IRS Free File is a program that allows taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less to file their federal taxes electronically for free. The program is offered through a partnership between the IRS and several tax preparation software companies.
To qualify for IRS Free File, you must meet the following requirements:
- Your AGI must be $73,000 or less.
- You must have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- You must have a valid email address and access to the internet.
To file your taxes using IRS Free File, you will need to create an account on the IRS website and choose a tax preparation software company. The software companies will then guide you through the tax preparation process and help you to e-file your return for free.
IRS Free File offers a number of advantages over traditional tax preparation methods, including:
- It is free for taxpayers with an AGI of $73,000 or less.
- It is convenient and easy to use. You can file your taxes from the comfort of your own home using the internet.
- It is accurate and secure. The tax preparation software companies use the latest technology to ensure that your return is accurate and secure.
If you meet the requirements for IRS Free File, I encourage you to take advantage of this program. It is a great way to file your taxes accurately and conveniently for free.
IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software. It’s safe, easy, and at no cost to you. Those who don’t qualify can still use Free File Fillable Forms.
Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can use IRS Free File to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension.
Taxpayers in certain disaster areas do not need to submit an extension electronically or on paper. Check to see if you qualify and the due date of your return.
Choose from IRS Free File:
Guided Tax Preparation
(for AGI $73,000 or less)
Let the software do the work
- Free federal return if you qualify
- Answer simple questions
- Guided preparation does all the math
- Tax filing is done on an IRS partner site
- Some state tax preparation and filing are free
You do all the work
- No tax preparation guidance and limited calculations provided
- Be able to prepare a paper tax return using IRS forms, instructions, and publications
- Free electronic forms you fill out and file yourself
- No state tax preparation and filing
How IRS Free File Offers Work?
- You must begin your filing option at IRS.gov. Going directly to a company’s website will result in not receiving the benefits offered here.
- Choose an IRS Free File option, guided tax preparation or Free File Fillable Forms.
- You will be directed to the IRS partner’s website to create a new account or if you are a previous user, log in to an existing account.
- Prepare and e-file your federal tax return.
- Receive an email when the IRS has accepted your return.
IRS Free File Program offers the most commonly filed forms and schedules for taxpayers.
About IRS Free File Partnership with Online Tax Preparation Companies
The IRS Free File program is a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a coalition of leading tax preparation software companies. IRS Free File partners are online tax preparation companies that offer what is called the “IRS Free File” program, which provides free electronic tax preparation and filing of federal tax returns at no cost to qualifying taxpayers (some may also offer free state returns).
The IRS Free File program PPP is not a traditional contractual arrangement; this partnership represents a balance of joint responsibility and collaboration that serves the interests of taxpayers and the Federal government. The online tax preparation software partners are part of the Free File Alliance, which coordinates with the IRS to provide free electronic federal tax preparation and filing to you. This non-profit, public-private partnership is dedicated to helping millions of people prepare and file their federal taxes online for free.
The IRS does not endorse any individual partner company.
What You Need to Get Started
Personal Information You Need
- A copy of last year’s tax return in order to access your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
- Valid Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse, and any dependent, if applicable
Income and Receipts
- Social Security benefits
- Unemployment Compensation
- All receipts pertaining to your small business, if applicable
- Income receipts from rental, real estate, royalties, partnerships, S corporations, trusts
Other income
- W-2s, showing your annual wages from all of your employers
- Form 1099-INT, showing interest paid to you throughout the year
- Form 1099-G, showing any refund, credit or offset of state and local taxes
- Forms 1099-DIV and 1099-R, showing dividends and distributions from retirement and other plans paid to you during the year
ACA Filers
- Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement. For more information see Affordable Care Act (ACA) Tax Provisions.
- Form 8962, Premium Tax Credit
File Electronically
- When self-preparing your taxes and filing electronically, you must sign and validate your electronic tax return. To verify your identity, use last year’s AGI or last year’s self-select signature personal identification number (PIN). To sign your electronic tax return, use a 5-digit self-select PIN, any five numbers (except all zeros) that you choose which serves as your electronic signature.
- If you do not know last year’s AGI, or have a copy of your prior year’s tax return, you can find that information by signing into your online account. This is the fastest and easiest way to view your prior year adjusted gross income (AGI) and access your tax records.
- If you are unable to access your online account, you can get a tax return transcript by mail showing your prior year’s AGI.
Contact Information
- To get a notification from the Free File software company that your return was accepted by the IRS, you need a valid email address.
Information Safety
Your information is protected from any unauthorized access while it is sent to the IRS. Free File partner companies may not disclose or use tax return information for purposes other than tax return preparation without your informed and voluntary consent. These companies are also subject to the Federal Trade Commission Privacy and Safeguards Rules and IRS e-file regulations.
We do not collect or retain information about you when you use IRS Free File. Our policy prohibits the use of permanent Internet cookies. We sometimes use “temporary” or “session” cookies to make sure you are the correct recipient of the information you requested. These are deleted when your Internet visit ends.
Prior-Year Returns
Please note you can only file your current year tax return using IRS Free File. You cannot process a prior year return using IRS Free File.
Prior year returns can only be filed electronically by registered tax preparers for the two previous tax years. The IRS does not allow electronic filing for prior-year returns through self-preparation websites. You must print, sign, and mail prior year returns. Our Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications can help you find preparers in your area who currently hold professional credentials recognized by the IRS, or who hold an Annual Filing Season Program Record of Completion. You can also check the professional organizations many tax preparers belong to.
Related Tools and Information
- To view your balance owed, payment history or other information from your tax account, create or view your account.
- Get up-to-date information on your refund.
- Always remember to print your return after you successfully file online. If you forget to print your return, you can order a free transcript. Depending on the type of transcript you request, you’ll get more or less of the information from your return.
- To change your address on file, refer to the IRS Procedures guidance, How to notify the IRS my address has changed.
- To change your bank account information on file, refer to the IRS Procedures guidance, What should I do if I entered an incorrect routing or account number for direct deposit of my refund?
- You can use Direct Pay to pay your individual tax bill or estimated tax payment from your checking or savings account for free.
- Get a replacement Social Security benefits statement Form SSA-1099 online.
- Don’t have a bank account? To find a bank with an online account that’s right for you, check the FDIC website. If you’re a veteran, find options with the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP). You can also ask your tax preparer for electronic payment options.
The Benefits of the Free File Program to You
- You can obtain a free federal tax return: If you are new to Free File, you can choose a Free File company’s Free File offer based on your review of the offer qualifications listed on IRS.gov. If you choose a program and qualify, you will not be charged for the preparation and e-filing of a federal tax return.
- If you used IRS Free File last year, you will receive an email from the same company that you used, welcoming you back to their official IRS Free File services. The email must include a link to the company’s IRS Free File site and explain how to file with it. If you choose this email link and qualify, you will not be charged for the preparation and e-filing of a federal tax return.
- Fees to file your federal return are prohibited: No participant in the Free File Program will charge you anything to file your federal tax return if you qualify. You will not be asked to buy any products or services (for example, promotional rebates) in exchange for having your Federal tax return prepared by the Free File program participant.
- Bank products with fees are not a part of Free File. As part of the IRS Free File, you must not be offered bank products that often carry product fees, such as refund transfer products (e.g., refund anticipation loans (RALs)).
- Free state returns may be available: Some IRS Free File Program partner companies offer free state tax preparation. Others charge a state fee. Be sure to read each company’s information carefully.
- Each Free File Company Guarantees the Accuracy of the Return Calculations: Each company lists this guarantee on its Free File website. You can pursue any accuracy concerns directly with the company that prepared your return.
- You have choices: If you don’t qualify for an IRS Free File offer after visiting a company’s Free File website, you can return to the IRS.gov Free File website to seek a Free File offer that may meet your needs. Each IRS Free File company will provide you information when you don’t qualify, with a link back to the IRS.gov Free File site.
- Seek help if you need it: If you need help when you are at a company’s IRS Free File site and doing your taxes, you may refer to the company’s free customer service options.
- IRS can help find a free option for you. IRS Free File has an IRS Free File online look-up tool to help you find an offer that best meets your needs.
Is IRS Free File really free?
Yes, IRS Free File is truly free for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less. The program is offered through a partnership between the IRS and several tax preparation software companies. These software companies agree to provide free tax preparation and electronic filing services to eligible taxpayers.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Some software companies may offer additional paid services, such as state tax filing, audit assistance, or tax planning.
- You may be charged a fee if you choose to file a paper tax return or if you need to file an amended return.
- Some software companies may require you to create an account and provide some personal information, such as your name, address, and Social Security number.
Overall, IRS Free File is a great way to file your federal taxes for free if you meet the eligibility requirements. Be sure to read the fine print carefully before you choose a software company to ensure that you are not charged any unexpected fees.
Here are some tips for using IRS Free File:
- Visit the IRS Free File website to choose a software company.
- Create an account and provide the required information.
- Gather your tax documents, such as your W-2 forms and 1099 forms.
- Enter your tax information into the software program.
- Review your return carefully and make any necessary corrections.
- E-file your return to the IRS.
How do I fill out an IRS file for free?
To fill out an IRS file for free, you can use the IRS Free File program. This program is offered through a partnership between the IRS and several tax preparation software companies, and it allows taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less to file their federal taxes electronically for free.
To file your taxes using IRS Free File, you will need to:
- Go to the IRS Free File website and choose a tax preparation software company.
- Create an account and provide the required information, such as your name, address, and Social Security number.
- Gather your tax documents, such as your W-2 forms, 1099 forms, and receipts for any deductible expenses.
- Enter your tax information into the software program.
- Review your return carefully and make any necessary corrections.
- E-file your return to the IRS.
The IRS Free File software programs will guide you through the tax preparation process step-by-step. You can also get help from the software company’s customer support team if you have any questions.
Here are some tips for using IRS Free File:
- Start early. The IRS Free File program opens in January and closes in October. It’s best to start working on your taxes early so that you have plenty of time to get help if you need it.
- Gather your tax documents. Before you start filing your taxes, make sure you have all of your tax documents, such as your W-2 forms, 1099 forms, and receipts for any deductible expenses.
- Be accurate. When you’re entering your tax information into the software program, be sure to be as accurate as possible. Any mistakes could delay your refund or result in an audit.
- Review your return carefully. Before you e-file your return, be sure to review it carefully and make any necessary corrections. You can also have a tax professional review your return for you.
Which is the best site for filing income tax returns?
The best site for filing your income tax return depends on your individual needs and circumstances. However, some of the most popular and highly-rated tax preparation sites include:
- TurboTax: TurboTax is a popular tax preparation site that offers a variety of features and services, including free tax preparation for eligible taxpayers. TurboTax also offers a variety of paid services, such as audit assistance and tax planning.
- H&R Block: H&R Block is another popular tax preparation site that offers a variety of features and services, including free tax preparation for eligible taxpayers. H&R Block also offers a variety of paid services, such as audit assistance and tax planning.
- FreeTaxUSA: FreeTaxUSA is a tax preparation site that offers free federal tax filing for all taxpayers and free state tax filing for taxpayers in most states. FreeTaxUSA also offers a variety of paid services, such as audit assistance and tax planning.
- TaxAct: TaxAct is a tax preparation site that offers free federal tax filing for eligible taxpayers and free state tax filing for taxpayers in select states. TaxAct also offers a variety of paid services, such as audit assistance and tax planning.
- Credit Karma Tax: Credit Karma Tax is a free tax preparation site that offers free federal and state tax filing for all taxpayers. Credit Karma Tax also offers a variety of other features, such as credit monitoring and tax preparation assistance.
When choosing a tax preparation site, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Cost: Some tax preparation sites are free, while others charge a fee. Be sure to compare the fees of different sites before you choose one.
- Features: Tax preparation sites offer a variety of features, such as free federal and state tax filing, audit assistance, and tax planning. Consider which features are important to you when choosing a site.
- Ease of use: Some tax preparation sites are easier to use than others. Consider your comfort level with technology when choosing a site.
- Customer support: Some tax preparation sites offer better customer support than others. Consider how important customer support is to you when choosing a site.
If you are not sure which tax preparation site is right for you, I encourage you to read reviews and compare the features and fees of different sites before you make a decision.
Here are some additional tips for filing your income tax return:
- Gather your tax documents early. This will help you to avoid rushing and making mistakes.
- Be accurate when entering your tax information. Any mistakes could delay your refund or result in an audit.
- Review your return carefully before you e-file it. You can also have a tax professional review your return for you.
- E-file your return if possible. E-filing is the fastest and most accurate way to file your return.
What is the best free tax filing online service?
FreeTaxUSA is a free online tax preparation and e-filing service that offers free federal tax filing for all taxpayers and free state tax filing for taxpayers in most states. It also has a user-friendly interface and a variety of helpful tools and resources.
Here are some of the key features of FreeTaxUSA:
- Free federal tax filing for all taxpayers
- Free state tax filing for taxpayers in most states (exceptions include New York, Idaho, and Oregon)
User-friendly interface - A variety of helpful tools and resources, such as a tax preparation guide, tax calculators, and live chat support
Support for a wide range of tax forms and schedules - Audit assistance
- Tax planning tools
- Ability to e-file your tax return
FreeTaxUSA is a good option for taxpayers of all income levels and tax complexities. It is especially well-suited for taxpayers who are looking for a free and easy-to-use tax preparation service.
Here are some of the benefits of using FreeTaxUSA:
- Free: FreeTaxUSA does not charge any fees for federal or state tax filing.
- Accurate: FreeTaxUSA uses the latest tax laws and regulations to ensure that your return is accurate.
- Secure: FreeTaxUSA uses the latest security technologies to protect your personal and financial information.
- Convenient: FreeTaxUSA is an online service, so you can file your taxes from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Supportive: FreeTaxUSA offers a variety of helpful tools and resources, including a tax preparation guide, tax calculators, and live chat support.
If you are looking for a free and easy-to-use tax preparation service, I recommend FreeTaxUSA.