Friday June 5, 2026

Washington News

Free File Open for Tax Filing

On January 10, 2025, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Free File program opened for tax filing. Through the Free File program, the IRS offers access to free tax software filing programs to millions of qualifying taxpayers.

IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel stated, "Taxpayers have multiple filing choices, including trusted tax professionals, tax software, Free File, Direct File or free preparation services through IRS partners. Over the years, Free File has helped millions of taxpayers, providing a fast and simple way to file their returns. This program continues to be a valuable resource for eligible individuals looking to file their taxes for free through this unique program."

This is the 23rd year for the IRS Free File program. Eight private companies participate in the Free File Inc. partnership. These eight software companies provide complimentary tax software for taxpayers with adjusted gross income (AGI) of $84,000 or less. One provider also offers a tax program in Spanish.

Any returns that are prepared after January 10 will be held and filed at the end of the month. Taxpayers with AGI over $84,000 have another free option available; on January 27, they may start using the Free File Fillable Forms from IRS.gov.

IRS Free File is a no-cost solution for taxpayers. Many Free File users will qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit (CTC) or other benefits. The EITC is generally available to taxpayers with an income under $66,819. A taxpayer may use the EITC Assistant on IRS.gov which is available in English and seven other languages.

The EITC and other tax credits may be refundable. These refundable credits benefit taxpayers even if they have no tax obligation.

The IRS explains the simple steps to use the Free File program. Taxpayers should go to IRS.gov/freefile. Select the “Explore Free Guided Tax Software” link to find a program. You can browse the eight trusted partners and select your preferred software. Some have different AGI limits for regular taxpayers and active-duty military. When you click on a link, you will be taken to the software website. Follow the indicated steps to complete your tax return.

If you do not have a computer, the Free File software also will work on a smartphone or tablet.

The eight Free File 2025 partners are1040Now, 1040.com, ezTaxReturn.com, FileYourTaxes.com, OnLine Taxes, TaxAct, FreeTaxUSA and Tax Slayer. The ezTaxReturn.com program is also available in Spanish.