IRS Free File is a great option for those looking to file their federal income tax online without spending a dime. It's safe, easy, and completely free to use. However, users should be aware of any paid upgrades that may be offered by the software publisher. Cash App Taxes is another great option for those looking to file their taxes for free.
It includes the vast majority of IRS forms at no cost and works with all states that require a tax return, except Montana. The level of support for Cash App Taxes is not as comprehensive as some of the more popular tax software programs, such as TurboTax or H&R Block, but it does include live chat and contextual help content. For those who can file their return with Cash App Taxes, it will certainly be 100% free. However, it does not include foreign income, returns from non-resident states, increased standard deduction (rare), and married people filing alone in community property states.
Additionally, Cash App Taxes does not have any paid tax preparation services, so users don't have to worry about upgrade offers. FreeTaxUSA is another great option for those looking to file their taxes for free. It doesn't include the polished interface or support features of major tax programs, such as TurboTax or H&R Block, but it does include contextual help and answers to common tax questions. Be sure to carefully read the list of tax forms compatible with FreeTaxUSA to see if you are eligible to receive a free tax return before filing it.
Unfortunately, people who worked in multiple states can't use FreeTaxUSA to file their state returns. IRS Free File also connects users with free tax preparation software. The only allowable credits and deductions are the earned income tax credit, the recovery refund credit, the child tax credit and the student loan interest deduction, included free of charge. Most online tax programs offer you the option of making changes to a tax return if you've missed something or filed it incorrectly. W-2 wage earners (including homeowners, people requesting child care expenses, the student loan interest deduction or charitable deductions, and earned income tax credit beneficiaries) can apply for a free return this year through IRS Free File. And regardless of how complex your tax situation is, here you can find the forms and attachments needed to complete your tax return, subject to some limitations described by the IRS. Provide basic information about you and where you live, and IRS Free File will connect you with free tax preparation software.
Electronically file your federal and state tax return with direct deposit to get your tax refund as quickly as possible.
