How to file your federal tax return for free in 2026

By: Amanda Wallace
NorthJersey.com
USA Today Network - New Jersey

..... Tax season is officially underway, and the Internal Revenue Service has begun accepting individual federal tax returns for 2026 through it's free guided software program, IRS Free file.
..... The IRS opened the program on January 9, [2026] allowing taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of$89,000 or less in 2025 to prepare and file their federal returns at no cost thorough eight private partners.
..... "While the filing season begins later this month, [01/2026] IRS Free Guided Tax Software allows taxpayers to prepare and submit returns now and hold them for electronic filing once the season officially begins,: the IRS said in a news release.
..... Here er the details:

What is IRS Free File?

..... IRS Free File is free tax preparation software provided to eligible taxpayers by the IRS in partnership with eight private companies.

Who is eligible?

..... For 2026, taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less in 2025 qualify to sue guided tax software products through IRS Free File.
..... Stating January 26, [2026] all taxpayers, including those with an AGI above $89,000 can sue the Free File Fillable Form. As detailed by the IRS, these forms are ideal for individuals who are "comfortable preparing their own taxes using IRS instructions and publications."

Participating providers

..... Eight private-sector partners are participation in IRS Free File in 2026: 1040Now, Drake (1040.com), ezTaxReturn.com , FileYOurTaxes.com , On-Line Taxes, TaxACt, Taxhawk (FreeTAS USA) and TaxSlayer.
..... Each partner sets its own eligibility requirements, which can include age, income, state residency and military status, the IRS said. Some partners also offer free state tax return preparation and filing.

Choosing the right product

..... To choose a Free File option, taxpayers can visit IRS.gov/freefile and follow these instructions:
1. Select "Explore Free Guided Tax Software," then select the "Find a Trusted Partner" tool for help in finding the right product, or
2. Use "Browse All Trusted Partners" to review each offer.
3. Choose the product that best fits their situation, and
4. Follow the link to the trusted partner's website to begin the tax return.
..... Free File is available on computers, smartphones and tablets, says the IRS website.
..... According to the IRS, the term "free" in the IRS Free File program means that eligible taxpayers can preparer and electronically file their federal tax returns at no cost suing tax preparation software provided by the members of the Free file Alliance.
..... This program also includes the Free File Fillable Forms application.
..... Fees may be charged by providers in certain situations, such as for state tax return preparation and filing; when the filer does not qualify for a free federal tax return based on the provider's eligibility criteria; or when the filer's adjusted gross income exceeds the Guided Tax program's threshold for eligibility.

2026 taxes:Date to know

..... The IRS will begin accepting 2025tax returns on January 26. [2026]
..... The deadline to file and pay nay taxes due is April 15. [2026]

New income tax brackets

..... In 2026, as previously reported on NorthJersey.com your tax rate for 2025 taxable income will be:
* 10%: On the first $12,400 of taxable income ($24,800 for joint filers).
* 12%: On income over $12,400 ($24,800 for joint filers).
* 22% On income over $50,500 *$100,800 for joint filers).
* 24%: On income over $105,700 (211,400 for joint filers).
* 32%: On income over $201,775 ($403,550 for joint filers).
* 35%: On income over $256,225 ($512,450 for joint filers).
* 37%: On income over $640,600 ($768,700 for joint filers).
..... For additional information and answers to frequently asked questions about IRS Free File, visit irs.gov/e-file-do-your-taxes-for-free .

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