"Tax filing season officially begins on Monday, January 26. If you missed the news last year, the IRS has ended its Direct File Service. My home state joined the program in 2025, and while it wasn't the only free option for filing taxes, I can attest it was absolutely the easiest -- especially if your tax situation goes beyond basic W-2 forms. (I was surprised to learn that fewer than 300,000 people used the service last year.)"
"Fortunately, you still have options. In fact, the majority of people can take advantage of another IRS program that's been around a lot longer than Direct File. Beyond that, there are other alternatives, rather than just choosing one of the big names and handing over your hard-earned money for tax preparation services that you don't really need. Here's a look at the best free ways to file taxes in 2026 for your 2025 income."
"Around 70% of taxpayers can use IRS Free File, making it the best option behind Direct File. Free File lets you file your federal taxes through one of eight approved partners at no cost. The biggest caveat, though, is that you can only use it if your adjusted gross income was $89,000 or less for 2025 (that's for both individuals and families). Be sure to check your partner carefully, as the federal aspect is the same, but each one handles state returns differently."
Tax filing season begins January 26. The IRS ended its Direct File service, which had limited uptake by fewer than 300,000 users. Approximately 70% of taxpayers qualify for IRS Free File if adjusted gross income was $89,000 or less for 2025. Free File allows federal returns through eight approved partners at no cost and can cover complex tax situations. Taxpayers must start preparation from the IRS Free File page to access partner offers. Each Free File partner handles state returns differently, so taxpayers should verify state filing options. Other free filing alternatives remain available beyond Free File.
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