Return policy comparison · 2026
E-file.com vs Simple
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 by the Thrifle team
Winner
E-file.com
A-
4.0 / 5.0 · Very Good
Simple
B-
2.9 / 5.0 · Fair
The verdict
E-file.com has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (4.0/5.0) against Simple's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
E-file.comSimple
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| E-file.com | Simple | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 90 days (before you print, view, or file your return) | 30 days (must show at least 15 consecutive days of program use) |
| Free returns | ✓ Yes (before use) | — |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Not applicable - digital tax software, no shipping. | — |
| Holiday extension | None published | None published |
| Non-returnable | Purchases become non-refundable once you print the return, view the PDF, or file it; no refund if the IRS rejects your return (correct and retransmit instead) | Lifetime subscriptions, gift card purchases, downloadable workout and nutrition workbooks |
| Watch-out items | — | — |
E-file.com tip
Don't click to view or print your PDF until you're sure you want to keep the software - that single action locks you out of a refund, even if you haven't actually filed with the IRS yet.
Simple tip
Simple actually checks your in-app tracking data and meal photos before approving a refund - you need to show you followed the program for at least 15 days, not just ask for your money back.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, E-file.com or Simple?
E-file.com has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (4.0/5.0) against Simple's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is E-file.com's return window?
E-file.com's return window is 90 days (before you print, view, or file your return).
What is Simple's return window?
Simple's return window is 30 days (must show at least 15 consecutive days of program use).
Does E-file.com or Simple offer free returns?
E-file.com: Yes (before use). Simple: see full policy.