TaxFreeway vs TaxSlayer

TaxFreeway prepares Canadian federal, provincial, and territorial tax returns for individual filers. It supports self-employment, rental income, capital gains, and unlimited slips such as T3, T4, and T5. Returns can be completed in Interview mode, Form mode, or both. Tools include integrated spousal returns, tax tips, RRSP and split-pension planners, medical-expense and donation planners, and a return review. CRA services include Auto-fill My Return, NETFILE, ReFILE, Notice of Assessment through Tax Software Service, and address or direct-deposit changes. Returns are prepared and saved on the user’s computer, and the company says its website does not store personal financial information. Users with total family income of $20,000 or less can prepare and NETFILE at no cost. Windows and Mac product keys cover up to 20 returns for the current tax year, priced at 9.95 USD and $14.95, paid once. Quebec TP-1 returns and several electronic form transmissions are excluded.

TaxSlayer provides forms, calculations, and resources for preparing and electronically filing federal and state tax returns. Its listed capabilities include self-employment, investment, and rental income, plus audit support. Paid products support the IRS forms, credits, and deductions covered by the software, though business and other specialized situations may not be included. Simply Free is limited to eligible taxpayers, with eligibility based on age, income, credits, and deductions; it includes one federal return and one state return and costs nothing. Users can prepare and file federal and state taxes through the mobile app on a smartphone or tablet, as well as on the web. W-2 and 1099 import is listed, and support instructions describe uploading a PDF copy of a W-2. TaxSlayer lists AES-256 encryption for data in transit and at rest, multi-layer authentication, and a dedicated cybersecurity team. Phone and email support is offered year-round for all packages.