FreeTaxUSA vs Jackson Hewitt: Which Tax Service Should You Choose?
Last updated 09/10/2025 by
Ante MazalinEdited by
Andrew LathamSummary:
FreeTaxUSA and Jackson Hewitt both help taxpayers file returns, but they take very different approaches. FreeTaxUSA is a low-cost online service with free federal filing and affordable state returns. Jackson Hewitt, on the other hand, is known for its nationwide in-person tax offices, satisfaction guarantees, and refund advances. Choosing between them depends on whether you want the lowest cost or the reassurance of in-person tax preparation.
Compare Tax Preparation Services
Compare multiple vetted providers. Discover your best option.
Quick Comparison: FreeTaxUSA vs. Jackson Hewitt
Here’s how FreeTaxUSA and Jackson Hewitt compare on core features:
| Feature | FreeTaxUSA | Jackson Hewitt |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Basic Price | $0 | $0 |
| Federal Standard Price | $0 | $49.95 |
| Federal Premium Price | $6.99 | $49.99 |
| Federal Basic + State Price | $12.95 | $49.99 |
| State Return Price | $12.95 | $36.99 |
| State Return Availability | $15.99 | $0 - $36.99 |
| Filing Options | File Online | File Online, In-Person at Offices, Walmart Kiosks |
| Software Offerings | Web Browser-Based, Desktop Software | Web Browser-Based, In-Person Services |
| Tax Preparation Types | Personal | Business, Personal |
| Tax Prep Differentiators | Automatic Error Detection, Deduction Finder, Audit Support | In-Person Offices, Refund Advance Loans, Satisfaction Guarantee |
| SuperMoney User Score | mostly recommended | strongly not recommended |
About FreeTaxUSA
FreeTaxUSA is an affordable online tax filing platform offering free federal filing for all taxpayers and low-cost state returns. It appeals to DIY filers who want to save money while still accessing features like error detection and optional audit support.
- Free Federal Filing: Covers all return types, not just simple ones.
- Low-Cost State Filing: Flat fee per state return.
- Deluxe Upgrade: Adds audit support and live chat.
- User-Friendly: Simple, affordable, and designed for DIY tax prep.
About Jackson Hewitt
Jackson Hewitt is one of the largest tax preparation companies in the U.S., offering both online and in-person filing through thousands of offices and Walmart locations. It is known for its guarantees, refund advance loans, and professional support.
- Nationwide Offices: In-person tax preparation across the U.S.
- Guarantees: 100% accuracy and maximum refund guarantees.
- Refund Advance: Offers loans against expected refunds.
- Business & Personal: Supports both individuals and small businesses.
Ease of Use & Interface
FreeTaxUSA is built for simplicity and low cost, offering a clean but basic interface. Jackson Hewitt offers a more guided process, but many customers rely on tax pros in person, which adds convenience but increases costs.
Support Options Compared
Jackson Hewitt leads in support with in-person offices, Walmart kiosks, and tax pros on call. FreeTaxUSA offers online help and live chat (with Deluxe upgrade), but lacks in-person service.
Refund Options
FreeTaxUSA offers standard direct deposit refunds, while Jackson Hewitt provides refund advances and prepaid card options in addition to direct deposit, making it attractive for filers who want money quickly.
Key Differences (Updated 2026)
- Federal Basic Price: FreeTaxUSA starts at $0, while Jackson Hewitt begins at $0.
- Federal Premium Price: FreeTaxUSA charges $6.99, compared to Jackson Hewitt at $49.99.
- State Filing: FreeTaxUSA’s state returns cost $12.95, while Jackson Hewitt charges $36.99.
- Filing Options: FreeTaxUSA is online-only, while Jackson Hewitt offers in-person services nationwide.
- SuperMoney User Score: FreeTaxUSA is rated mostly recommended, while Jackson Hewitt scores strongly not recommended.
Who Is Each Service Best For?
- FreeTaxUSA is best for: Budget-conscious DIY filers who want free federal filing and affordable state returns with simple online tools.
- Jackson Hewitt is best for: Filers who want in-person tax preparation, refund advances, and strong guarantees. Great for complex returns or anyone uncomfortable filing alone.
Side-by-Side: Support, Refunds, Ease of Use & Reviews
| Category | FreeTaxUSA | Jackson Hewitt |
|---|---|---|
| Support Options | Email support; live chat with Deluxe upgrade. No in-person service. | In-person filing at offices and Walmart kiosks, plus professional support and audit help. |
| Refund Options | Direct deposit to bank account; standard IRS timelines. | Direct deposit, prepaid cards, and refund advances available during tax season. |
| Ease of Use | Straightforward online interface with basic design. No mobile app. | Guided process with professional help if needed; better for in-person users. |
| Best For | DIY filers who want free federal filing and low-cost state returns. | Filers who prefer in-person service, refund advances, or hands-on guidance. |
| Customer Reviews | SuperMoney User Score: mostly recommended Affordable and reliable; some want stronger built-in support. | SuperMoney User Score: strongly not recommended Appreciated for in-person offices and guarantees; cost is a frequent complaint. |
What’s Next
Still unsure which platform to choose? Check out their full reviews:
- FreeTaxUSA Review — Learn more about this low-cost online tax prep platform.
- Jackson Hewitt Review — See how it combines in-person support, refund advances, and guarantees.
Explore Other Tax Software Comparisons
- FreeTaxUSA vs TaxAct — Two affordable DIY tax prep platforms compared.
- FreeTaxUSA vs TaxSlayer — Which budget option is better for your filing needs?
- TurboTax vs FreeTaxUSA — Comparing premium guidance with no-cost federal filing.
- FreeTaxUSA vs H&R Block — Affordability compared to full-service support.
- Jackson Hewitt vs H&R Block — Two major names in tax prep head-to-head.
Want to see even more options? Explore our full list of tax preparation services to compare top providers side by side.
Key Takeaways
- FreeTaxUSA is the most affordable option with free federal filing and low-cost state returns.
- Jackson Hewitt offers in-person service, refund advances, and satisfaction guarantees.
- Audit support is optional with FreeTaxUSA, while Jackson Hewitt offers stronger built-in guarantees.
- Choose FreeTaxUSA for budget DIY filing; choose Jackson Hewitt if you want in-person help or refund loans.
FAQ
Is FreeTaxUSA really free?
Yes, FreeTaxUSA provides free federal tax filing for all return types. State returns and Deluxe support cost extra.
Does Jackson Hewitt have free filing?
Jackson Hewitt does not offer fully free federal filing like FreeTaxUSA. Most plans and in-person services require payment.
Which is cheaper: FreeTaxUSA or Jackson Hewitt?
FreeTaxUSA is much cheaper, especially for simple returns. Jackson Hewitt is more expensive but provides professional in-person service and refund advance options.
Which is better for complex tax returns?
Jackson Hewitt is better for complex returns thanks to in-person offices and tax pro support. FreeTaxUSA is ideal for straightforward returns.
Do both offer audit support?
Yes, but in different ways. FreeTaxUSA includes audit assistance with its Deluxe upgrade, while Jackson Hewitt offers strong guarantees and tax pro representation.
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