How to File Your Taxes for Free
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It’s officially tax season. Although filing your taxes may never be a task that brings a smile to your face, it’s a necessity that everyone must do each year. Filing this year’s tax returns may seem more complicated than ever thanks to changes in tax laws.
While some people prefer to work with a seasoned CPA or tax preparer, many Americans can actually file their tax returns for free. Not sure if you qualify? I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about filing your tax forms for free and run you through a few eFile tax software options.
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Who qualifies for free tax filing?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) allows you to file for free if you make under a certain income level and have a relatively simple tax profile. For 2021’s tax year, you can file for free online via IRS Free File if you made under $73,000 (non-military) in 2021. If you made over this amount, but know how to fill out paper tax forms, you can also file your federal taxes for free.
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How to use IRS Free File
The IRS free filing program is called IRS Free File and it allows you to file your taxes (typically online) through verified IRS partner websites. This year’s IRS partner tax preparation software includes:
- TaxSlayer
- FreeTaxUSA
- EZTaxReturn
- FileYourTaxes.com
- Free1040TaxReturn.com
- 1040Now
- OnLineTaxes
You can use filters to browse all offers available to you. You’ll need to enter your AGI (adjusted gross income) for 2021, your age, your Earned Income Tax Credit status, military status, and state of residence.
After applying filters, you’ll be able to explore all available offers for free tax filing.
While you can file federal taxes for free through IRS Free File, some of the partner software will charge a fee to file your state taxes. Alternatively, you can look into filing your state taxes separately by visiting your state’s tax official revenue website. Some states offer free filing, while others may not.
If you have questions about any of the filters, you can also use the IRS Free File online lookup tool for a more guided walkthrough.
You’ll then select a partner’s software to use to file your taxes. Be sure to note if state filing is free or not (this can vary by partner and state of residence).
VITA or TCE
VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) is an IRS-sponsored program that has helped individuals in need file their taxes for free for the past 50 years. You can qualify for free tax filing services from VITA if:
- Your AGI is under $58,000
- You have a disability
- You speak limited English
TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) offers free tax filing for those over 60. This can be particularly helpful for seniors with pensions and retirement funds who have unique tax questions.
To take advantage of either VITA or TCE tax services, visit the IRS Tax Prep Locator webpage.
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Tax software options
While IRS Free File partners with many top names in tax filing software to bring you free tax return options, you do not need to utilize this tool in order to save money on your taxes.
Many tax software offers a free eFile option for simple tax returns. The qualifications differ by platform but typically apply to federal returns (and sometimes state returns). Free options vary from year to year.
For 2022, here are some tax software options to consider if you’re looking for free filing in 2021.
Platform | Best for |
TurboTax | Best for existing Intuit users |
TaxAct | Best for beginners |
Credit KarmaCredit Karma | Best for more complex tax options |
H&R Block | Best all-around for simple tax returns |
TaxSlayer | Best for affordable upgrades |
1. TurboTax
TurboTax is one of the most popular tax return software available, with an easy-to-use online interface and quick ways to import a variety of tax forms. TurboTax typically charges for its services but does offer a few ways to file for free.
With TurboTax Free, you’ll receive:
- Free federal filing
- Free state filing
- Free customer support 24/7
- Free data transfers
- Free audit guidance
- Accuracy guarantee
The TurboTax Free Edition is available to you if:
- You’re filing a simple return (1040, 1040-SR, 1040-SR + unemployment)
- You’re taking the standard deduction (itemized deductions will require a fee)
- You do not have any additional streams of income to report (no self-employed income)
2. TaxAct
TaxAct has made a name for itself as a free alternative to more popular tax filing options. This platform offers free returns for most filers with simple tax returns. They’re an IRS FreeFile partner, but also offer their own free tier of tax return filing.
With TaxAct Free, you’ll receive:
- Free federal filing (State is $19.95 extra per state filed)
- Free customer support
- Free data transfers (plus imports from TurboTax and H&R Block)
- Free audit guidance
- Accuracy guarantee
The TaxAct Free Online Edition is available to you if:
- You’re filing a simple return (1040, 1040-SR, unemployment)
- You’re reporting college expenses
- You’re reporting retirement income
- You’re taking the standard deduction
- You do not have self-employed income to report
3. Credit Karma
Another fairly new contender to consider when filing your taxes is Credit Karma. Unlike many tax filing software, this platform is completely free, regardless of your tax situation. While there are a few tax situations Credit Karma cannot handle, for most filers, this service will provide completely free tax filing. It’s a great option for anyone who is familiar with filing tax returns, but it’s not quite as intuitive as TurboTax or H&R Block’s software.
With Credit Karma, you’ll receive:
- Free federal filing
- Free state filing (select states only)
- Free customer support
- Accuracy guarantee
The Credit Karma tax filing software is best for you if:
- You’re a W2 earner (employee) or unemployed
- You’re self-employed (1099)
- You’re taking the standard deduction or choosing to itemize
- You own your own business (single-member LLC, sole proprietorship, S or C corporation)
You can’t use Credit Karma if:
- You have income to report in multiple states
- You need to claim foreign income
- You’re a nonresident (filing 1040NR)
- You’re filing as a multi-member business
- You’ve never filed tax returns on your own
4. H&R Block
H&R Block has been one of the top names in tax filing for decades and their online platform is a top option for many taxpayers. H&R Block’s online tax software is similar in design to TurboTax, and also offers a free filing option for those who qualify.
With H&R Block Free, you’ll receive:
- Free federal filing
- Free state filing
- Free customer support
- Free data transfers
- Free audit guidance
- Accuracy guarantee
- Free access to your credit score
The H&R Block Free is available to you if:
- You’re filing a simple return (1040, 1040-SR, unemployment situations)
- You’re taking the standard deduction
- You’re claiming student loan or tuition deductions
- You’re reporting retirement income
- You are not reporting self-employment income
5. TaxSlayer
If you’ve never heard of TaxSlayer before, you may want to pay attention. This tax filing software offers cloud-based filing for individuals, with no charge in many situations. TaxSlayer offers all of the tools and features of top national tax filing systems, for no or low costs. Their Simply Free version is a popular pick for those filing simple returns.
With TaxSlayer, you’ll receive:
- Free federal filing
- Free state filing
- Free phone and email support
- Free data transfers
- Free audit guidance
- Accuracy guarantee
The TaxSlayer Simply Free is available to you if:
- You’re filing a simple return (1040, 1040-SR, 1040-SR + unemployment)
- You’re taking the standard deduction
- You’re claiming student loan or tuition deductions
- You are not reporting self-employment income
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Which free tax software is best for you?
If you made under $73,000 in 2021 (AGI), using the IRS Free File tool will grant you access to all of the free filing options (federal and state) available to you. However, if you’re filing a basic tax return (1040), the tax software options above can be used, no matter your income level.
Credit Karma offers the most extensive free version for filers, allowing those who are self-employed, claiming itemized deductions, or business owners to utilize their tax software. However, this software requires you to have some basic knowledge about the tax forms you’ll need to file and won’t be as easy for first-time filers to figure out. State taxes are also not always free, depending on your state of residence.
TurboTax offers free federal and state filing, but won’t allow you to claim student tuition or loan deductions for free. H&R Block, on the other hand, includes the ability to claim student deductions and retirement income if you’re filing a simple return. TaxSlayer offers the same options but includes the most affordable upgrades and next-level tax filing plans. TaxAct includes a little less in their free version (you’ll have to pay for state filing), but is a great tool for new filers.
Ultimately, if you’re over the AGI minimum for free IRS filing, the tax software you use should be driven by your filing status. If you’re filing a 1040 and have no or few deductions, you’ll have the most options. If you have a student loan or retirement deductions, your choices will narrow. Lastly, if you own your own business or have self-employment income to report, Credit Karma is the best way to file for free, but you might prefer to pay to be walked through your taxes with more intuitive software services.
FAQs
Who can file taxes for free?
If you make under $73,000 AGI per year, you will likely qualify for free tax filing through the IRS FreeFile tool. If you make over this amount, you can still qualify for IRS Fillable Forms, which will allow you to print and file for free in most cases. There are also a variety of tax preparation software options allowing individuals to file their taxes for free. You’ll typically be able to file completely for free if you’re filing a simple (1040) return.
Can I receive answers to my tax questions for free?
While many filing services offer free tax returns preparation and filing, many also include free customer support. The IRS, TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxSlayer, and other popular tax filing programs all offer access to customer service representatives at select times a day. Some services might offer phone support, while others offer online chat and email assistance.
Can I file for free if I’m self-employed?
It’s difficult to file for free if you’re reporting self-employed income, though not impossible. Credit Karma currently offers options for self-employed individuals to file their tax returns for free — but you’ll miss out on audit protection and options for maximizing deductions that other tax preparers may offer. It’s usually advised to work with an accountant, qualified tax preparer, or tax preparer service with self-employed features when claiming self-employed income. Most tax software even offers a self-employed version designed to help those who work for themselves keep the most money in their pockets.
Will my stimulus check impact my tax return?
No, if you received a stimulus check, it will not impact your tax return. You won’t owe this money back to the IRS.
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The bottom line
There are more options than ever available for anyone looking to file their taxes for free. There are free tax filing programs available for low-income filers, those with disabilities, those who do not speak English fluently, and filers at retirement age. If your tax returns are relatively simple, you’ll be able to find tax preparer software that fits your needs for free filing. Just make sure to be aware to check that the software you choose provides free federal and state filing.
If your tax situation is a bit more complicated, it’s typically worthwhile to pay a tax preparer or service to help with your taxes. Many times you’ll be able to maximize your refund (or reduce the amount you owe) while receiving audit protection.
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Writer
Courtney Johnston is a freelance writer, specializing in finance, travel, and health. She has written for The Chicago Tribune, Benzinga, BestReviews, Mashvisor, Fundera, MoneyGeek, and The Culture Trip. She also teaches writing instruction at the University of Indianapolis. Courtney currently resides in Indianapolis.
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