| Free Method | Income-Related Restrictions | State Return Included? | Best For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Karma Free Edition | No income limit | No; state returns are just $15 per state | Filers with any tax situation who want personalized guidance |
| IRS Free File Portal | Restricted to $89,000 AGI or less | Varies by partner software; not all include free state filing, and some charge extra. | Lower-income filers who are comfortable navigating filing with one of the IRS’s external partners |
| IRS Free Fillable Forms | No income limit | No. Federal only; unguided electronic paper forms with minimal calculation help. | Tax professionals or experienced DIYers who don’t need math verification. |
| VITA / TCE Programs | Restricted to ~$69,000 or less (VITA), or ages 60+ (TCE). | Yes, but may depend on appointment availability. | Senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, and limited-English filers. |
Source: Internal Revenue Service
Credit Karma Tax Software
Credit Karma offers a free filing option for simple returns that walks you through completing your return step by step.
- Every form, every situation (self-employed, investors, and more)
- All forms included
- Powered by TurboTax
- Personalized guidance
- Maximum refund¹ and 100% accuracy² guarantee
In addition to the free federal filing, you can do your state tax returns for just $15 per state.
IRS Free File
IRS Free File is available for filers with a 2025 adjusted gross income (AGI) of $89,000 or less. There are two options for filing your taxes for free:
- Guided tax software: Eight approved partner companies participate for the 2026 filing season to offer free guided filing at no cost to eligible taxpayers. Some partners include free state filing, while others charge for it.
- Free fillable forms: You complete your return on your own, using form instructions as guidance. No state tax filing included.
VITA & TCE
VITA and TCE connect you with IRS-certified volunteers who prepare and e-file your return in person.
- VITA generally serves people earning $69,000 or less, as well as filers with disabilities or limited English proficiency.
- TCE focuses on taxpayers age 60 and older, especially retirement income questions.
- Many sites require an appointment, and slots fill quickly in peak season.
IRS Direct File and Your 2026 Taxes
The IRS discontinued its Direct File pilot program, so it’s no longer available for 2026 tax filing.
How to File Your Return for Free: Step-by-Step
Once you know which option fits, here’s how to get started:
- Gather your W-2s, 1099s, and last year’s return.
- Choose a free method based on income and return type.
- Create an account with your chosen provider.
- Answer the guided questions or fill out your forms.
- Double-check your entries and refund method.
- E-file your federal and state (if included) returns.
- Save your confirmation and track your refund.
Need more guidance? Learn how to file taxes with our step-by-step guide.
¹ If you get a larger refund or smaller tax due from another tax preparation method by filing an amended return, we’ll refund the applicable TurboTax federal and/or state purchase price paid. (Free Credit Karma Tax customers are entitled to payment of $30.) This guarantee is good for the lifetime of your individual tax return, which Intuit defines as seven years from the date you filed it with Free Credit Karma Tax. Additional terms and limitations apply. See TurboTax Terms of Service for details.
² If you pay an IRS or state penalty or interest because of a Free Credit Karma Tax calculation error, we’ll pay you the penalty and interest. You are responsible for paying any additional tax liability you may owe. Excludes payment plans. This guarantee is good for the lifetime of your individual or business tax return, which Intuit defines as seven years from the date you filed it with Free Credit Karma Tax. Additional terms and limitations apply. See TurboTax Terms of Service for details.
