The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025).
Looking for an inexpensive tax filing option doesn’t mean you should have a low-quality experience. You should not have to compromise on getting every tax break you deserve and knowing you’re filing a 100% accurate return.
TaxSlayer guarantees both while also providing easy-to-follow instructions and reliable support when you need help – all at a price you’re comfortable with.
Filing with TaxSlayer is a bargain compared to other solutions. There is an option for every tax filer and every budget.
How much does it cost to file taxes with TaxSlayer?
With TaxSlayer, you can electronically file a federal tax return for $0 with Simply Free – see if you qualify. If your tax situation doesn’t qualify, you can still save big with TaxSlayer. We offer a range of options designed to provide you with the tools and support you need at the best value, all for less than the other guys.
| Product: | Cost per federal return: | Best for: |
| Simply Free | $0 for a federal return | College students, single or married filers with no dependents, reporting W-2 and unemployment income only |
| Classic | $37.95 for a federal return | Homeowners, individuals with dependents, all tax situations covered |
| Premium | $57.95 for a federal return | Filers who need some help from a tax pro or prefer live chat, those who want extra assistance in case of an audit |
| Self-Employed | $67.95 for a federal return | Individuals with 1099 income, side hustlers, small business owners, independent consultants, and contractors |
What is the cheapest way to file taxes online with TaxSlayer?
TaxSlayer Classic offers a great value, bang for your buck option at $37.95. The primary difference between Simply Free and Classic is that Classic includes all the tax forms you could possibly need for any tax situation – no restrictions.
What IRS tax forms can I file with TaxSlayer Classic?
Many platforms charge additional fees based on the forms you need to file, potentially leading to unexpected expenses depending on the income and deductions you report. However, with TaxSlayer Classic, you won’t have to worry about that. TaxSlayer Classic includes all the forms needed to file for any tax situation, including:
- Form 1040 Individual Income Tax Return
- Form W-2 Wages and Taxes
- Schedule A Itemized Deductions
- Schedule B Interest and Dividend Income
- Schedule D Capital Gains/Losses
- Schedule C / Schedule C-EZ Profit/Loss from Business
- Schedule E Rental and Royalty Income
- Schedule EIC Earned Income Credit
- Schedule SE Self-Employment Tax
- Schedule 1 Additional Income and Adjustments to Income
- Schedule 2 Additional Taxes
- Schedule 3 Additional Credits and Payments
- Schedule F Profit or Loss From Farming
- Schedule H (1040) Household Employment Taxes
- Schedule K-1(1065) Distributions Partnership
- Schedule K-1(1041) Distributions Partnership
- Schedule K-1(1120-S) Shareholders Share of Income
- Schedule R Credit for the Elderly
- Form 1040V Payment Voucher
- Form 1040X 1040 Amended Tax Return
- Form 1040ES Estimated Tax for Individuals
- Form 1098 Mortgage Interest Statement
- Form 1098-C Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, or Airplanes
- Form 1098-E Student Loan Interest Statement
- Form 1098-T Tuition and Fees Statement
- Form 1099-B Broker
- Form 1099-C Cancellation of Debt
- Form 1099-DIV Dividends and Distributions
- Form 1099-INT Interest Income
- Form 1099-G Certain Government Payments such as Unemployment Compensation or State and Local Refunds
- Form 1099-K Merchant Card and Third-Party Network Payments
- Form 1099-MISC Miscellaneous Income
- Form 1099-OID Original Issue Discount
- Form 1099-Q Payments From Qualified Education Programs
- Form 1099-R Retirement
- Form 1099-S Proceeds from Real Estate Transactions
- Form 1099-SA Distributions from an HSA, Archer MSA, or Medicare Advantage MSA
- Form 1099-SSA Social Security
- Form 1116 Foreign Tax Credit
- Form 1310 Statement of Person Claiming Refund Due a Deceased Taxpayer
- Form 2106 Employee Business Expense
- Form 2210 (Short Method Only) Underpayment of Estimated Tax
- Form 2441 Child Care Expenses
- Form 2555 Foreign Earned Income
- Form 3468 Investment Credit
- Form 3800 General Business Credit
- Form 3903 Moving Expenses
- Form 4137 Tax on Unreported Tip Income
- Form 4562 Depreciation and Amortization
- Form 4868 Extension of Time to File
- Form 4684 Casualty Loss and Theft
- Form 4797 Sales of Business Property/Assets
- Form 4835 Farm Rental Income and Expenses
- Form 4952 Investment Interest Expense Deduction
- Form 5405 First-time Homebuyer Credit
- Form 5329 Additional Taxes on Qualified Plans (Including IRAs) and Other Tax-Favored Accounts
- Form 5498 IRA Contribution Individuals
- Form 5498-SA HSA, Archer MSA, or Medicare Advantage MSA
- Form 5695 Residential Energy Credits
- Form 6251 Alternative Minimum Tax
- Form 6252 Installment Sales
- Form 6765 Credit for Increasing Research Activities from Pass-through Entities
- Form 6781 Gains and Losses from Section 1256 Contracts
- Form 8283 Non-Cash Contributions
- Form 8379 Injured Spouse
- Form 8396 Mortgage Interest Credit
- Form 8582 Passive Activity
- Form 8606 Nondeductible IRAs
- Form 8615 Tax for Children Under Age 14
- Form 8812 Additional Child Care Expenses
- Form 8814 Parents’ Election To Report Child’s Interest and Dividends
- Form 8815 Exclusion of Interest from Series EE and I U.S. Savings Bonds
- Form 8829 Business Use of Home
- Form 8839 Qualified Adoption Expenses
- Form 8853 Archer MSAs and Long-Term Care Insurance Contracts
- Form 8859 DC First-Time Homebuyer Credit
- Form 8862 Information to Claim Earned Income Credit After Disallowance
- Form 8863 Education Credit (American Opportunity, Hope and Lifetime Learning Credits)
- Form 8880 Retirement Credit
- Form 8888 Direct Deposit of Refund
- Form 8889 Health Savings Accounts
- Form 8901Information on Qualifying Children who are not dependents
- Form 8903 Domestic Production Activities Deduction
- Form 8910 Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit
- Form 8936 Qualified Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit
- Form 8949 Sales and Other Dispositions of Capital Assets
- Form 8960 Net Investment Income Tax Individuals, Estates, and Trusts
- Form 982 Reduction of Tax Attributes Due to Discharge of Indebtedness
- Form W-2G Gambling Winnings
- Form 8965 Health Coverage Exemptions
- Form 8962 Premium Tax Credit
Tips for lowering the cost to file taxes
Some taxpayers believe hiring a tax preparer is the easiest and best way to ensure accuracy and maximize their refund. However, using a platform like TaxSlayer allows you to file your taxes yourself with accuracy and maximum refund guarantees – all while saving significant money.
DIY programs automate calculations to reduce the risk of math errors and guide you through the process with straightforward questions to make sure your forms are filled out correctly.
Electronic tax filing, also known as e-filing, is the IRS preferred method as it is fast, accurate, and secure. Additionally, hiring a tax preparer can cost hundreds of dollars, whereas TaxSlayer offers more affordable options, including free federal filing for qualifying users.
Why you may need to file with TaxSlayer Classic instead of Simply Free
Simply Free is our most basic tax filing option that allows people who meet the eligibility requirements to file their taxes for $0. But when you add dependents, itemize your deductions, or have certain sources of income, your tax situation is more complex and requires additional IRS forms.
If you don’t qualify for Simply Free and need to switch to Classic, your info will be carried over automatically, so you don’t lose any progress.
Before you submit your taxes electronically to the IRS, you will be notified if your return must be filed with Classic. You can choose how to make your payment at checkout, and you may be able to add a TaxSlayer promo code.
If you’re receiving a tax refund, you have the option to pay with your refund if you don’t want to come out of pocket when you file. Are you ready to see how much you can save with TaxSlayer? Create an account and start filing for free today!
Frequently asked questions about cheap ways to file taxes online
What is the best free tax filing program?
TaxSlayer Simply Free is a great option for those who need the basics when it comes to filing taxes. With Simply Free, you can file a federal tax return at no cost to you.
Is it cheaper to pay someone to do your taxes?
It depends on the complexity of your tax situation and the tax preparer’s rates. But you can take the time out of finding and vetting a local tax professional and save money filing with TaxSlayer.
With TaxSlayer Premium, you get the benefits of having extra help from a tax pro with the ease of online filing from the comfort of your own home.
Is it worth getting your taxes done at TaxSlayer?
If you want your tax return to be 100% accurate and save money while you’re at it, TaxSlayer is right for you. Get the best value for all your tax needs.
Does it cost more to file taxes electronically?
No, the IRS and U.S. states do not charge for e-filing. The only things you must pay for are the costs associated with the tax filing software you use and any other features you choose to add when you file. TaxSlayer is committed to giving you the right tools at the right price. Don’t overpay for the refund you deserve.
Need more reasons to file electronically? Check out 5 Advantages of E-filing Your Taxes
Do I have to file taxes every year?
It depends on how your income and financial circumstances change each year. Generally, the requirement to file a tax return depends on your age, filing status, income level, and dependency status.
