How can I file taxes for free?

Looking to file taxes for free? Look no further because we've got you covered. Many places, including the IRS, now offer free tax filing services in 2023. Whether you’re a regular 9-5 employee, self-employed or both, you can take advantage of these services if you meet certain conditions. American taxpayers also have the option to e-file taxes at no cost.

IRS Free File

In 2023, the IRS announced the launch of “IRS Free File,” an initiative that allows taxpayers to prepare and file their tax returns for free. This program was announced to help make the tax filing process more accessible to the general public.

Their free tax filing service partners with tax preparation providers and offers its users software that fills out the forms, calculates their taxes, and files their returns accurately. To use IRS Free File, individuals need to have an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less in 2022.  

Your AGI can be found on Form 1040. If you’re self-employed, it can be affected by your tax write-offs reported on your Schedule C, as you will deduct these expenses from your gross income.

Can taxpayers still use IRS Free File if they have an AGI over $73,000? Yes, they can, but only limited guidance will be provided and they will have to calculate their taxes themselves. There is also no option to prepare or file state tax returns.

To make things easier, you can use a Self-employed income tax calculator to calculate your SECA tax. You can also use a 1099 tax calculator so that you can know what you owe and get those valuable tax deductions, as well as a Quarterly tax calculator so that you never overpay or underpay on a quarterly tax payment again. Missed a tax deadline? Find out what you owe the IRS with our Tax penalty calculator.

Are there any other options to file taxes for free?

Other tax preparation providers who charge for tax filing often offer some free services that taxpayers can take advantage of. But those options are often limited in guidance, they may not offer all the forms you need and sometimes may not work if your returns are a little more complicated.

The IRS has a volunteer-run tax preparation service called VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) and TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) that offers free tax preparation and filing to individuals who qualify.

These services are open to individuals who are disabled, elderly or speak little English. Volunteers are trained in tax law and must pass the training provided in order to start working for VITA and TCE.

These tax services are a great option for taxpayers looking to file taxes for free. However, these options may not work for you if you are filing any extra forms, or are looking to get the maximum  tax refund from your returns.  

If you’re self-employed, try FlyFin by linking your expenses, and our A.I. tax engine will take care of the rest. A.I. scans your expenses to find every possible deduction that you can use to lower your tax bill every tax season. The CPA team of experts in 1099 taxes will prepare and file your tax returns for you, and you can reach out to them 24/7 in the app to ask any tax question.