Instead vs TaxAct

Instead is a web-based AI agent for tax research, planning, preparation, filing, and defense. It lists support for individual 1040, C corporation 1120, S corporation 1120-S, partnership 1065, and trust and estate 1041 returns. Users choose which workflows to run, and credits are consumed only when they start a task; the credit estimate is shown beforehand. Users can review the agent’s work before filing. Google Drive, OneDrive, and Box are live integrations with two-way sync, version tracking, and automatic folder mapping. Instead says it is IRS-approved and supports e-filing in 48 or more state jurisdictions, as well as local filing. Federal and state e-file and prior-year import are listed. The free Instead Platform plan is free and includes unlimited users, entities, e-file and print file, multi-entity support, and collaborators and viewers. Instead Agent is billed per credit, with pricing dependent on volume and usage; purchased credits are valid for 12 months. The service lists a free trial, US-based customer support, and 24/7 support, with email responses within 24 business hours.

TaxAct provides tax preparation through online filing, downloadable software, and a mobile app. Its tools can import tax data and calculate deductions, credits, and refunds. The service covers individual filing and business options for partnerships, C corporations, S corporations, sole proprietors, and tax-exempt organizations. Mobile features include photographing documents, checking progress, filing on the go, and getting expert help. Free federal filing is available for eligible standard returns, but the Free Edition is limited to Form 1040 without attached forms or schedules. It covers listed cases such as W-2, unemployment, and retirement income; investment, rental, business, and self-employed income and expenses are excluded. Other online products can be started free, with payment due when filing. Online Deluxe costs 59.99 USD once, Premier 99.99 USD once, and Self-Employed 109.99 USD once; state filing is additional. TaxAct also offers professional software and Xpert Assist, with unlimited live advice for consumer 1040 products.