How to E-File Your Taxes for Free Using IRS Free File

The IRS Free File program lets most American taxpayers file their federal tax return online for free. It is a partnership between the IRS and several well-known tax software companies, including TaxAct, FreeTaxUSA, and others. If your adjusted gross income was under a certain amount last year (around $84,000 for the 2024 tax year), you qualify for guided tax software that walks you through every step. If you earned more than the limit, you can still use the free fillable forms version, which is more like an electronic paper form.

Filing electronically through Free File has several real advantages over paper filing. Refunds usually arrive within 21 days when you e-file with direct deposit, compared to six weeks or more for a paper return. The software does the math for you, which cuts down on errors. It also asks plain-language questions about your situation. So you do not have to know which form line to use. And because it goes directly through IRS-approved partners, your information is encrypted and secure.

Before you start, gather your documents. You will need your Social Security number, last year's tax return for reference, all your W-2s and 1099s, your bank's routing and account numbers if you want direct deposit, and any records of deductions or credits you want to claim, such as charitable donations or medical expenses. Having everything in one folder before you begin makes the process go much faster.

One important warning: always start at irs.gov/freefile. Do not go directly to a tax company's main website, because their main site may charge you for services that are free through the IRS portal. The Free File link on irs.gov sends you to special versions of the software that are guaranteed to be free for qualifying taxpayers.