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File Taxes Online For Free

Filing taxes can be a daunting task, especially when you consider the complexity of the tax code. In the past, filing taxes meant hours spent filling out forms, and then mailing them off to the IRS. Fortunately, technology has made this process much simpler for taxpayers. Nowadays, there are numerous options for filing taxes online, and many of them are available for free. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to file taxes online for free.

Why File Taxes Online?

Before we dive into the details of how to file taxes online for free, let’s first discuss why you should consider doing so. There are several benefits to filing taxes online, including:

– Less room for error: When you file your taxes by hand, there is a greater chance of making mistakes. This could result in a delay in processing your return or even trigger an audit by the IRS. Filing taxes online reduces the likelihood of errors since the software can double-check your math and flag any inconsistencies.

– Faster processing: When you file your taxes online, the IRS typically processes your return much faster than if you were to file by mail. This means you’ll get your refund (if applicable) more quickly.

– More accurate calculations: Filing taxes online means that the software will do all the math for you. This eliminates the need for you to do any calculations yourself, which is especially helpful if you’re not comfortable with math.

– More convenient: Filing taxes online can be done from the comfort of your own home, which is much more convenient than having to make an appointment with a tax professional or go to a tax center.

Now that we’ve established why you should consider filing taxes online, let’s move on to how to do it for free.

Free File Program

The IRS has a program called Free File, which provides free online tax preparation and filing services to eligible taxpayers. The program is a partnership between the IRS and a consortium of private tax software companies. If your adjusted gross income (AGI) is $72,000 or less, you’re eligible to use Free File to file your federal taxes for free. Some software companies also offer free state tax preparation and filing, depending on where you live.

To use Free File, you’ll need to visit the IRS website and click on the Free File link. From there, you’ll be directed to a list of participating software providers. Each provider has its own eligibility criteria, so be sure to read the details to make sure you qualify. Once you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll need to create an account, enter your tax information, and submit your return. The software will handle the rest.

It’s worth noting that not all providers offer the same level of service. Some may be more user-friendly than others, or have more comprehensive tax filing options. You’ll need to do your research to find the provider that’s right for you.

IRS Free File Fillable Forms

If you don’t qualify for Free File, or you prefer to fill out your tax forms by hand, you can use the IRS Free File Fillable Forms program. This program provides electronic versions of the IRS paper forms, which you can fill out and submit online. It’s important to note that this option is only for those who are comfortable with doing their taxes by hand, as there is no software to help you along the way.

To use the Free File Fillable Forms program, you’ll need to visit the IRS website and click on the link for the program. From there, you’ll be directed to a page where you can choose the form you need to fill out. Once you’ve ed a form, you’ll need to enter your information manually. It’s important to double-check your work for accuracy, since there is no software to catch any mistakes.

Tax Preparation Software

In addition to the IRS Free File program, there are also many commercial tax preparation software programs available that offer free filing options. Some of the most popular include:

– TurboTax: TurboTax offers a free edition that includes federal and state tax preparation and filing for those with simple tax returns.
– H&R Block: H&R Block offers a free edition that includes federal and state tax preparation and filing for those with simple tax returns.
– TaxAct: TaxAct offers a free edition that includes federal and state tax preparation and filing for those with simple tax returns.
– Credit Karma Tax: Credit Karma Tax offers free federal and state tax preparation and filing for all users, regardless of the complexity of their returns.

It’s important to note that these free options may have limitations, such as not supporting certain tax forms or deductibles. You’ll need to read the details carefully to ensure that the software you choose meets your needs.

Conclusion

Filing taxes online for free is an option that many taxpayers should consider. There are numerous options available, including the IRS Free File program, Free File Fillable Forms, and commercial tax preparation software. Each option has its own eligibility criteria and limitations, so it’s important to do your research to find the right solution for your needs. Filing taxes online can save you time, reduce the likelihood of errors, and provide a more convenient way to file your taxes. So, don’t delay – start researching your options today and get started on filing your taxes online for free.


How to File your Taxes for Free Online

Every fiscal year, the Internal Revenue Service will offer individuals (specifically taxpayers) a comprehensive list of websites that allow taxpayers to electronically prepare and file their income tax returns without any attached fees.

To file your income tax returns for free, you must first visit the Internal Revenue Service’s online page, located at www.irs.gov. Towards the top of the page, there is a link towards the top of the page that will denote free filing for all individuals who meet the eligibility requirements of the program. The program offered by the Internal Revenue Service, known as ‘Free File’ completes the filing processes for the taxpayer with brand-name software or by satisfying online Fillable Forms.

Free File is a complimentary federal income tax prep and electronic filing program made available to eligible taxpayers. Free File was developed through a partnership between the Internal Revenue Service and the Free File Alliance, an agglomeration of private sector tax software companies. All taxpayers can satisfy their federal income tax returns by accessing commercial software provided by any of the Free File Alliance companies. Those that wish to access Free File have until April 18, 2011 to file and pay their tax.

Who is eligible: The Free File program is only offered to taxpayers with a 2010 Adjusted Gross Income of $58,000 or less. That being said, each participating company sets their own eligibility requirements and not all taxpayers will meet the specific guidelines set by the underlying companies. Individual companies will offer their specific programs based on the taxpayer’s Adjusted Gross income, geographic location, and guidelines instituted by individual states. If a taxpayer is filing using the Married Filing Jointly status, the $58,000 AGI boundary applies to the adjusted gross income for both parties combined.

All of the necessary software will be available to the taxpayer; no downloads are required to participate in the Free Filing program. Additionally, all Free File company sites are equipped with the most updated encryption programs to ensure privacy protection.

Some participating Free File Alliance companies will offer Free State tax return preparation and e-file. When you participate in this program, you must electronically sign the federal income tax return with either the previous year’s Annual Gross Income or with an electronic personal identification number. The e-filing PIN, which is a five digit number, is easy to obtain and personalized—the individual taxpayer chooses their PIN.

To investigate your eligibility requirements for free electronic filing, you must go to IRS website, access their free filing offer. After you have chosen this option you will need to select which participating company you’d like to file status with. There are currently 17 companies that offer the E-filing free tax forms; each company (as stated before) possesses unique eligibility requirements for those that wish to file. Additionally, the companies will offer their free filing status based on the state in which the taxpayer resides.