TurboTax vs TaxSlayer
Compare TurboTax and TaxSlayer to decide between premium and budget tax software. See pricing, features, and which is better for your 2025 tax return.
TurboTax
The top-tier tax software with the most comprehensive features, best-in-class interface, and deepest integration ecosystem. Commands the highest prices in the market for its premium experience.
TaxSlayer
A fast, affordable tax software covering all major tax situations from simple returns to self-employment. Offers significant savings over premium competitors while maintaining accuracy and speed.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Category | TurboTax | TaxSlayer | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Price | $69 federal + $59 per state | $22.95 federal + $39.95 per state | |
| Self-Employed Price | $129 federal + $59 per state | $52.95 federal + $39.95 per state | |
| User Interface | Premium guided experience with contextual assistance | Fast and efficient; less guidance | |
| Data Import | 1M+ employer W-2 imports, all major brokerages | W-2 import available; fewer integrations | |
| Self-Employed Features | Industry-specific deductions, QuickBooks integration | Standard Schedule C support; no accounting integration | |
| Expert Access | TurboTax Live from $139 with CPA/EA review | Ask a Tax Pro with Premium tier ($42.95) | |
| Mobile App | Best-in-class mobile filing app | Good native app for iOS and Android | |
| Filing Speed | Thorough but slower guided process | Known for fast, streamlined filing | |
| Military Support | Discount for military; not fully free | Free federal filing for active duty military | |
| Accuracy Guarantee | $10,000 accuracy guarantee | 100% accuracy guarantee |
The Verdict
TaxSlayer offers comparable accuracy at roughly one-third the price of TurboTax. TurboTax provides a significantly better experience with superior imports, more guidance, and deeper integrations. For experienced filers and those with straightforward returns, TaxSlayer's savings are hard to ignore. Complex self-employed situations may benefit from TurboTax's specialized tools.
Choose TurboTax if...
First-time filers who want maximum guidance, self-employed individuals with complex deductions, and anyone with extensive investment portfolios needing automated brokerage imports.
Choose TaxSlayer if...
Experienced filers who know their tax situation, active duty military members, and anyone who wants to file quickly without paying premium prices.