Free File
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Free File makes doing your Federal taxes less taxing, either through brand-name software or fillable forms that do the hard work for you. Do your taxes yourself and e-file - all for free. The IRS offers Free File, a fas...
What is Free File?
Available exclusively at IRS.gov, Free File makes doing your Federal taxes less taxing, either through brand-name software or fillable forms that do the hard work for you. This online tax preparation service lets you prepare your own tax return and e-file it for free. More than 46 million people have used Free File since the Internal Revenue Service and the nation's leading tax software providers partnered together 13 years ago. The software helps you find the tax breaks you are due and help you meet your health care reporting requirements. Free File providers also offer state return preparation, some for free as well.
When you file electronically using Free File software or fillable forms, your return is sent to the IRS using the latest in encryption technology. You also get a receipt that the IRS has accepted your return within minutes of filing, and you can print your return for free. Using both e-file and direct deposit is the fastest way to receive a refund.
Program Requirements
To qualify for Free File software your income must be $66,000 or less.
All you need is a computer and an email address in order to get started at www.irs.gov/freefile. Free File must be accessed through the IRS.gov website in order to qualify for the free offers. Several of the Free File providers also offer free federal and free state return preparation. Some providers offer state returns but for a fee. You can use a "help me" tool to find the right product for you.
A second Free File option is Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic version of IRS paper forms. If you are comfortable using a paper return and your income is above $66,000, this is the product for you. It does provides only federal return preparation.
Free extensions to file, regardless of income, are offered through both Free File options. You must access Free File through IRS.gov to qualify for the free Federal offer.
Application Details
What is the application process for Free File?
No application is needed to use this program. For more information about this program, visit the Free File page.
Free File is now being offered in select volunteer tax assistance sites nationwide.