Streamline Your Tax Filing with Free Options
This tax season, the federal government is making it easier and more affordable for you to file your taxes. With free filing options available from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other programs, you can save money and stress less.
IRS Free File: A Game-Changer for Low-to-Moderate Income Taxpayers
In partnership with the Free File Alliance, the IRS offers IRS Free File to eligible taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) or taxable income of less than $84,000 in 2024. This free federal tax preparation software uses a series of simple questions to help complete your tax return. It’s best for those who aren’t itemizing expenses, don’t own a business, and don’t require extensive adjustments. You can check to see if you qualify, calculate your adjusted gross income, and get access to the tax software at IRS.gov.
Other Free Filing Options
If your AGI is above $84,000 or you have other income sources that complicate your tax forms, you can find free options from popular tax brands, including H&R Block, Turbo Tax, Tax Slayer, and TaxAct Free. These software options are best for individuals with straightforward tax filings and sometimes include free state tax filing.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
VITA is a program supported by a federal grant that provides free tax preparation to low- and moderate-income taxpayers. This community partnership staffs sites in libraries, schools, and other convenient locations with IRS-certified volunteers who provide in-person, free tax help. TCE, a sister program to VITA, uses a federal grant to provide free tax preparation services to older taxpayers. Many TCE sites are run in cooperation with the nonprofit AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program.
MilTax: Free Tax Filing for Military Members and Veterans
Military members, their families, and some veterans may qualify to have taxes filed for free through MilTax, the Department of Defense’s free tax software offered in partnership with Military OneSource. The software is specifically geared toward concerns such as combat wages, deployment situations, multi-state filings, and housing or rental concerns.
Direct File Program: A Quicker Refund Turnaround
If you’re an American who resided in one of 25 states in 2024, you may be eligible to file your taxes directly with the IRS and get a quicker turnaround on your direct deposit refund through the Direct File Program.
Calculating Your Adjusted Gross Income
Deciding which free tax filing option is best involves checking your adjusted gross income or taxable income. Calculating your adjusted gross income is a fairly simple formula: total the income you’ll report, such as wages, dividends, and interest from savings accounts, then subtract any deductions, credits, or adjustments you’re eligible to take.
State-Specific Free Tax Filing Assistance
Some states offer free tax filing assistance for both federal and state returns, usually tied to lower-income households via a partnership with a third-party tax preparation provider. Check your state’s department of revenue website for details about any free tax prep programs you may qualify for.
Tax Tips and Reminders
Remember to report all your sources of income from your W-2 forms, including anything you receive for services or products sold through platforms like PayPal or Venmo. If you’re self-employed and pay estimated taxes quarterly, you still need to file a tax return with the IRS to ensure you’ve paid the right amount.
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