Key takeaways
- IRS Direct File was discontinued and was not available for the 2026 filing season.
- IRS Free File offers guided software free for people under an income limit ($89,000 AGI for the 2026 season).
- VITA and TCE provide free in-person help from IRS-certified volunteers.
Paying for tax software or a preparer can cost a lot. For many people, it’s not necessary.
What happened to IRS Direct File?
Direct File, the IRS’s own free filing tool, was offered in 25 states for the 2025 filing season. The IRS discontinued it and it wasn’t available in 2026, and no return date has been announced.
IRS Free File
IRS Free File is a partnership between the IRS and private tax software companies.
- Who qualifies: For the 2026 filing season, people with adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less. The limit for returns filed in 2027 will be announced closer to the season.
- How to use it: Start at IRS.gov/FreeFile and pick a partner from there. Starting from the IRS site matters; going directly to a company’s site may lead you to a paid product.
- State returns: Some partners include a free state return; others charge.
Free File Fillable Forms
Electronic versions of IRS paper forms, available to anyone regardless of income. There’s no step-by-step guidance, so it works best if you’re comfortable doing your own return.
VITA and TCE
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Free tax prep from IRS-certified volunteers for people who generally earn about $67,000 or less, people with disabilities and limited-English speakers.
- Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE): Free help focused on people 60 and older, with expertise in pensions and retirement issues.
Find a location using the IRS’s VITA/TCE locator, typically available from January through April.
Free versions of commercial software
Many tax software companies offer free editions for simple returns. Read the fine print; free versions often exclude certain forms, deductions or state returns, and may offer paid upgrades.
Military members
MilTax, from the Department of Defense, offers free tax software and help for eligible service members and families.
Tips for filing
- Gather W-2s, 1099s and records of deductions before you start.
- File electronically and choose direct deposit for the fastest refund.
- Watch out for refund-advance offers and fees tied to paying for software with your refund.
WalletJolly may earn a commission from links on this page. Rates, prices and rules mentioned are current as of Oct. 28, 2026 and can change. This article is general information, not financial, tax, insurance or legal advice.
