you need to file your taxes. For example, it does not offer support for foreign earned income or foreign tax credits. This may be a concern for users who have tax situations that are not typical for U.S. residents.
The Good: Easy Filing and Payment Options
TaxSlayer allows you to e-file your tax return directly from the software, making it a convenient and fast option for users. The software also offers multiple payment options, including direct deposit and paper check. Additionally, you can pay your tax bill directly from the software using a debit or credit card or from your bank account.
The Bad: Limited State Returns
While TaxSlayer offers support for all 50 states, you may need to pay an additional fee to file your state return. This can add up if you need to file state returns for multiple states. Additionally, the state return feature may not be as comprehensive or user-friendly as the federal return feature, which may be a concern for some users.
The Bottom Line: Is TaxSlayer Worth It?
TaxSlayer is a solid tax software provider that offers multiple plans to cater to different tax situations and budgets. Its user-friendly interface, affordable prices, and mobile app availability are some of its strengths. Its limited customer support, fewer features compared to competitors, and limited forms and state returns are some of its drawbacks.
If you have a simple tax situation and want a straightforward and affordable tax software, TaxSlayer may be a good option for you. If you have a more complex tax situation or want more comprehensive tax preparation guidance, you may want to consider other tax software providers.
FAQs
1. Can I import my prior-year tax return from other providers with TaxSlayer?
No, TaxSlayer only allows you to import your prior-year tax return from TurboTax and Hamp;R Block, not from other providers.
2. Does TaxSlayer offer live chat support?
No, TaxSlayer does not offer live chat support. You can only contact its customer support team via email or phone.
3. Is TaxSlayer suitable for self-employed users?
Yes, TaxSlayer offers a self-employed version that is suitable for users with self-employment income or other business income.
4. Does TaxSlayer offer support for foreign earned income or foreign tax credits?
No, TaxSlayer does not offer support for foreign earned income or foreign tax credits.
5. Is TaxSlayer’s state return feature comprehensive?
The state return feature may not be as comprehensive or user-friendly as the federal return feature. Additionally, you may need to pay an additional fee to file your state return.
6. Does TaxSlayer offer audit defense?
Yes, the premium version of TaxSlayer includes audit defense, which helps you in case of an audit by the IRS.
7. Can I pay my tax bill directly from TaxSlayer?
Yes, you can pay your tax bill directly from TaxSlayer using a debit or credit card or from your bank account.
8. Does TaxSlayer offer a mobile app?
Yes, TaxSlayer offers a mobile app that is available for both iOS and Android users.
9. Is TaxSlayer’s customer support team available on weekends?
No, TaxSlayer’s customer support team is only available on weekdays, not on weekends or holidays.
10. Does TaxSlayer offer in-person support?
No, TaxSlayer does not offer in-person support. You can only contact its customer support team via email or phone.
Conclusion
TaxSlayer is a solid tax software provider that offers affordable pricing and a user-friendly interface. While it may not have as many features or import options as its competitors, it may be a good option for users with simple tax situations or those who want a straightforward tax software. Its multiple plan options and easy filing and payment options make it a convenient choice for many users.
