You can file your taxes for free through several IRS programs, certain state websites, and a few genuinely free software providers, as well as at approved in‑person clinics. Your best option depends mainly on your income level, how complex your return is, and whether you need help in person.

IRS programs (best starting point)

  • IRS Free File (online software) – If your 2025 adjusted gross income (AGI) is at or below about $89,000, you can use brand‑name tax software for free through IRS Free File, accessed only from IRS.gov (not by going straight to a company’s site). These guided tools cover many common and even some more complex situations and let you e‑file your federal return at no cost.
  • Free File Fillable Forms – If your income is above the Free File limit, you can still file your federal taxes free using online versions of IRS paper forms, but you must do your own calculations and choose the right forms. This is best for confident filers who understand the tax forms and instructions.

State and local free options

  • State revenue or tax department websites – Several states run their own free online filing systems (for example, California’s CalFile and similar direct‑file tools in a few other states). These let eligible residents file state returns at no cost, though rules and availability vary by state.
  • No‑income‑tax states – If you live in a state with no state income tax, you may only need a federal return, which you can handle with IRS Free File or fillable forms. This effectively reduces your filing costs because there is no separate state return to pay for.

Truly free software options

  • IRS Free File partner software – Through IRS Free File, private companies (like 1040Now, Drake/1040.com, ezTaxReturn, On‑Line Taxes, etc.) offer guided software free for those who meet the AGI and other criteria. You must start from the IRS Free File page so the product stays free and you are routed to the correct version.
  • “Always free” providers – Some services (such as Cash App Taxes and similar tools) advertise no‑cost federal filing regardless of complexity, and sometimes one free state return, while charging modest fees for extra states. These can be good if you do not qualify for IRS Free File but still want software guidance at low or no cost.

In‑person free help

  • VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) – VITA sites offer free tax prep and e‑filing for people who generally make a moderate income, have disabilities, or speak limited English. IRS‑certified volunteers prepare and e‑file your federal return without charging a fee.
  • TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) – TCE focuses on people age 60 and older and specializes in retirement and pension issues while still providing free preparation and e‑filing. Many TCE sites are run by organizations like AARP, often hosted at libraries or community centers.

Quick strategy to pick the right option

  • If your AGI is under the Free File limit (around $89,000 for 2025):
    • Use IRS Free File guided software via IRS.gov so you get brand‑name software for free.
  • If your AGI is above the limit but your return is straightforward and you are comfortable with forms:
    • Use Free File Fillable Forms for a no‑cost federal return.
  • If you want in‑person help or are not comfortable doing it yourself:
    • Look up nearby VITA or TCE sites through the IRS website and have volunteers file your return at no charge.
  • If you want a commercial‑style interface but don’t qualify for Free File:
    • Consider one of the “always free” tools that offer no‑cost federal returns and low‑cost or free state returns, checking their current terms each year.

In all cases, the safest way to start is from the e‑file or Free File section of IRS.gov so you avoid surprise fees and make sure the product you choose is actually free for your situation.