What Tax Site is Actually Free? A Comprehensive Guide

Tax season can be a stressful time for many people, especially those who are not sure which tax site is actually free. Fortunately, there are several options available to help you file your taxes without having to pay a fee. In this article, we'll explore the different free tax filing options available, including the IRS Free File program, the FreeFile Alliance, and various online tax preparation services. The IRS Free File program is a great option for those who want to file their federal income tax online without having to pay a fee.

This program is sponsored by the IRS and provides guided tax preparation, as well as fillable Free File forms. It's safe, easy, and completely free for you to file a federal return. The FreeFile Alliance focuses on free federal filing, but several companies also offer free filing of federal and state applications for a subgroup of customers. For example, TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxSlayer, TaxAct and Cash App Taxes all offer free federal and state tax filing.

Cash App Taxes is the only company that offers free state filing to all qualified users. These services are available to residents of all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U. S. Virgin Islands.

If you're not interested in using a Free File Alliance product, consider these 100% free online tax preparation options instead.

H&R Block

: The free edition of H&R Block has some interesting advantages. For starters, it's available to residents of all 50 states and has no other restrictions. All filers automatically qualify for free in-person auditing support, including practical advice and assistance in preparing for the audit.

TurboTax: TurboTax's tax preparation interface is incredibly intuitive, with simple, straightforward questions that guide you through every step of the filing process, reducing the likelihood of an avoidable error. It's also available to residents of all 50 states and there is no maximum income limit.

Cash App Taxes

: Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax) has a plan and is completely free for all taxpayers. However, there are some drawbacks to using this service. Unlike its larger competitors, Cash App Taxes doesn't have expert support, so it's not a good option if the complexity of your tax situation outweighs your familiarity with tax law.

The platform also has some functionality gaps that may affect those who file taxes in unusual tax situations (for example, those who earned income from foreign sources). And you'll need to download the Cash app if you haven't already done so.

TaxSlayer

: TaxSlayer's free edition is an easy-to-use platform that is appropriate for simple situations (forms 1040EZ and 1040A). However, there are some problems with the details. Unlike its competitors, TaxSlayer doesn't offer auditing assistance services or live chat support.

And while TaxSlayer's customer service team offers telephone support, TaxSlayer makes higher-paying customers (who use the Premium and Self-employed editions) stand at the front of the line when they call.

MyFreeTaxes

: MyFreeTaxes is a simple online tool that helps you file your taxes for free. The site offers a free step-by-step guide to filing taxes, as well as help through an online chat. The tax return is free for both federal and state tax returns. The Free File Alliance estimates that approximately 70% of the U. taxpaying population has the right to file returns free of charge, and tens of millions of returns have been filed since the creation of the Alliance in the early 2000s.

Use File Alliance's free search tool to find options that apply to your specific tax situation. If you're not comfortable using tax software or just want live assistance, free in-person or virtual tax preparation is your best option. Numerous tax preparation services and professional tax preparers are ready to help during this tax season. The IRS also maintains links to about two dozen free filing programs at the state level (indicated in deep blue on the map below), which also leverage relationships with well-known brand tax filing services that meet state safety and quality criteria. Be sure to carefully read the list of tax forms compatible with each service before filing it in order to make sure you are eligible to receive a free tax return. In conclusion, there are several options available for those who want to file their taxes without having to pay a fee. Whether you choose one of the online services or opt for in-person or virtual assistance from a professional preparer or service provider, make sure you understand all your options before making your decision.

Kirk Streets
Kirk Streets

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