WASHINGTON, D.C. — Millions of taxpayers who have not yet filed their 2025 federal returns can still access free filing tools and assistance through IRS.gov ahead of the April deadline, federal officials said.
What This Means for You
- You may qualify to file your federal taxes for free online
- Free in-person and virtual help is available for eligible taxpayers
- Filing electronically can speed up refunds and reduce errors
The Internal Revenue Service said electronic filing, or e-filing — submitting tax returns online rather than by mail — remains the fastest and most secure way to file and receive refunds.
Free Filing Options Available
Taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less can use IRS Free File, a program that provides guided tax preparation software at no cost through partnerships with private companies.
The service offers step-by-step instructions, automatic calculations, and, in some cases, free state tax filing. Officials emphasized that taxpayers must access the program through IRS.gov to ensure eligibility for free services.
Those who prefer to complete their returns independently can use Free File Fillable Forms, which are available regardless of income level.
Additional Help for Eligible Taxpayers
The IRS also highlighted several programs offering free assistance.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs provide in-person support from IRS-certified volunteers for qualifying individuals.
Military members and some veterans can use MilTax, a Department of Defense program that allows free filing of federal returns and up to five state returns.
IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said the agency is focused on making tax filing more accessible.
“IRS Free File demonstrates the IRS’s commitment to providing taxpayers an easy and secure way to prepare and file their federal tax return at no cost,” Bisignano said.
Tools and Resources on IRS.gov
The agency’s website includes a range of tools to help taxpayers complete their returns, including step-by-step filing guides, payment options, and refund tracking through the “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
Refund updates are typically available within 24 hours for electronically filed returns, compared to six weeks or more for paper filings.
Tips to Avoid Delays and Fraud
Officials encouraged taxpayers to use direct deposit to receive refunds more quickly and securely, noting that the federal government is moving away from paper checks.
Taxpayers are also advised to verify bank account information before filing and to remain alert for scams and fraudulent activity related to tax filings.
Additional information and filing tools are available at IRS.gov.
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