Cash App Taxes vs Lydia

Cash App Taxes is a self-service service for preparing and filing U.S. federal and state income tax returns. It supports returns involving W-2s, 1099s, investments, self-employment, and side-gig income; state filing is included. The filing workflow provides step-by-step instructions and works on a phone or computer through the web, iOS, or Android. Federal and state filing costs nothing, including when claiming deductions or credits or reporting stock or bitcoin sales. A Cash App account is required to log in. The maker says the service is an authorized IRS e-file provider and describes encryption, taxpayer-information safeguards, and vulnerability assessments. Phone number verification is required, and authenticator-app two-factor authentication is supported. The service does not provide tax or legal advice, tax planning, or audit assistance, and users are responsible for their returns. It offers e-filing for federal returns and most states that permit it; some returns may need to be mailed.

Lydia is a mobile app for paying, sending and receiving money, and collecting contributions. It runs on Android and iOS, and sending money to a contact by phone number or email is free; the recipient does not need a Lydia account. Lydia says transfers can be sent to euro accounts at payment service providers in the SEPA zone. Users can create customizable money pots for events with friends, family or coworkers, taking contributions by card, bank transfer, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Pots are not intended for public donations or fundraising for causes. Collected funds can be withdrawn in one or more transfers or used for an Amazon.fr gift card. Pot creation and participation are free; gift-card withdrawals are free, while withdrawals to a Lydia Wallet or bank are free for Lydia/Sumeria app contributions and cost 4% for other contributions. The wallet is free to open. Card-funded sends and top-ups are free up to €250 per month, then cost 2.5%; online card receipts cost 2.5%. Lydia lists strong authentication for sensitive actions and support through the app or email, with an average response time of 12 hours.