Tax season: How to file for free
(NewsNation) — Filing a tax return doesn't have to cost you money.
While some may hire a tax preparation expert or purchase online software, millions of taxpayers can file state and federal returns for free.
Here are some options to file your taxes for free before the April 15 deadline.
IRS Free File
The Internal Revenue Service, which processes tax returns, offers free access to online tax preparation sites.
The IRS Free File program partners with eight tax service companies to offer free federal tax return filings. Some of these partners also offer free state returns, too.
There is an income limit, however. To take advantage, your adjusted gross income (total income before taxes) must be $84,000 or less for 2024.
Some companies also have age and military status criteria.
To see if you qualify, check the IRS Free File site.
IRS Direct File
You can submit your returns directly to the IRS for free using the IRS Direct File program. This differs from the free file program, which uses external partnering sites.
Direct File is an option if you lived and worked in one of 25 eligible states for all of 2024.
Those states include Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington state, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
This is not a suitable option for people who earn income through the gig economy, property rentals or operating a business.
Income supported for Direct File includes wages on a W-2, Social Security, unemployment, interest and retirement.
You can determine your eligibility to file through Direct File by checking with the IRS here.
Free online tax software companies
Some companies offer free versions of their software.
Intuit TurboTax and H&R Block provide free tiers to their tax preparation services, allowing you to file a simple return, which is ideal for employees with W-2s and students.
Simple returns generally include one source of income found on a W-2 and standard deductions.
Cash App Taxes offers a free option to process federal and state returns, even complicated ones, although unlike on other sites, there is no live agent to request help.
Be sure to check individual sites to find out what is offered under the free tier. Companies may offer paid tiers to include more advanced features and filing options.
Free tax return services in person
The IRS offers free tax preparation services in person to those who qualify through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs.
VITA is for those who earn $67,000 or less, people with disabilities and limited English-speaking taxpayers. The TCE program is for those 60 or older, and it can help with questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors.
Find a location and determine what to bring to your appointment by visiting the IRS website.
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