You can still file your federal tax return for free in the US. The main routes are IRS Free File (guided software for incomes up to a set limit), Free File Fillable Forms (any income), VITA and TCE (free help from IRS-certified volunteers) and MilTax for the military. The IRS’s own Direct File tool is gone, so here is what is left and who each one suits.
Quick comparison
| Option | Who can use it | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| IRS Free File | AGI of $84,000 or less (2026 season) | Most workers with simple to moderate returns |
| Free File Fillable Forms | Any income | Confident filers who know the forms |
| VITA | Generally income of $67,000 or less, people with disabilities, limited English speakers | People who want a person to prepare it |
| TCE | Mainly age 60 and older | Retirement income, pensions, Social Security |
| MilTax | Service members, families, some veterans | Military pay, moves, multiple states |
| Free commercial versions | Simple returns only | W-2 only, standard deduction |
1. IRS Free File
IRS Free File is a partnership between the IRS and private tax software companies. If your adjusted gross income was $84,000 or less in the 2026 filing season, you could use guided software at no cost for your federal return, and some partners also include a free state return. The IRS sets a new income limit each season, so check IRS.gov/freefile when it opens in January.
Tip: always start from the IRS Free File page. Going straight to a company’s website can land you in a different “free” product that charges for upgrades.
2. Free File Fillable Forms
These are electronic versions of the paper IRS forms with basic math built in. There is no income limit, but there is also no interview to guide you and no state return. It works best if you have filed by hand before.
3. VITA and TCE
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program has IRS-certified volunteers prepare and e-file your return for free, generally if you earn about $67,000 or less, have a disability or speak limited English. Tax Counseling for the Elderly focuses on people 60 and older and on pension and retirement questions. Find a site with the IRS locator tool or by calling 800-906-9887. Bring your ID, Social Security cards, all W-2s and 1099s, and last year’s return.
4. MilTax
MilTax, from the Department of Defense, offers free software and expert help for service members and their families, including federal and several state returns.
5. Free versions of commercial software
Most big brands have a free tier, but it usually covers only simple returns: W-2 income, the standard deduction and a few common credits. Self-employment income, investments or itemizing often trigger a paid upgrade. Read the fine print before you start.
What happened to IRS Direct File?
Direct File let people in about two dozen states file straight with the IRS for free. The IRS shut it down and it was not offered for the 2026 filing season, so the options above are the free routes left.
How to choose
- Simple W-2 return and income under the limit: IRS Free File.
- Want someone to do it with you: VITA, or TCE if you are 60+.
- Higher income but simple return: Free File Fillable Forms.
- Military: MilTax.
Before you file, check whether you should take the standard deduction. Our guide to the 2027 standard deduction has the new amounts, and our capital gains tax calculator helps if you sold investments.
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Frequently asked questions
Is free tax filing really free?
IRS Free File, Fillable Forms, VITA, TCE and MilTax are free for your federal return. Commercial free tiers can charge for state returns or extra forms.
When can I file?
The IRS usually opens the filing season in late January, and the normal deadline is April 15.
Can I file my state return for free?
Often, yes. Some Free File partners and VITA sites include state returns, and many states have their own free options.
This article is general information, not financial or tax advice.
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