IRS offers a ray of hope in the form of IRS Free File, a program providing eligible taxpayers with free access to software for preparing and filing their federal tax returns electronically. IRS Free File launched early on January 8, 2024, making tax filing more convenient before the official January 29 start.
IRS Free File 2024
The IRS Free File program is a partnership between the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and various tax preparation companies. It provides free federal tax preparation and electronic filing for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $73,000 or less.
The program offers a variety of software options to help taxpayers prepare and file their taxes online. As of 2024, the IRS Free File program continues to be available, allowing eligible taxpayers to access free tax preparation software and e-file their federal taxes.
Taxpayers can use the “Free File Software Lookup Tool” on the IRS website to find the right software for their tax situation.
IRS Free File Eligibility
To be eligible for IRS Free File 2024, your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for 2023 must fall below $79,000. This applies to:
- Single filers with AGI up to $79,000
- Head of household filers with AGI up to $118,650
- Married filing jointly filers with AGI up to $146,000
- Married filing separately filers with AGI up to $79,000
- State limitations: While you will be able to file your federal return for free, state and local tax returns may require separate filing and fees. For specifics, contact the tax office in your state.
- Software variations: Each IRS Free File partner offers different features and functionalities. Some may cater to specific tax situations, so consider your needs when choosing a software provider.
- Early launch: This year, IRS Free File launched early on January 8th, 2024, giving you extra time to prepare your return before the official filing season starts on January 29th.
How to access IRS Free File 2024?
Accessing IRS Free File is easy, and you can do it in just a few simple steps:
Visit the official IRS Free File website:
- Here, you’ll find a wealth of information about the program, including eligibility requirements, participating software providers, and helpful FAQs.
Utilize the tool “Find Your Free File Software”
- This handy tool will ask you a few questions about your income and state of residence to match you with compatible software providers.
- Simply click the “Find Your Free File Software” button on the IRS Free File website.
Choose a trusted IRS Free File partner from the list provided.
- Each partner offers unique features and functionalities, so take some time to compare them and choose the one that best suits your needs.
- You can see a list of participating software providers on the IRS Free File website.
Create an account with the chosen software provider and follow their prompts to complete your return.
- The software will guide you through the filing process step-by-step, making it easy even for those with little tax experience.
Prepare your tax return:
- Use the chosen software to prepare your federal tax return. The program is completely paperless, easy to use, safe, and secure.
E-file your tax return:
- Upon electronic submission of your federal tax return, you will receive an email confirmation.
What is new in IRS Free File 2024?
Here are the key new things in IRS Free File 2024:
- Early launch: This year, IRS Free File launched early on January 8th, 2024, giving you extra time to prepare your return before the official filing season starts on January 29th.
- IRS Direct File pilot: The IRS is launching a pilot program called IRS Direct File. This limited pilot, available in 13 states, offers eligible taxpayers the option to file their returns directly with the IRS for free, without relying on third-party software.
- While currently limited, it represents a potential future direction for simplified tax filing.
- Increased income eligibility: The income eligibility threshold for IRS Free File has increased to $79,000 for 2023 AGI.
- Updated software features: Many IRS Free File partners have updated their software with new features and functionalities for 2024.
Eligible states for IRS Direct File 2024
As of January 26, 2024, the IRS Direct File pilot program is available in the following 13 states:
- States with income tax:
- Arizona
- California
- Massachusetts
- New York
- States without income tax:
- Alaska
- Florida
- New Hampshire
- Nevada
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Washington
- Wyoming
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