eFile Tax Return Services: Free

With the conclusion of the holiday season, tax season is once again upon us. For some, it is the most dreaded time of the year. For those expecting a hefty return, it can be an extremely joyful occasion. However, most will find it difficult enough just to take time out of their busy schedule to complete the task. Not to mention the process of getting the receipts, statements, and other documents in order. With so many services available, how do you decide what tax service is best for you? Here is a quick overview of what you can expect from some low fee or FREE on-line tax filing services

Taxhead.com offers a free e-file tax return service if you are filing 1040A/EZ or file an Earned Income Credit (EIC). If you do not claim an EIC, they charge a fee of $9.95 (if you file before April 1st). After April 1st, they charge $14.95. They also allow you to file a free federal tax extension. However, they do not prepare state tax returns. They do offer assistance in helping you find a free e-file tax return service for your state.

Taxactonline.com offers a free federal e-file tax return service for everyone. If you would like extra federal tax advice and guidance, life event guidance, or College Student Financial Aid Report (FAFSA), they charge a $7.95 fee (Federal Deluxe). With the Federal Deluxe, state returns are $9.00. To file only a state tax return, the fee is $13.95.

IRS.gov offers Free File, a free e-file tax return service if you earned $54,000 or less in 2007. It is also available in Spanish. To access Free File, it must be accessed through the IRS.gov website. They also offer a Federal/State e-file that allows you to file your federal and state returns electronically at the same time. Currently, all except four states requiring a state tax return participate in the program.

Taxslayer.com offers a free e-file tax return service if you are a member of the active duty military. For non-military, they have a classic package that allows you to e-file your state and Federal tax return for $9.95. The premium package is $19.95 and includes additional tax advice, support, and federal audit assistance.

TurboTax.comoffers a free Federal e-file tax return for 1040EZ users. However, if you have to file a state return, they charge $25.95 per state. If you have deductions, the price to file a Federal return rangers from $29.95 to $74.95 and $29.95 per state.

FreeTaxUsa.com offers a free Federal e-file tax return services. To qualify, you must have an AGI of $54,000 or less and live in one of the following states: AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, UT, VA, or WV. However, they do charge $9.95 to prepare, e-file, and print your state income tax return. For those that do not qualify for the free Federal e-file tax return service, the price is $9.95.

TaxEngine.com offers the option of filing a state or Federal e-file tax return for $19.95. If you need to file both, the cost is just $29.95.

Taxhawk.com offers a free federal e-file tax return service for everyone. If your AGI is less than $20,000, you can e-file your state tax return for free in most states (this option is not available in twelve states). If your AGI is over $20,000, the fee is $12.95 to file a state tax return.

HRBlock.com offers a free Federal e-file tax return service if you have an AGI of $52,000 or less and are under the age of 51. You can file a state tax return for just $29.95. They also include audit support free of charge.

The Army Community Service (ACS or CSC) offers a free e-file tax return service for active duty service members and can be located on most major installations. The ACS tax centers are typically only open from February to April 15th. After April 15th, additional tax service is available by appointment from the Legal Assistance Department.