Who can use it: Most taxpayers, including those with self-employment or investment income
State tax return included Yes
Website: Credit Karma Tax
Unlike many other free tax-prep programs, Credit Karma Tax isn’t restricted to users with simple tax returns. Taxpayers with income from investments or self-employment can use this program. You can import information from prior years’ tax returns from TurboTax, H&R Block and TaxAct. Credit Karma also allows you to import W-2 forms from major payroll providers. If your payroll provider isn’t supported, you can take a photo of your W-2 with your smartphone to import your data.
If you need to file a return for more than one state, you can do your federal tax return on Credit Karma, but you’ll have to use another program for your state returns.
As it does with its offer of free credit scores, the company plans to market related products to taxpayers who use the free program based on the personal information they provide. For example, Credit Karma could use your income to trigger an offer for a specific credit card. If you sign up for the credit card, Credit Karma receives a fee. If that makes you uncomfortable, you can opt out and still use the tax-filing product.
