Free Tax Filing: Your Guide to Filing Returns Without Spending a Dime

Filing taxes can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to cost anything—especially if your tax situation is simple. Across the United States, several government-backed and private programs provide completely free ways to prepare and file both federal and, in some cases, state tax returns.

Below is a clear breakdown of the best free filing options, their eligibility rules, and practical steps to guide you confidently through the process.

1. IRS Free File: The Official Gateway to Free Guided Software

The IRS Free File program offers free guided tax software through nonprofit partners, making tax filing simple and fast.

What It Offers

• Guided online tax software

• Free File Fillable Forms for those who are comfortable completing forms themselves

• Free federal e-filing and direct deposit of refunds

Eligibility

• Guided software: Adjusted Gross Income below the IRS Free File limit

• Fillable forms: No income limit

• U.S. residents only

Current Status

IRS Free File typically reopens every January and remains available until the filing deadline in April (extensions continue beyond this). When open, you are matched with one of the IRS’s vetted partner software providers.

How to Use It

1. Visit IRS.gov/freefile in January

2. Check eligibility

3. Select a partner software

4. Enter required documents (W-2s, 1099s, AGI from the prior return)

5. Complete guided questions and e-file

2. IRS Direct File: Filing Federal Returns Directly With the IRS

IRS Direct File is a simplified, IRS-built tool designed to help taxpayers file basic federal taxes directly—without using third-party software.

What It Supports

• W-2 income

• Social Security benefits

• Unemployment income

• Basic credits (Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit)

Eligibility

• Must live and work entirely in one of the IRS-approved states during the filing period

• Simple tax situations

• U.S. citizens or residents

Status Update

Direct File generally opens in late January and closes after the main filing period in April. The tool also supports extended filers until early November. Expansion is ongoing—check the IRS website for updates in the next filing season.

How It Works

1. Go to the IRS Direct File portal

2. Complete the eligibility questionnaire

3. Enter your income information through guided prompts

4. Review, sign, and submit your return

5. For state returns, the tool links you to your state’s free portal (where available)

3. Free Versions of Commercial Tax Software

Many well-known tax companies offer free editions for simple returns. These can be helpful if you prefer branded interfaces or customer support.

Top Free Options

Software	Federal Filing	State Filing	Best For	Notes
Cash App Taxes	All forms/schedules	Free	Complex simple returns	No live chat
FreeTaxUSA	All federal forms	Low-cost state	Budget-conscious filers	Simple interface
TurboTax Free Edition	Simple Form 1040	Free for simple returns	Beginners	Upsell prompts
H&R Block Free Online	W-2, unemployment, student loans	Free for simple	Fast W-2 upload	Limited credits
TaxAct Free Edition	Simple Form 1040	Paid	Straightforward income	Basic features

How to Get Started

1. Visit the tax software’s official site

2. Select the "Free Edition"

3. Enter documents

4. E-file your return

Note: “Simple return” generally means no self-employment income, rental income, or investments.

4. VITA & TCE: Free Expert Prep for Those Who Qualify

If you prefer face-to-face or virtual help, the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs provide free tax preparation by IRS-trained volunteers.

Eligibility

• VITA: Income below the IRS VITA limit or qualifying for refundable credits

• TCE/AARP Tax-Aide: Age 60+

• No income limit for disability-related assistance

Finding a Site

• Use the VITA Locator Tool on IRS.gov starting January

• Or call 800-906-9887

• Options include in-person, drop-off, and virtual prep

How It Works

1. Schedule an appointment

2. Bring ID, W-2s, 1099s, prior return, and related documents

3. Volunteers prepare and e-file your tax return

How to File Taxes for Free: A Quick Step-by-Step

1. Gather your documents (W-2, 1099, tax records, AGI from prior return).

2. Check your eligibility for free IRS or software tools.

3. Choose the right method based on your tax complexity.

4. Prepare and review your return carefully.

5. E-file for quicker refunds.

6. File state taxes through linked portals or state free-file systems.

7. Track your refund using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool.

Final Tips for Smooth, Free Filing

• Claim all eligible credits, such as EITC or Child Tax Credit.

• File early—IRS systems open in January.

• Use Free File Fillable Forms if your income is too high for guided tools.

• File an extension using Form 4868 (free), but pay owed taxes to avoid penalties.

• Stick to IRS-approved platforms for security.