You Are Likely to Be Eligible to File a Tax Return for Free
As if paying taxes wasn’t painful enough, paying to file taxes adds insult to injury. How much you pay for preparing your tax return depends on several factors such as the complexity of your taxes and the type of service you use. But you might be lucky: most people are eligible to pay taxes for free under the IRS Free File program —subject to some income restrictions. Here’s how the IRS Free File Program works, as well as other filing options that will also cost you next to nothing.
How to use the free IRS file
IRS Free File is exactly what it sounds like, a filing service provided by the IRS. With it, you can file your tax return using the step-by-step tax preparation available on the partner site. The program offers the most frequently completed forms and schedules for taxpayers. Here’s the catch: To qualify, your adjusted gross income must be no more than $73,000. As long as your tax situation is simple and you meet the income limit, here are the steps to use the IRS Free File.
- Start filing directly at IRS.gov . Going through a partner site may result in additional fees.
- Choose from the Free IRS File option, step-by-step tax preparation, or free forms to fill out (more on that below).
- From here you will be redirected to the IRS partner website to sign in or create your account.
- Prepare and electronically file your federal tax return.
- Receive an email when the IRS accepts your return.
Other ways to file your tax return for free
IRS.gov has an online free file finder tool to help you find a free filing option that you are eligible for. You can enter your income, state of residence, age, military status, and earned income tax deduction eligibility and it will match you with offers that match your tax filing needs.
If you don’t meet the income requirements to file your tax return for free in the section above, here are other ways you can file your taxes for free.
Free forms to fill out files
If you earn more than $73,000, you can use the free, fillable forms on IRS.gov to prepare your own taxes. However, if you’re making over $73,000, it might be worth spending some money on using commercial tax software.
Commercial tax software
You can file a simple tax return for free with companies like TurboTax or H&R Block. For the most part, you can avoid additional fees. But if you want to maximize deductions, that price will go up to at least $40 on H&R Block and at least $100 on TurboTax .
Voluntary Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
The IRS also provides free tax preparation for taxpayers who earn $60,000 or less per year, as well as for those with disabilities and those for whom English is a second language. These volunteers usually work in personal locations around the country. You can find the one closest to you here .