- Flat-rate pricing: One simple price of $29.99 covers both federal and state returns, which removes confusion from multiple plan options.
- Step-by-step guidance: The software walks you through your return with clear instructions that help reduce mistakes.
- Error checks: Built-in accuracy checks review your return and highlight possible issues before filing.
- W-2 import: You can import your W-2 details directly, which saves time and reduces manual entry errors.
- Free preview: You can prepare and preview your return for free, and payment is only required when you file.
- Support options: Access help through a knowledge base, email, and live chat during the tax season.
- Data security: The platform uses encryption and secure storage to protect sensitive financial information.
- Document storage: Completed returns are stored securely for three years, which gives you easy access if needed later.
- Refund payment option: You can pay filing fees out of your refund with the E-collect service, which adds convenience if you prefer not to use a credit card.
1040.com
Used to prepare, file, and manage federal and state taxes.
Updated February 27, 2026
1040.com Overview
1040.com is an online tax preparation platform designed to simplify filing for individuals and small businesses. It provides an easy-to-use interface where users can prepare and e-file their federal and state tax returns securely.
The service offers step-by-step guidance, built-in error checks, and support for common tax forms. Its goal is to make filing quick, accurate, and affordable while giving users confidence in their tax submissions.
Key Features
Pricing
| Plan Name | Price | Key Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Flat-Rate Plan | $29.99 | Includes federal + state filing, walkthrough guidance, 100% accuracy, chat/email support, W-2 import, 3-year storage, one-price guarantee |
| Pay-with-Refund Option (E-collect) | +$27.95 (optional) | Lets you defer payment by using your tax refund; it’s an add-on to the flat-rate plan |
Check Pricing details: https://www.1040.com/pricing
Pros
| Competitor | Pros of 1040.com |
|---|---|
| TurboTax | 1040.com is more affordable because it offers a single flat rate of $29.99, while TurboTax charges higher fees that vary based on return complexity. The straightforward pricing model helps reduce confusion, which appeals to people who dislike tiered plans. |
| H&R Block | 1040.com is simpler and less overwhelming for people who want to file quickly without facing multiple software editions or upsells. Its flat pricing provides clarity, which makes it cost-effective compared to H&R Block’s higher prices for certain returns. |
| TaxAct | 1040.com is easier to use because it avoids multiple pricing tiers and keeps all features under one plan. Its three-year return storage is included at no extra cost, which gives users peace of mind compared to TaxAct’s extra charges for add-on features. |
| FreeTaxUSA | 1040.com offers a single predictable price for both federal and state returns, while FreeTaxUSA often adds charges for state filings or advanced features. Its built-in live chat support during the tax season is also a strong advantage over FreeTaxUSA’s limited support channels. |
Cons
| Competitor | Cons of 1040.com |
|---|---|
| TurboTax | TurboTax has stronger brand recognition and broader customer support options, including phone and professional assistance. It also offers more advanced tools for complex tax situations, which makes it a better choice for people with investments or businesses. |
| H&R Block | H&R Block provides in-person tax services through its branches, which 1040.com does not. This personal help can be reassuring to people who want face-to-face guidance and professional review options. |
| TaxAct | TaxAct often supports more advanced features for business owners and people with unique tax needs. It also offers more extensive audit support, which 1040.com lacks. |
| FreeTaxUSA | FreeTaxUSA is cheaper for federal returns because it offers them at no cost, with a small fee for state filings. It can be the better budget option for those who only need simple returns. |
Reviews
- Trustpilot Review (Rating: 4.6/5): Many filers highlight the affordable flat fee and say 1040.com asks simple yes-or-no questions that “fill everything in for you.” Several mention fast, efficient service, a helpful chatbot, and clear step-by-step guidance, while one user who filed in multiple states said the software handled both correctly after another program produced wrong numbers. A few complaints focus on filing fees and confusion around certain state rules.
- Reddit r/tax: One poster felt misled about a promised free federal filing and said support never responded after raising concerns about a $29.99 charge through the IRS Free File link. Another user reported the opposite experience and completed an Arizona return “100% free” through the IRS site. A different commenter found 1040.com straightforward overall but hit a “Deal Buster” with the $2000 Child Tax Credit on Line 19 and Form 8812, while another criticized non-intuitive form additions and ongoing issues with Oregon’s OR-ASC form and foreign tax credits.
- consumeraffairs.com Review: The flat $25 price for federal and state returns attracts budget-conscious filers who want a single fee regardless of forms or credits. The “easy-to-use guarantee” and “100% accuracy guarantee” add reassurance, though those with complicated taxes may need a more advanced service. Extra costs such as the $24.95 refund payment option and $29.95 Audit Assistance draw attention for increasing the total bill.
- money.com Review: Most customers applaud 1040.com for simplicity, clear prompts, and affordability, and some praise the live chat with on-staff tax professionals. A small group reports poor software performance and frustration over the lack of a public customer support phone number. Active stock or cryptocurrency traders and self-employed filers may face tedious steps that feel less robust than other options.
