Yes, you can use TurboTax for free. Unfortunately, the free version only covers simple returns and basic features. For remaining you must have a paid account.
TurboTax comes with free and paid versions. The free version is called “TurboTax Free”. It is suitable for basic return filing and handling RRSP contributions. But it has certain limitations. You cannot take benefit of most important features like:
- How you can maximize your tax savings.
- Audit Support
- Guide on Investment incomes etc.
- No direct Support
Despite the issues, the free plan is quick and highly accurate. But there are many other tax software that have a better free version with a comprehensive range of features.
Tax Software With Free Services in Canada
Apart from TurboTax Free, there are 3 more simple tax software in Canada that have a free plan.
1. WealthSimple Tax
WealthSimple Tax was previously known as SimpleTax. It has a very unique model i.e. “pay for what you want”. It means you only pay for the services you want and nothing extra. Assessing and filing taxes with this software is easy and simple.
If you are an expert in filing, you can use the streamlined feature with the forms and fields you want. Otherwise, you can choose the detailed guided option. Unlike TurboTax, here you can get email support if you get stuck somewhere.
2. UFile
Another free software is UFile. For Canadians to get the free services of UFile, they must be eligible. The eligibility conditions are as follows:
- You must be a post-secondary student.
- You are filing your first return.
- Return is a simple tax return.
- Family income p.a is less than $20,000.
It also allows the users to access add-on features by paying some money. For example: Tax saving guidance starts at $19 only.
3. GenuTax
The last one is GenuTax. This software is totally free and very easy to use. It has a similar model to WealthsSimple. So, whatever services you need apart from tax returns, you have to pay extra for them. You need to download GenuTax on your laptop and then install it like regular software.
Bad news for Mac users, as it is only compatible with Windows. With its free feature, you can make and file around 20 returns at the same time. It can be from this year, PY, or up to 2003.
Hence, there are many alternatives to TurboTax when it comes to free tax software for Canadians.