Repeated AI picks for tax software for simple returns
In this batch, FreeTaxUSA appeared in 9 of 9 clean model outputs and ranked first in 2.
BotPicked did not test these products or check live web sources; this page compares repeat recommendations from the saved outputs.
Model ID: claude-haiku-4-5 · 9 clean runs · 3 prompt variants · Data batch 2026-07-02 · Read the methodology
Only successful, parseable runs not flagged as tool-assisted enter these counts. Last clean run in this dataset: 2026-07-02T23:00:23.975Z. Mentions, first picks and average ranks below all use this same run set.
Compare the repeated picks
Start with the observed counts. Read the stored model rationales as context, not verified product evidence, and check current specifications, warranty, returns, availability and price before choosing.
Stored model reason: Honest, transparent pricing ($12-15 federal, $12-15 state) with zero dark patterns or artificial upsells designed to push you into premium tiers
One stored model comparison: FreeTaxUSA costs virtually nothing (federal is free, state around $15) and handles W-2 income, standard deductions, and basic investment income perfectly well without upselling you into premium tiers. TurboTax and H&R Block charge $100+ for straightforward situations; you're overpaying for hand-holding you don't need. The tradeoff is slightly less guided nudging through edge cases, but for actual simple returns, that's not a real problem.
Model-generated price note — verify current price: $15–20 federal (state optional, extra fee)
Mentioned in100%
Ranked first in22%
Observed in 9 of 9 clean runs · 2 first-place picks · average rank 2.00 when mentioned
2TaxActby TaxAct Inc.
Stored model reason: Straightforward, reliable software at $25–40 total—solid quality that avoids TurboTax's premium pricing without sacrificing reliability.
One stored comparison rationale: Slightly more polished UI than FreeTaxUSA at comparable price; established track record means fewer surprise usability quirks. Pick this if you want a familiar, battle-tested alternative.
Model-generated price note — verify current price: $50–80 for basic federal + state
Mentioned in100%
Ranked first in11%
Observed in 9 of 9 clean runs · 1 first-place pick · average rank 3.11 when mentioned
3IRS Free Fileby U.S. Internal Revenue Service (multiple approved providers)
Stored model reason: Genuinely free for taxpayers earning under ~$79k, delivered through IRS-vetted software partners.
One stored comparison rationale: Zero cost if eligible eliminates any debate—free is always better than paid for the same outcome. The only tradeoff is fewer bells and whistles than premium options.
Model-generated price note — verify current price: Free if AGI < ~$79,000
Mentioned in44%
Ranked first in22%
Observed in 4 of 9 clean runs · 2 first-place picks · average rank 1.75 when mentioned
4TurboTaxby Intuit
Stored model reason: Most widely used tax software; reliable, feature-rich, and backed by customer support.
One stored comparison rationale: Best-in-class UX and support, but becomes the right choice only if you're willing to pay $100–150 for peace of mind rather than saving $80+ with FreeTaxUSA.
Model-generated price note — verify current price: $120–180 depending on version
Mentioned in33%
Ranked first in0%
Observed in 3 of 9 clean runs · 0 first-place picks · average rank 3.33 when mentioned
5H&R Block Onlineby H&R Block
Stored model reason: Established tax software with guided workflows and in-person support options, effective for simple filings.
One stored comparison rationale: Comparable to TurboTax in cost and function; choose only if you prefer H&R Block's interface or have specific access to their partner offers.
Model-generated price note — verify current price: Free to $60+
Mentioned in33%
Ranked first in0%
Observed in 3 of 9 clean runs · 0 first-place picks · average rank 4.67 when mentioned
6TaxSlayerby TaxSlayer
Stored model reason: Straightforward interface, $20–$25 for simple returns, stable e-filing, and a growing reputation for reliability without overselling paid add-ons.
One stored comparison rationale: Slightly higher price than FreeTaxUSA/TaxAct, but offers a middle ground: more thoughtfully designed than stripped-down software, simpler than premium products. Solid fallback.
Model-generated price note — verify current price: $50–70
Mentioned in33%
Ranked first in0%
Observed in 3 of 9 clean runs · 0 first-place picks · average rank 5.00 when mentioned
7H&R Blockby H&R Block
Stored model reason: Established brand with desktop and mobile options, strong guidance for W-2 and basic situations, in-person support available at local offices.
One stored comparison rationale: Comparable to TurboTax in cost and capability but doesn't beat it in any dimension for simple returns—choose only if you prefer their UI or have a promotional code.
Model-generated price note — verify current price: $110–150 for basic returns
Mentioned in22%
Ranked first in0%
Observed in 2 of 9 clean runs · 0 first-place picks · average rank 4.50 when mentioned
How to use this result: it shows consistency within one model and one saved batch. It is not hands-on testing or proof of product quality. There are no paid placements or affiliate links, but the model can still be wrong or out of date. Verify important details before buying.
Questions
What did the model recommend most often for tax software for simple returns?
FreeTaxUSA appeared in 9 of 9 clean model outputs and ranked first in 2. That is a recurrence result, not a hands-on verdict.
How should I use this ranking?
Compare the observed counts, then verify current specifications, warranty, returns, availability and price. The methodology page explains what was included and what the evidence cannot show.