TurboTax 2026: Discounts, Updates & Key Insights for Tax Season

Updated on Sunday, February 1, 2026: With tax season officially here, TurboTax is rolling out a few limited-time discounts to help you save on filing costs. Here’s a breakdown of the top deals available this month:

1. TurboTax 20% Off Instant Discount

TurboTax is offering a 20% discount on federal tax filing products purchased directly through Intuit until March 30, 2026. The discount is applied after any existing seasonal pricing and applies only to the federal portion of a return. State filing fees are not included and are added separately. The adjusted price is shown automatically during checkout.

2. Free Filing Option for New Users

Taxpayers who did not use TurboTax in the previous tax year can file for free using the TurboTax mobile app. By selecting the self-prepared filing option, both federal and state returns can be completed at no cost. This option supports more than basic W-2 income, including freelance work, investment income, and rental properties. To qualify, the return must be filed in the app by February 28, 2026.

3. Early-Season Pricing Benefits

TurboTax offers lower pricing earlier in the tax season, with potential savings of up to $40 on federal returns filed by February 27, 2026. Filers can still choose their preferred level of support, whether filing independently or working with a tax professional.

4. File for free with TurboTax Free Edition

TurboTax’s Free Edition. ~37% of filers qualify. Simple Form 1040 returns only (no schedules, except for EITC, CTC, student loan interest, and Schedule 1-A).

5. Filing Support for Active-Duty Military

Active-duty military members in pay grades E1 through E9 are eligible to file their taxes at no cost using the TurboTax Freedom Edition. Service members above those ranks can access discounted pricing instead of free filing. Eligibility requires a military W-2 from the 2025 tax year. This edition is designed to accommodate the filing needs commonly associated with military service.


TurboTax and Chase: No Discount for 2026

In previous years, TurboTax partnered with Chase to offer special discounts on tax preparation software for Chase customers. Unfortunately, for the 2026 tax season, this collaboration seems to have ended, and Chase customers will no longer receive exclusive TurboTax savings (the discount link still works but the savings are no longer applied).

This change reflects a shift in TurboTax’s promotional strategy, focusing instead on broader partnerships and direct customer discounts. While the discontinuation might disappoint loyal Chase users, there are still opportunities to save through other financial institutions or TurboTax’s public offers.


Chase: History, Background, and Tax Season Relevance

Chase, a subsidiary of JPMorgan Chase & Co., is one of the largest and most recognized banks in the United States. With over 4,700 branches and a wide range of financial products, Chase serves millions of customers. Here’s a closer look at Chase’s role in financial planning and tax preparation:

Key Facts About Chase

  • Founded: Chase traces its roots back to 1799, making it one of the oldest financial institutions in the U.S.
  • Services: Chase offers checking and savings accounts, credit cards, loans, investment products, and business banking services.
  • Reputation: It is known for its robust online banking platform and extensive branch network, making financial services accessible nationwide.

Benefits of Using Chase During Tax Season

Chase provides several tools and resources that can be beneficial during tax season:

  1. Access to Financial Records: Chase’s online banking platform allows customers to download transaction histories and monthly statements, which are often necessary for filing taxes.
  2. Tax Document Management: Customers with Chase mortgage or investment accounts receive tax-related documents like 1098 and 1099 forms directly through the online portal.
  3. Direct Deposit of Tax Refunds: Chase accounts are eligible for direct deposit, allowing customers to receive their tax refunds quickly and securely.

Drawbacks for Tax Season

While Chase offers significant resources, there are some limitations:

  1. No TurboTax Discounts: As of 2026, Chase no longer provides TurboTax-specific discounts, which had previously been a valuable benefit.
  2. Fee Structures: Certain Chase accounts may come with fees, such as monthly maintenance charges, which can eat into savings if not managed carefully.

How to Leverage Chase for Tax Season

To maximize Chase’s offerings during tax season:

  • Download Financial Statements Early: Gather necessary documents like bank statements and transaction histories to avoid last-minute scrambling.
  • Set Up Direct Deposit for Refunds: Ensure your Chase account is ready to receive your refund by providing the correct routing and account numbers.
  • Explore Alternative Discounts: Since TurboTax discounts are no longer available, look for other promotions offered through Chase credit card partners or third-party services.

Making the Most of Tax Season Without TurboTax Discounts from Chase

The absence of Chase-specific TurboTax discounts means customers should explore other ways to save on tax preparation:

  1. Compare Tax Software: Evaluate alternatives to TurboTax, such as H&R Block or TaxAct, which may offer competitive pricing or discounts.
  2. Leverage Public Offers: TurboTax’s direct discounts, like the 10% off federal products or Free Edition for simple returns, are still available to all users.
  3. Check Financial Institution Perks: Many banks and credit unions still offer TurboTax discounts. If you bank with another institution, check their website for deals.

Final Thoughts on TurboTax, Chase, and Tax Preparation for 2026

Tax season can be overwhelming, but the right tools and resources make a significant difference. TurboTax remains a leading choice for tax preparation, offering tailored services and discounts for different financial needs. However, the loss of Chase-specific discounts highlights the importance of staying informed about changing offers and exploring alternative savings opportunities.

For Chase customers, the bank still provides valuable support during tax season, from easy access to financial records to secure direct deposit options. By planning ahead and staying organized, you can navigate tax season efficiently and take advantage of the resources available to you.

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