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Taxslayer vs Turbotax
Tax filing software has become a must for many of us and two names that always stand out are TaxSlayer and TurboTax. Both have their strengths but they take very different approaches when it comes to cost, guidance and overall user experience.
TurboTax is probably the most well known and for good reason. It offers a smooth step by step process that makes filing feel less overwhelming. The explanations and tips it provides along the way are very detailed which can be a big help for anyone nervous about making mistakes. The main issue is price, especially if you have anything more complex than a simple W2 return, the cost adds up fast.
TaxSlayer positions itself as a more affordable alternative. It may not feel as polished or guided as TurboTax but it delivers solid results without the heavy price tag. For people who already have some experience with filing, the simpler layout and lower fees can make it a strong choice.
Another thing worth noting is that both platforms offer mobile versions, so you can file from your phone or tablet. TurboTax has a slightly sleeker app experience, while TaxSlayer keeps it more basic but still functional. For people who like filing on the go this can also play a role in choosing which one feels right.
I am leaning toward trying one of these two this tax season. If you have used either recently i would be interested to hear how your experience went and if you felt the cost matched the value.
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22 Replies
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I used TurboTax for years and liked the guidance but i noticed the fees kept creeping up. Once i had to file self employment income the cost almost doubled. That is when i tried TaxSlayer. It felt more basic but it got the job done just fine. For me the savings outweighed the polish TurboTax offers.
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TurboTax has always impressed me with how simple it makes the process. Even when i had a complicated return it walked me through step by step without much stress. But i do agree the price tag is high. TaxSlayer is tempting just because i do not need all the hand holding anymore.
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I filed with TaxSlayer last year because i wanted to cut down on costs. It worked but i missed some of the small details TurboTax points out like deductions i may qualify for. If you are confident and already know what to expect TaxSlayer is fine. If not TurboTax might still be safer.
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TurboTax feels like the iPhone of tax software. It looks great it is easy to use but you are paying a premium for that smooth design. TaxSlayer is more like Android: a little rougher around the edges but cheaper and customizable. Depends on which type of person you are.
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I do not think you can go wrong with either but it really depends on how complex your taxes are. If you are self employed or own property TurboTax is worth the money for the peace of mind. For simple returns TaxSlayer is more than enough and saves a lot of cash.
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I tried TaxSlayer once when i was short on funds and honestly it surprised me. It did not look as flashy as TurboTax but my return was accepted quickly with no issues. The lower price really made it worth it. I think the only reason people stick to TurboTax is brand recognition.
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One thing i like about TurboTax is the ability to import forms directly from employers or investment accounts. That feature saves a lot of typing. TaxSlayer does not have as many integration options so you end up entering more info manually. That is something to keep in mind.
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TaxSlayer has been my go to for the last three years. It is straightforward and cheap which is all i really care about. TurboTax is definitely smoother but i cannot justify paying that much just to see a prettier interface. In the end both submit to the IRS the same way.
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I think TurboTax is the better option if you are new to filing and nervous about making mistakes. The explanations make it feel like you have someone guiding you. For experienced filers, though, TaxSlayer can save a lot of money without sacrificing accuracy.
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Last year i actually used both. I started with TurboTax but stopped halfway because of the price once i hit the self employment section. I switched to TaxSlayer and filed successfully. The main difference was TurboTax felt easier but TaxSlayer saved me about a hundred bucks.
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For me mobile experience matters because i usually file on my phone. TurboTax has a slicker app that is easier to use with fewer glitches. TaxSlayer works but feels clunky at times. If you care about filing on the go TurboTax might be better.
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My dad swears by TaxSlayer because he has been using it since it was first introduced. He says it reminds him of the older tax software that just gave you the forms to fill out. TurboTax in his words is “too chatty” but i guess some people like that extra guidance.
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I honestly think TurboTax is overpriced but i still end up using it because of habit. I know exactly where everything is and how it flows. Switching feels like a hassle even though i know TaxSlayer would be cheaper. Sometimes convenience wins.
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TaxSlayer is underrated. I run a small side business and it handled my self employment taxes just fine. The process was not as fancy but it worked. TurboTax would have charged me much more for the same thing so i felt like i got a better deal.
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The way i see it TurboTax is paying for peace of mind. If you worry a lot about doing something wrong, it might be worth it. If you are confident and already know the basics of your taxes, TaxSlayer will save you money and get the same result.
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