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FreeTaxUSA

FreeTaxUSA: Low-Cost Filing When Your Gig Income Needs a Real Schedule C

File federal for free and add a cheap state return — a pragmatic fit for DoorDash, Uber, Etsy, and freelance earners who already tracked miles and expenses all year.

Last updated October 11, 2026

FreeTaxUSA online tax filing for freelancers

At a Glance

  1. Federal e-file free for supported returns
  2. State filing $15.99 per state (verify current price)
  3. Schedule C and self-employment tax support
  4. No monthly subscription — pay at filing time
  5. Bring mileage exports from Everlance, Stride, or Gridwise

Key Features

  • Integrates with IRS
  • Integrates with State tax agencies
  • Available on Web

Plans & Pricing

Federal

$0 /mo

  • Federal tax return — $0
  • Free e-file
  • Customer support
  • Printable tax return
  • Tax extension

State

$16 /mo

  • Per state return — $15.99
  • Optional Audit Defense — $19.99
  • Optional Pro Support — $64.99

Our Verdict

Strengths

  • Dramatically cheaper than many big-box DIY suites
  • Handles common 1099 and Schedule C situations
  • Transparent state fee vs surprise upgrade walls
  • Good year-end complement to free mileage trackers

Limitations

  • DIY interview still requires organized books
  • Less year-round expense coaching than Keeper
  • Complex multi-state or partnership returns may need a CPA
  • Audit defense and live CPA chat usually cost extra elsewhere

Who It's For

Best for

  • Gig workers with straightforward Schedule C returns
  • Filers who already logged mileage and expenses elsewhere
  • Anyone comparing TurboTax prices and wanting a free federal option

Consider alternatives if

  • Businesses with payroll employees and complex entities
  • Filers who want a year-round tax coach in-app
  • Anyone seeking investment advice inside tax software

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FreeTaxUSA actually free?

Federal filing is free for supported forms. State returns cost a flat $15.99 per state. Confirm the current state price when you start your return.

Can I enter gig mileage deductions?

Yes. Enter business miles under vehicle expenses using the IRS standard mileage rate or actual expenses. Export totals from your mileage app to avoid guesswork.

FreeTaxUSA vs Keeper?

FreeTaxUSA is a filing product you use at tax time. Keeper focuses on year-round deduction tracking for freelancers. Many people use both: Keeper all year, FreeTaxUSA (or a CPA) to file.

Data Sources

Specifications and pricing are verified against the following sources.

  • FreeTaxUSA Checked 10/11/2026 · description, heroImage, title