How to File Taxes Online for Free (Without Extra Fees)
MONEY SAVING TIPS, TAX
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Do I Need to File a Tax Return?
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It's time to file your original, extended or amended tax return. What are your options when you're ready? Let's look.
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Rules for filing taxes online
Taxpayers can file their federal tax return with the appropriate mailed form or by submitting it electronically to the IRS also known as efiling.
The agency processed approximately 150 million electronic tax returns in 2017 (Source: IRS Filing Season Statistics, mid-November 2017).
How to choose a tax software
You'll find many choices on the market, and most offer an error guarantee. Before you settle on the cheapest tax company, review the
- platform features
- ease of use
- visual experience
- customer support
- data import options
- tax extension
How to file taxes online for free
The members of the Free File Alliance are private tax software companies who agree to offer free IRS e-file services based on specific eligibility requirements.
Approximately 70% of the U.S. population qualifies for free online tax filing (Source: freefilealliance.org). To learn more, visit Free File: Do Your Federal Taxes for Free or irs.gov/freefile.
TIP: The more widely searched companies include TaxAct, H&R Block Free, and FreeTaxUSA (Source: Google AdWords). You can also check out Credit Karma Tax.
Before you get started with your free tax filing, you'll need a copy of your prior-year tax return and the documents for the following year's income and deductions.
Review the IRS infographic below for guidance.
Do Your Federal Taxes for Free
Source: IRS How to File Free
Need professional help? Learn how to choose an accountant or tax preparer by using our checklist here.
Last Updated: 1/26/21
DISCLAIMER
Please consult with your accountant, attorney, and financial advisor before implementing any information displayed on this website. DIY research does not replace the advice of a licensed professional who has thoroughly reviewed your file.
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