The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is kicking off the 2025 tax season with the return of its IRS Free File program, offering millions of taxpayers a fast, secure, and cost-free way to file their taxes electronically. Starting January 10, taxpayers can access this invaluable service by visiting the IRS website, just in time for the official start of the filing season later this month.
“The IRS is dedicated to providing free and secure tax filing options to taxpayers across the nation,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Through trusted partnerships and innovative solutions, IRS Free File continues to serve as an accessible resource for eligible individuals to file their taxes with ease.”
What Is IRS Free File?
Entering its 23rd year, the IRS Free File program is a collaborative initiative between the IRS and Free File Inc., a coalition of private-sector tax software providers. These partners offer guided tax preparation software at no cost to eligible taxpayers, ensuring a seamless filing experience.
For 2025, eight private-sector partners are participating in the program, with at least one offering services in Spanish. Taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less can utilize this service to prepare and file both federal and, in many cases, state tax returns for free.
Key Benefits of IRS Free File
- Claim Tax Credits: IRS Free File helps taxpayers claim valuable credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit. The EITC is available to qualified individuals with earned income under $66,819, and the EITC Assistant is available in multiple languages to help determine eligibility.
- File Early: Participants can begin preparing their returns now and hold them until the IRS officially starts processing later this month.
- Secure and Easy Access: The Free File Fillable Forms option is available for individuals with an AGI above $84,000 who prefer preparing their own taxes. All IRS Free File products are mobile-friendly, allowing taxpayers to file via smartphone or tablet.
How to Access IRS Free File
Finding the right Free File product is simple:
- Visit IRS Free File.
- Click on “Explore Free Guided Tax Software.”
- Use the “Find a Trusted Partner” tool to determine eligibility or browse all partner offers.
- Follow the link to the selected partner’s website to start your return.
Trusted Partners for 2025
This year’s participating partners include:
- 1040Now
- Drake (1040.com)
- ezTaxReturn.com (also available in Spanish)
- FileYourTaxes.com
- On-Line Taxes
- TaxAct
- TaxHawk (FreeTaxUSA)
- TaxSlayer
A Seamless Filing Experience for All
The IRS Free File program provides taxpayers with an easy and efficient way to file their taxes without unnecessary costs. Whether you’re eligible for guided tax preparation software or prefer using fillable forms, IRS Free File ensures a secure and accessible option for all.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to save money and simplify your tax filing this season. Visit IRS Free File to get started today!