How to Get Free Help Filing Your Taxes with the IRS

Brett Hoppe
Published Mar 10, 2025

How to Get Free Help Filing Your Taxes with the IRS

Filing your tax return can be a stressful task, but the IRS offers free assistance programs to help eligible Americans navigate the process.

If you meet the requirements, you can file your taxes for free using these services instead of paying for professional help.
 

Who Qualifies for Free IRS Tax Help?

The IRS provides four major programs to assist taxpayers based on income level, military status, or other qualifying factors:

1. IRS Free File

  1. Who qualifies? Individuals with income of $84,000 or less in the last year.
  2. How it works? Provides guided tax software and fillable forms for federal tax filing.

Deadline: Available until October 15, 2025 for tax year 2024.

Access it here: IRS Free File
 

2. Direct File (Available in 25 States)

Who qualifies? Open to taxpayers in participating states filing a simple tax return.
How it works? Lets you file your federal tax return directly with the IRS online.
Features:

  • Works on phones, computers, and tablets
  • Available in English and Spanish
  • Live IRS chat assistance is provided
Access it here: Direct File
 

3. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) & Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)

Who qualifies?

  • Individuals with income of $67,000 or less
  • People with disabilities
  • Taxpayers who need language assistance
How it works? IRS-certified volunteers help prepare and electronically file tax returns for free.

TCE Focus: Specialized tax assistance for seniors (60+), pensions, and retirement questions.

Find a local site: VITA/TCE Locator


4. MilTax (For Military Members & Veterans)

Who qualifies?

  • Active-duty military personnel
  • Some veterans and their families
How it works? Provides free tax preparation software and up to three free state returns.

Access it here: MilTax Program

Why Use Free IRS Tax Help?

  1. Saves money – No need to pay for tax filing services.
  2. Ensures accuracy – Step-by-step guidance reduces filing mistakes.
  3. Easier filing – IRS-approved experts and online tools simplify the process.

Get Started Today

If you qualify, take advantage of these free resources to file your taxes with ease and avoid any unnecessary penalties.

Previous article: Americans to Receive Social Security Payments in March & April—Here's an Extra $967 in SSI for You

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