It’s that time again – time to think about taxes! We get it! Filing taxes is about as exciting as scheduling a dentist appointment, but if you are expecting a rebate – the sooner you file, the sooner you will get your payout. Plus, with so many DIY tax software systems available, filing your taxes has never been easier. There’s even free tax software that most filers can use and qualify for – just pay a small fee to file for your state!
Even if you aren’t feeling 100% great about filing your taxes in 2026, we will walk you through the best places to file for free with as less stress as possible.
When can I file my tax returns?
For the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026), you’ll likely be able to start filing your taxes on January 26th, 2026.
If you’re expecting a refund, filing as early as possible after receiving your W-2s, 1099s, and other necessary documents can help you get your refund sooner. Thankfully you can pull a lot of these documents straight from your employer online and not wait for hard copy. Similarly, you can access other important forms digitally that you will need for your taxes, such as your Mortgage Interest Statement, your 1099-INT and 1099-DIV from your bank or investment accounts, 1098-T for tuition or 1098-E for student loan interest.
Now is a great time to research how to file your federal income tax return, especially since filing earlier usually means a quicker return! Fortunately, several reliable platforms offer free tax filing services online, and we’ve also got the inside scoop on the best tax software deals for those of you with more detailed tax filings.
When is tax day?
The filing deadline will be Wednesday, April 15, 2026, unless an extension is granted due to holidays or other circumstances. If you need extra time, you can request an extension, which will give you until October 15, 2026, to file, though any owed taxes must still be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties.
If you are delaying filing because you owe, DON’T! It is better to work out a repayment plan with the IRS than to put off filing and risk costly penalty fees and interest.
BEST FREE TAX FILING OPTIONS:
- Credit Karma App (using Turbo Tax) – If you didn’t file with TurboTax last year, you can score a free filing with Credit Karma no matter how complex your taxes are. This offer is only valid through 2/28 though! This includes free federal and state filings!
- Chime – This one fin-tech company that allows you to access online banking through its partner and also file your taxes for 100% free – no catch. You can even access free tax support. Just sign up for a Chime account before it is time to do your taxes, and you can file your federal and state taxes for free plus get access to your refund up to five days early!
- IRS.gov – For individuals with an AGI (your gross income minus other contributions like HSA or student loan interest) under $89,000, the IRS gives you the choice of a free guided tax software (Spanish options available). Free state filing in select states.
- TurboTax – If you have a Simple Form 1040 return only (no forms or schedules except as needed to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, student loan interest, and Schedule 1-A), you can file for free yourself with TurboTax Free Edition. If you own your home or run your own business, you will not qualify for this form.
- H&R Block – Same as TurboTax, you can file for free if you have a Simple Form 1040 return (i.e. YES to W-2s, child tax credits, + student loans; NO to mortgages, self-employment, + itemized deductions). H&R Block says that 52% of filers qualify for this free level!
- FreeTaxUSA – No matter how complicated your taxes are, you can file for free federally through FreeTaxUSA. One of The Freebie Guy admin’s has used FreeTaxUSA for three years to file complicated California taxes (including the sale of a home and self-employment income). Yes, it was really free and painless! State filing cost $15.99, and they opted for the Audit Defense add-on for $19.99, though never needed it. Available support is needed for $7.99 online support or $44.99 pro support.
- TaxSlayer – Active military can file their federal return for free! TaxSlayer also offers free services for simple filing, but they are much more limited than TurboTax and H&R Block. TaxSlayer will file your return for free if you have a W-2 with under $100,000 in earnings, and you can have standard deductions, American Opportunity Tax Credit, Life Time Learning Credit, and Student Loan Interest Deduction BUT NOT Child Tax Deductions along with other common deductions.
- TaxAct – TaxAct offers free services similarly to TurboTax and H&R Block, which allows a free simple file with a W-2 and Child Tax Deduction and Student Loan Interest.
Note that most of these services offer free tax service for federal tax filing, but there may be additional fees for state tax filing.
BEST TAX SOFTWARE DEALS AVAILABLE NOW:
These offers are updated regularly!
- Sam’s Club has value bundles on multiple tax software options. Most come with a free $10 credit for add-ons like state filing, and all currently have instant savings!
- Costco also has value bundles with $10 credits for add-ons included.
- Amazon currently has a couple of tax software programs at big discounts!
- TurboTax Deluxe 2025 Tax Software, Federal & State Tax Return $44.99 (Reg $79.99)
- TurboTax Home & Business 2025 Tax Software $75.99 (Reg $129.99)
- H&R Block Tax Software Deluxe + State 2025 with Refund Bonus Offer $36.96 (Reg $59.99)
- Fidelity Investments – If you are a member, you might get TurboTax for free!
Can you really file your taxes for free?
Yes, there are several ways to file your taxes for free, depending on your income level, tax situation, and the tools you prefer. We’ve got the best simple tax filing options above, and here are a few that are available for other unique situations:
1. IRS Free File Program
- Available through the IRS website.
- Offers free tax preparation and e-filing for individuals with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less.
- Provides access to brand-name tax software for free, but eligibility depends on income and other criteria.
2. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
- Free tax help for individuals who make $67,000 or less, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers.
- IRS-certified volunteers provide in-person assistance.
- Find a VITA site near you via the IRS website.
3. Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
- Specifically for taxpayers aged 60 and older.
- Offers free assistance with tax issues unique to seniors, such as retirement-related questions.
- Find a TCE site near you via the IRS website.
4. State-Specific Free Filing
- Some states provide free e-filing for state taxes directly on their revenue department websites.
- Check your state’s tax agency for options.
5. Local Community Resources
- Libraries, community centers, and nonprofit organizations sometimes offer free tax filing assistance.
- Look for announcements in your local area during tax season.
Make sure to gather all necessary documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, and receipts for deductions or credits, before starting.
Are there discounts available for tax filing software programs?
Professional Memberships
- Military Discounts: Many tax software providers offer free or discounted services to active-duty military members.
- AAA and AARP: Membership organizations often negotiate deals for their members on tax preparation services.
What tax freebies can I get?
To reward yourself for surviving tax day, we have a huge list of restaurants giving out Tax Day Freebies. So push submit, pat yourself on the back, and treat yourself to something yummy. You don’t have to think about taxes again until next year!
Join The Discussion