Free Tax Filing With IRS Free File: Step-by-Step Guide

Every tax season, thousands of taxpayers look for ways to reduce the costs of filing their tax returns.

One of the most widely used options is IRS Free File, a program that allows individuals to prepare and submit their federal tax return at no cost using approved software or free electronic forms.

Why it matters: For many families, paying for tax preparation can be an additional expense at a time when every dollar counts. The IRS Free File tax return program allows taxpayers to avoid that cost if they meet certain requirements while also speeding up the electronic filing process.

In simple terms, IRS Free File offers free preparation, electronic filing, and the option to receive refunds via direct deposit if the taxpayer qualifies.

Who Can Use IRS Free File for a Free Tax Return?

The program is primarily designed for taxpayers with moderate incomes.

For the tax season corresponding to the 2024 tax year, the limit for Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is $89,000 or less for individuals and families.

AGI includes various types of income, such as:

Wages and salaries

Tips

Business income

Pension or retirement income

Other taxable income

IRS Free File tax return – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Each partner company within the program may also establish its own eligibility requirements, which could include factors such as age, state of residence, or specific income thresholds.

Taxpayers who exceed the income limit can still use Free File Fillable Forms, a free tool for completing electronic forms. However, in that case the system does not provide step-by-step guidance.

Benefits of the Free File Program

One of the main advantages of the IRS Free File tax return program is that it allows taxpayers to complete their federal tax filing without paying for software.

Key benefits include:

Free federal tax preparation: Eligible taxpayers can use guided tax software at no cost.

Free electronic filing: The return can be submitted directly to the IRS online.

Direct deposit refunds: If the taxpayer is owed a refund, it can be deposited directly into a bank account.

Protection of tax information: Partner companies cannot use tax return data for other purposes without the taxpayer’s consent.

Some partner providers also offer the option to file taxes in Spanish, making the process easier for Spanish-speaking taxpayers.

IRS Free File tax return – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Documents You Should Gather Before Filing

Before starting the process, the IRS recommends gathering all necessary information to avoid delays or errors.

Important documents include:

Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN: Taxpayers without a Social Security number may use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

Income forms: Such as Form W-2 from an employer or 1099 forms from other payers.

Dependent information: Determine whether someone else may claim you as a dependent.

Documentation for tax credits and deductions: Any claimed benefits must be verifiable.

Prior-year Adjusted Gross Income or tax PIN: Needed to electronically sign the return.

Bank information: Account and routing numbers for direct deposit refunds.

Having this information ready can simplify the filing process and reduce the likelihood that the IRS will request additional verification.

IRS Free File tax return – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Step-by-Step: How to Use IRS Free File

The process to submit an IRS Free File tax return is relatively simple and can be completed entirely online.

1. Visit the official IRS Free File portal.
Always access the program directly through the IRS website to avoid third-party commercial platforms.

2. Choose between two main options:

Guided tax software

IRS Free File Fillable Forms

3. Use the provider search tool if selecting the guided option.
This tool helps find the right partner based on income, age, or state of residence.

4. Select a provider and create an account.
You will be redirected to the partner company’s website to begin preparing your return.

5. If using IRS Free File Fillable Forms, create an account within the system and manually complete the required tax forms.

6. Submit your completed return electronically to the IRS.

7. Receive confirmation.
The system will send an email confirming whether your return was accepted. If errors are detected, you can often correct them and resubmit before the filing deadline.

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Possible Costs in Certain Situations

Although the IRS Free File tax return program is promoted as free, some situations may involve additional charges.

For example:

Some providers may charge for state tax return preparation or filing, since the free benefit mainly applies to the federal return.

Fees may apply if the taxpayer does not meet the provider’s eligibility requirements.

Charges may appear if the AGI exceeds the program’s limit for guided software.

Even so, for millions of taxpayers who qualify, IRS Free File remains one of the most accessible ways to file taxes without paying for additional services.

What’s Next:

As the tax filing deadline approaches each year, the IRS recommends checking in advance whether you qualify for the program and gathering all required documents before starting.

Preparing early can make it easier to complete your IRS Free File tax return quickly and avoid last-minute stress.