Everyone can use Free File
Filed a tax extension? You can use Free File to do your federal tax return through October 15, 2012.
Free File is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No lines. No waiting. No fees. Use Free File to prepare and e-file your tax return. It's ready when you are. Best of all, when you e-file and select direct deposit, you can get your refund in as few as 10 days.
Free File does the hard work for you – fast.
Join the 33 million taxpayers who already have used Free File safely and securely. When you e-file through Free File, your personal financial information is transmitted to the IRS using the latest encryption technology. You'll get an electronic receipt saying your return has been received by the IRS. You can even print a paper copy of your federal tax return for your records.
There is a Free File option for everyone. Explore which Free File service – offered exclusively at IRS.gov/freefile – fits your situation: easy-to-use, brand-name tax preparation software or online fillable forms.
What is Free File?
Free File is a free service that offers free federal tax preparation and e-file options for all taxpayers. Free File is made possible through a public-private partnership between the IRS and commercial tax software companies. All taxpayers have a Free File option.
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Who can use Free File?
Everyone can use IRS Free File. If your adjusted gross income was $57,000 or less in 2011, use brand-name software to do your taxes for free. If your income was more, use Free File Fillable Forms.
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Why should I use Free File?
Taxes can be, well, taxing. Free File does the hard work for you. There's no need for you to be a tax expert. Software provides step-by-step guidance. You get a more accurate tax return. It helps you get the tax credit and deductions you're due. And you can transmit your return electronically for free with IRS e-file. Best of all, if you use e-file and select direct deposit, you can get your refund in as few as 10 days.
What information do I need to get started?
Make sure you have your W2s or 1099s plus records for any deductions.
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What if this is my first time filing federal taxes?
Free File is great for first-time filers. Software guides you through the process; helps find tax breaks; and e-files your federal return – all for free. Get started at www.irs.gov/freefile.
What is e-File?
IRS e-file is the highly secure way to transmit your federal tax return to the IRS. It uses the latest encryption standards to safely and securely protect your personal data.
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Why should I e-File?
IRS e-file is the most popular way to transmit your tax return. More than 70 percent of taxpayers e-filed last year. It's safe and secure. It's more accurate. If you e-file and select direct deposit, you can get your refund in as few as 10 days. If you owe taxes, you can file now and pay by April 17. You should opt for e-file whether you use software or a paid tax preparer.
About the Free File Alliance
The Free File Alliance, LLC is a group of industry-leading private-sector tax preparation companies that have agreed to meet the IRS' high standards for security and privacy and provide tax software options for free.*
*The IRS does not endorse any individual Free File Alliance company. While the IRS manages the content of the Free File pages accessible on IRS.gov, it does not retain any taxpayer information entered on the Free File site.