Free Tax Filing Options for 2026 (After IRS Direct File Ends)
With IRS Direct File discontinued in 2026, here are the main free tax filing options still available:
- IRS Free File
- Allows you to file federal taxes for free through partner online tax preparation services.
- Only for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) less than $84,000.
- State tax filing may not be free or available.
- More details and links are available on the IRS Free File website.
- Free File Fillable Forms
- Open to all income levels.
- Requires manual entry and calculations; best for those comfortable preparing their own taxes.
- Federal tax filing only (no state forms).
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) & Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
- Free, in-person tax help for:
- People making $67,000 or less
- Persons with disabilities
- Limited English speakers
- Older adults
- Find local sites on the IRS VITA/TCE locator tool.
- MilTax
- Free for eligible military service members, families, survivors, and recently separated veterans.
- Includes both federal and most state returns.
- Details at Military OneSource MilTax.
- Private Companies’ Free Filing Offers
- FreeTaxUSA: Free federal e-filing for all, regardless of income; state filing costs $15.99.
- TurboTax: Free for simple returns; about 37% of filers qualify.
- H&R Block: Free for simple returns; about 55% of filers qualify.
- Read eligibility details carefully, as not all situations or forms qualify.
- State-Specific Free Filing
- Some states operate their own free e-filing programs.
- Residents of states with no income tax do not need to file a state return.
Key Points
- IRS Direct File will not be available in 2026.
- IRS Free File and Fillable Forms, VITA/TCE, MilTax, and limited free private company options remain.
- Check eligibility rules and availability, especially for state returns.