Free Tax Filing Coach

IRS Direct File (best for simple taxes)

The IRS\'s own free filing tool. Available in 25 states (and growing). Best for W-2 employees, retirees on Social Security, and simple returns.

• Free for federal AND state in supported states.
• No income limit (in supported states for 2024+).
• Goes step by step like commercial software.
• Backed by the IRS — no upsells, no fake "free" trick.

Check if your state qualifies at directfile.irs.gov.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide (FREE in person, IDEAL for seniors)

A real human volunteer prepares your taxes for free. Designed for taxpayers 50+, but anyone can use it.

• Available February-April at libraries, community centers, and senior centers nationwide.
• Volunteers are IRS-certified and re-trained every year.
• Bring your prior year return, all 1099s/W-2s, Social Security statement, and ID.

Find a location at aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW.

Most overlooked benefit for seniors. These volunteers are great. They catch things software misses.

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance)

Same idea as Tax-Aide but for taxpayers earning less than ~$60,000. IRS-trained volunteers.

Find a site at irs.gov/volunteers or call 211.

Free online tax software

• FreeTaxUSA — federal is FREE for everyone. State is $14.99. Most reliable free option for non-simple taxes.
• Cash App Taxes — federal AND state both free. Was Credit Karma Tax. Solid for moderate complexity.
• IRS Free File — partnership with several software companies for those earning <$84,000. Find at irs.gov/freefile.
• TurboTax Free Edition — only really free for the simplest W-2 returns. They upsell you to "Deluxe" the moment you have a 1099 or itemize. Most people end up paying $80-$200.

Documents to gather first

• Last year\'s tax return (gives you starting numbers).
• SSA-1099 (Social Security benefits).
• 1099-R (pension and IRA withdrawals).
• 1099-INT and 1099-DIV (interest and dividends).
• 1099-MISC or 1099-NEC if you did any side work.
• W-2 if you\'re still working.
• 1098 (mortgage interest) and property tax records.
• Charitable donation receipts.
• Medical bills (if >7.5% of income).
• 1095-A or 1095-B (health insurance).

Senior-specific deductions

• Higher standard deduction if you\'re 65+ ($16,550 single / $30,750 married, vs $15,000 / $29,200 under 65 in 2025).
• QCDs — sending IRA money straight to charity reduces taxable income.
• Medicare premiums count as deductible medical expenses if you itemize.
• Long-term care insurance premiums — partially deductible (cap based on age).