Key stats:
Free federal filingFree state filing ailableMust download Cash App to useLive, on-demand tax help not ailableNo multiple-state filingCash App Taxes is our best free tax software pick, because it never comes with a fee, costly increase or upselling, even if your taxes are more complicated. It supports many types of income, deductions and credits, as well as state returns. There is not, however, any live tax assistance ailable — just support for the app itself — and you can't file multiple state returns or non-resident state returns. You must download Cash App to your mobile device.
What's included:
Wage and salary incomeSelf-employment incomeRetirement incomeInterest and dividend incomeEITCChild creditHSA deductionStudent loan and mortgage interest deductionEducation expenses and creditsState returnFree File through the IRSIf you are a middle-income earner, even if you he relatively complicated taxes, you should qualify to file your taxes for free through the IRS Free File program.
Free File is a program the agency runs in conjunction with a consortium of tax preparation companies called the Free File Alliance that is ailable to filers with an adjusted gross income of $84,000 or less. The IRS program is ailable even if your taxes are more complicated and you need to access other forms or schedules.
Eligible taxpayers can access what the IRS characterizes as a “guided preparation module” that helps you fill out and file your taxes. Eligibility for free state tax filing through Free File depends on your state and the Free File provider you choose.
One important thing to note: The private-sector partners in the IRS free tax filing program are many of the same big tax software companies that offer free versions of their services. However, Free File is a separate program and distinct from these company's free online offerings, such as the ones detailed above. You he to access Free File through the IRS.gov Free File portal and create an account through the program. Even if you've used the same company's commercial offerings in the past, you won't be able to use your same login credentials.
Taxpayers of all income levels can access free fillable tax forms online, although they don't he access to the same benefits as those who qualify for Free File, such as assistance with your calculations, extensive error-checking and the ability to file a free state return. If your income is higher than the threshold for Free File and you want free tax help, check out our roundup of the best tax software programs, which includes details about each company's qualifications for free filing, many of which include one state return when you file your federal return.
See if you're eligible for the IRS Direct File programThe IRS launched a free tax program called Direct File in 2024 and expanded eligibility in 2025.
The program was funded through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act and is ailable in both English and Spanish. Eligible taxpayers can complete their returns digitally using an interview-based approach on a mobile device or computer.
A quick note: The program does not support all income types, tax credits or deductions, so if you he a more complicated tax situation, you might not be eligible.
Get in-person help from a volunteerLow-income and elderly taxpayers who need in-person tax help he a few additional options, through volunteer-run tax assistance programs.
The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is ailable for low-income and disabled taxpayers, as well as those with limited English language proficiency. The agency's Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program offers free assistance with tax prep and can answer questions for taxpayers aged 60 and older. Learn more about both programs here.
Many cities such as Chicago and New York City also offer free tax-prep clinics to assist disadvantaged taxpayers. (Googling the city name plus a phrase like “free in-person tax help” can help you find out if this assistance is ailable near you.)
Key dates to knowMost filers must provide their returns and pay their bills by tax day on April 15. The IRS says Free File is ailable beginning January 10. The filing season opens for federal tax returns on Jan. 27 for federal tax returns in 2025 for 2024 tax returns.