You have several solid ways to file your taxes for free in 2026, depending on your income, how complex your return is, and whether you’re comfortable doing things yourself.

Quick Scoop

  • If your 2025 adjusted gross income (AGI) is 89,000 dollars or less , start with IRS Free File – it gives you brand-name tax software at no cost.
  • Anyone, at any income, can use Free File Fillable Forms to e-file a federal return for free (but it’s DIY with little guidance and usually no state return).
  • Many big-name tax tools (TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, etc.) have “free” tiers for simple returns (W‑2 only, limited credits, basic deductions).
  • If your income is lower or you qualify based on need, you may get free in‑person or virtual help through VITA, nonprofit tools like MyFreeTaxes, or military MilTax programs.

Main Free Filing Options (What They Are + When They Fit)

1. IRS Free File (Guided Software)

Use this if you want step‑by‑step software but don’t want to pay.

  • Who qualifies: Most people with AGI 89,000 dollars or less for 2025 can use a partner product (each partner can layer on extra rules like age or state limits).
  • What you get:
    • Online guided tax software from several private partners.
    • Federal return free; many partners also offer free state filing, but not all, so you must check the details.
  • How to use it (simple steps):
    1. Go to the official IRS Free File page during filing season (it opened in January and runs into mid‑October).
2. Answer the screening questions or browse the list of partners.
3. Pick a product that clearly says **free federal** and check whether **your state** is also free.
4. Create an account with that provider and follow their prompts to import W‑2s, claim credits, and e‑file.

This is usually the best blend of free + hand‑holding for a typical W‑2 worker.

2. Free File Fillable Forms (For DIY Types)

Use this if you’re comfortable reading IRS instructions and your main goal is zero cost, even if support is minimal.

  • Who qualifies: Anyone, any income level.
  • What it is:
    • Electronic versions of IRS paper forms (like a digital 1040) with basic math help.
    • Very little guidance, no interview questions, and generally no state filing.
  • When it makes sense:
    • You already know which forms and schedules you need.
    • You’re willing to read IRS instructions and publications.

If your taxes are more involved (side business, rentals, lots of investment activity) and you’re confident, this is a pure no‑fee path for federal.

3. “Free” Tiers from Big Tax Software

Big-name companies now compete aggressively on free offers, especially for simpler returns. Common examples (names and details can change year to year):

  • TurboTax Free Edition:
    • Covers Form 1040 with a “simple return” (W‑2, limited credits like earned income tax credit, child tax credit, some student loan interest, some retirement income).
* Roughly **37% of taxpayers qualify** , but if you add certain forms or schedules, the system may prompt you to upgrade and pay.
  • H &R Block Free Online:
    • Markets free federal and state filing for many W‑2 , unemployment, and some student loan interest situations.
  • TaxAct, TaxSlayer, and others:
    • Often participate in IRS Free File for lower‑income filers, and separately offer branded “free” options with their own eligibility rules.

Key thing to watch:

  • If you add a small business , rental property , or more advanced credits/deductions, you can get bumped out of “free” into a paid tier.

4. Community & Nonprofit Programs (With People Helping You)

If you prefer a human checking your return, there are programs that stay truly free.

  • VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance):
    • For low‑ and moderate‑income taxpayers, people with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency.
* Operates from community centers, libraries, schools, churches, and similar locations, plus some online options.

* Trained volunteers prepare returns and often a second preparer reviews them for accuracy.
  • MyFreeTaxes (United Way):
    • Provides a way to file taxes for free online, backed by a national nonprofit; available to many filers with relatively straightforward returns.
  • MilTax (for service members and families):
    • Free software and tax help specifically tailored to military situations (combat pay, frequent moves, and residency questions).

These options are especially helpful if you’re nervous about making mistakes but don’t want to pay a preparer.

5. One Option That Disappeared

There was a separate IRS‑backed direct online filing tool that will not be offered for 2026, so if you saw news about a “new free IRS tool,” it may no longer apply this season.

The good news: IRS Free File and Free File Fillable Forms are still available , along with nonprofit and software free tiers.

Practical Example: Choosing Your Best Free Path

Here’s a snapshot‑style view of how you might decide:

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Situation Best free option to try first
You have one or two W‑2s, maybe unemployment, standard deduction, and your AGI is under 89,000 dollars.IRS Free File guided software, or a big‑brand free tier (TurboTax/H&R Block/TaxAct “Free”).
Your income is modest and you’d like a real person to help check everything.VITA site near you, MyFreeTaxes, or similar nonprofit/virtual preparation option.
You’re comfortable with IRS forms, you want 100% free federal, and your AGI is above 89,000 dollars.Free File Fillable Forms (you’ll likely handle your state return separately).
You’re active‑duty military or a qualifying family member.MilTax software and support, plus potential free filing through participating services.

Quick “Before You Start” Checklist

To make any free option smoother, you’ll want:

  • W‑2s, 1099s, and any other income forms.
  • Last year’s tax return (helps with carryovers and identity checks).
  • Social Security numbers or ITINs for you, spouse, and dependents.
  • Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit.
  • Any documents related to credits (child care, education, health coverage, etc.).

TL;DR:
If you’re under the 89,000‑dollar AGI line and your situation is not extremely complex, start with IRS Free File and see which partner matches your needs, then fall back to big‑brand free tiers or nonprofit help if you prefer more human or brand support.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.