If you have a very simple return, then EY TaxChat might not be for you. It’s pricier than many DIY tax software alternatives, so you can save money using a less expensive alternative or a 100% free option like Cash App Taxes.
However, if your return is complicated and you’re willing to pay more for the peace of mind that comes from having your tax return prepared by a pro, it’s a relatively inexpensive option. TurboTax Live, which matches customers with a tax expert who will prepare their taxes from start to finish, charges as much as $209 to prepare a simple federal return, plus up to $59 per state return.
While EY TaxChat has pricing similar to what TurboTax charges, TurboTax pulls ahead when it comes to accessing your records. You can log in to TurboTax and make digital copies of your tax returns from the last seven years, assuming you filed with TurboTax. This feature may come in handy if you ever need a copy of your return for, say, a mortgage application or a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
By contrast, EY TaxChat does not maintain copies of your returns. A year’s filed tax returns are available only through the EY TaxChat dashboard through Nov. 1, so the company strongly encourages users to download electronic copies of their returns for their records.
Support from EY TaxChat is also pretty limited. While you can send unlimited messages to your EY tax professional via the online portal or mobile app, it could take up to 48 hours to receive a response. And while phone support is available, hours are limited. You can get help by phone only Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time.