As the income tax filing season for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26) approaches, more taxpayers are turning to DIY platforms instead of hiring a Chartered Accountant. These apps promise ease, affordability, and speed — but not all platforms are created equal. In 2025, TaxBuddy, Cleartax, and Tax2Win have emerged as three of the most widely used tax filing platforms in India. But which one is the best for you?
In this comparison, we’ll break down their DIY filing features, ease of use, automation tools, pricing, and support — so you can make an informed decision before you file.
What Are DIY Tax Filing Platforms?
DIY platforms allow individuals to file their income tax return online by themselves. These tools guide users step-by-step through the filing process — from choosing the right ITR form to uploading Form 16, claiming deductions, calculating taxes, and submitting the return to the Income Tax Department.
The goal is simple: help you file accurately and quickly without needing expert help unless absolutely necessary.
Let’s Compare: TaxBuddy vs Cleartax vs Tax2Win (2025)
Here’s how these three platforms stack up on key criteria:
1. User Interface and Ease of Use
- TaxBuddy: Designed for first-time users and salaried employees, TaxBuddy’s UI is clean, simple, and question-based. It guides you through each step using plain language. No tax jargon, just a conversational flow.
- Cleartax: Offers a polished interface with detailed menus. Slightly more technical in layout, but still beginner-friendly. Better suited for those familiar with ITR terminology.
- Tax2Win: A fairly straightforward interface. Uses a form-like structure but might feel slightly less intuitive for absolute beginners compared to TaxBuddy.
Verdict:
TaxBuddy leads for beginners and first-time filers. Cleartax works well for tech-savvy users. Tax2Win is functional but less interactive.
2. Form 16 Upload & Auto-Fill
- TaxBuddy: Allows direct upload of Form 16 and auto-fills income, TDS, and deduction sections. Also supports AIS/26AS reconciliation for mismatch alerts.
- Cleartax: Advanced OCR-based Form 16 import. Auto-fills multiple fields. Also integrates with AIS but may require user adjustments.
- Tax2Win: Form 16 import supported but occasionally needs manual correction. AIS/26AS import is available but less fluid.
Verdict:
TaxBuddy and Cleartax both offer robust automation, but TaxBuddy is quicker for basic cases. Tax2Win lags slightly behind in accuracy.
3. Tax Regime Comparison
- TaxBuddy: Automatically compares old and new regime, highlights which gives better refund, and lets you toggle in real-time.
- Cleartax: Offers detailed regime comparison, but buried in menus unless you explore manually.
- Tax2Win: Also compares both regimes, but you must manually enter values to get a clear picture.
Verdict:
TaxBuddy wins for showing instant regime comparison upfront. Cleartax is detailed, while Tax2Win requires more effort.
4. Deductions and Smart Suggestions
- TaxBuddy: Suggests applicable deductions based on your income and profile — including 80C, 80D, 80TTA, HRA, and more. It also warns you if you’re missing a common deduction.
- Cleartax: Allows deductions entry with help tips but doesn’t suggest as proactively.
- Tax2Win: Covers all sections but lacks auto-suggestions unless you’re using the expert-assisted option.
Verdict:
TaxBuddy is best for maximizing tax savings for DIY users. It feels more like a guided tax planner.
5. Filing Process and Support
- TaxBuddy: Offers real-time support via email and chat during the DIY journey. If needed, you can switch to expert filing with one click without losing progress.
- Cleartax: Good help articles and chatbot support. Expert upgrade is available but might require data re-entry.
- Tax2Win: Email support is decent, but real-time chat may be slower. Upgrade to CA filing available with some delays.
Verdict:
TaxBuddy offers the most seamless transition between DIY and expert help — ideal if you start on your own but want a second opinion.
6. Refund Tracking & Post-Filing Support
- TaxBuddy: Tracks ITR acknowledgment, refund status, and notifies if any notice or discrepancy arises. Offers support on notice replies via dashboard.
- Cleartax: Refund tracking supported. Response to notices mostly part of paid plans.
- Tax2Win: Basic post-filing tracking available. Limited features in the free DIY tier.
Verdict:
TaxBuddy gives more rounded support even after filing is done.
7. Pricing in 2025
- TaxBuddy:
- DIY Filing: ₹0 for basic salaried users
- Additional features (e.g., complex ITR or support): Paid plans start at ₹499
- Cleartax:
- DIY Filing: Free for basic salaried return
- Premium: ₹699–₹1,499 for additional support and features
- Tax2Win:
- DIY: Free plan available
- Expert Assisted Filing: ₹499–₹1,999 depending on complexity
Verdict:
All platforms offer free DIY options, but TaxBuddy gives more within the free tier for salaried users. Cleartax charges earlier for upgrades.
8. Best Use Case for Each Platform
- TaxBuddy: Best for salaried employees, freelancers, and first-time filers who want automation + real support.
- Cleartax: Great for those with multiple income sources or some prior experience with ITR filing.
- Tax2Win: Suitable for simple salary returns or users who are comfortable with basic entry forms.
Which DIY Filing App Wins in 2025?
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly, feature-rich, and supportive DIY platform, TaxBuddy takes the lead in 2025. It offers the best blend of simplicity, smart tax automation, regime comparison, post-filing support, and refund tracking — all while keeping the pricing beginner-friendly.
Final Verdict:
| Feature | TaxBuddy | Cleartax | Tax2Win |
| Ease of Use | ✅ Best | Good | Basic |
| Form 16 Auto-Fill | ✅ Excellent | Excellent | Average |
| Regime Comparison | ✅ Auto & Clear | Manual Toggle | Manual |
| Deduction Suggestions | ✅ Smart | Basic | Limited |
| Support & Transition | ✅ Seamless | Good | Slower |
| Refund Tracking | ✅ Full | Partial | Basic |
| Best For | Salaried, Freelancers | Experienced users | Simple salary filers |
| Overall Winner | 🏆 TaxBuddy |
Conclusion
Choosing the right DIY tax filing platform in 2025 can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. While all three platforms — TaxBuddy, Cleartax, and Tax2Win — have their strengths, TaxBuddy stands out as the most user-friendly and beginner-focused solution. Whether you’re filing for the first time or just want a smoother way to get your taxes done, TaxBuddy offers everything you need — without the guesswork.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
