Many people file their own taxes using one of the many tax filing softwares. These usually come with a price tag, but there are a number of options to file for free which we’ve listed below.
Two important things to note. First, some free options might offer federal filing at no cost, yet they’ll tack on a fee if you have them file your state taxes; keep an eye out for that. Second, free filing could work well for a typical, uncomplicated W-2 employee. Those with more complicated tax filings might elect to pay a tax professional instead – do your research and decide which is best for you. Moreover, many of the free offerings don’t support scenarios like multi-state filings, foreign earned income, and other complicated filings.
- [Link] IRS partners with 14 different tax software companies to offer free filing for those with AGI of $66,000 or less. Remember, you might make $80k+ and still have an AGI of $66k after deducting 401k contributions and similar deductions. This is only for federal filings. The following states provide a free state tax return in partnership with private software companies via the Free File Alliance: AR, AZ, DC, GA, IA, ID, IN, KY, MA, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NY, OR, RI, SC, VA, VT, WV.
- [Link] VITA/TCE Those making less than $54,000 can get in-person help with their taxes under the VITA program. All seniors can get help too under the TCE program. More details here. AARP also has a similar program for those 50 and older, details here.
- [Link] UnitedWay and H&R Block partner to offer a deluxe filing package free for those with AGI of $66,000 or less. This covers both federal and state taxes. H&R also offers free filing on basic returns here.
- [Link] Credit Karma offers free tax filings both federal and state. (List of Supported Forms) Just be aware they do use your data to upsell products to you.
- [Link] TurboTax offers free federal filings for 1040EZ/1040A filings. They advertise that state filing is included free as well. To boot, you can go through the Southwest portal and get 1,000 miles when using TurboTax, even when doing the free version.
- Capital One is offering free premium H&R Block filing software if you agree to provide your tax data to Capital One. Log into your Capital One account to see if you’re eligible for this deal.
- [Link] FreeTaxUSA offers free federal filing. State filing is $13, but you can get half of that back from the portal. Many readers in the comments consider FreeTaxUSA a great option.
Interestingly, people have reported getting different results when plugging their numbers into various softwares (??). Please comment below with your suggestions, experiences, and thoughts on which is best. We’ll add any additions if there are any.
