How to Use TurboTax Free Edition
File your taxes for free with TurboTax Free Edition — who qualifies and how to avoid being upsold to a paid version.
Go to turbotax.com
~15sGather your documents
~15sAnswer the interview questions
~15sWatch for upgrade prompts
~15sReview and e-file
~15sYou Did It!
You've completed: How to Use TurboTax Free Edition
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TurboTax is the most popular tax preparation software in the United States. While many products cost money, TurboTax does offer a free edition for taxpayers with straightforward returns. However, knowing exactly who qualifies and how to stay on the free version requires some awareness.
TurboTax Free Edition covers: W-2 income, limited interest and dividend income (1099-INT, 1099-DIV), the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, and student loan interest deduction. It does NOT cover: itemized deductions, freelance or 1099-NEC income, rental property income, stock sales, or HSA contributions. If you have any of these, TurboTax will prompt you to upgrade.
Go to turbotax.com and click "Start for Free." Create an account or sign in. TurboTax walks you through your return with interview-style questions about income, deductions, and credits. Answer each question and TurboTax fills in the correct forms.
Be alert for upselling throughout the process. TurboTax may suggest upgrading to a paid version. If your situation is covered by the free edition, you can decline. Look for "Continue with Free" or "No thanks" options.
After completing your return, review every number. Choose direct deposit for the fastest refund (about 21 days), then e-file. If your income is below $84,000 and you want to ensure a truly free experience, consider using IRS Free File (irs.gov/freefile) instead, which guarantees no upselling.
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