I really thought I had previously posted about this, but it appears I haven’t. It is a little late to be posting this year since most people have probably already filed their taxes. I’m going ahead and posting this so I can update it and post a reminder post each year.
Through the IRS Free File program, leading tax software providers make their online products available for free. IRS Free File online products are available to any taxpayer or family who earned $72,000 or less in 2020. That covers about 70% of the population.
I used the Free File service this year to file my taxes and family member’s taxes. Using the IRS Free File Online look up tool I was easily able to find programs allowing me to file both my federal and state taxes for free. Once you have accessed the software provider through the Free File link, you use the software the same way a paying customer would use it.
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to find the right Free File product:
- Go to IRS.gov/freefile.
- Use the “Free File Online Look up” tool for help in finding the right product, or
- Review each offer by a provider by using the ‘Browse All Offers’ tool.
- Select a product.
- Follow links to the provider’s website to begin.
For most people there is no reason to pay to file your taxes.