YOUR COMPLETE, CONFIDENT GUIDE TO FREE TAX‑FILING RESOURCES FOR 2026

THE PRESS CENTER | BREAKING NEWS | TAX

MARCH 22 2026 AT 8:44 AM

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FREE TAX‑FILING OPTIONS FOR 2026: YOUR DEFINITIVE, EMPOWERING GUIDE TO FILING WITH CONFIDENCE

THE PRESS CENTER | BREAKING NEWS | IRS / TAX MARCH 21, 2026 — 11:17 PM IR‑2026‑38 | March 20, 2026 WASHINGTON, D.C.

The Internal Revenue Service issues a powerful reminder to every taxpayer preparing to file their 2025 federal tax return: you have free, secure, and accessible tools at your fingertips, all designed to help you file with clarity, accuracy, and absolute confidence. Whether you prefer to take charge and prepare your own return or you thrive with guided support, IRS.gov equips you with everything you need to succeed.

Electronic filing remains the fastest, safest, and most reliable way to submit your return—and you have the full ability to use it with ease.

IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano reinforces this commitment: “IRS Free File demonstrates our dedication to giving taxpayers an easy, secure, and cost‑free way to prepare and file their federal tax return. Free assistance is also available through VITA/TCE, MilTax, and IRS.gov.”

IRS FREE FILE: YOUR GATEWAY TO NO‑COST, HIGH‑CONFIDENCE TAX PREPARATION

IRS Free File—available exclusively on IRS.gov—is a powerful public‑private partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a coalition of trusted tax‑software providers. This program exists to ensure that every eligible taxpayer has access to professional‑grade tools without paying a single dollar.

If your adjusted gross income is $89,000 or less, you qualify for guided tax software at no cost.

This software empowers you with:

• A variety of trusted products tailored to different needs
• Clear, step‑by‑step guidance through simple, intuitive questions
• Accurate, automated calculations that reinforce your confidence
• Potential free state tax filing, depending on the provider

To activate these benefits, taxpayers must begin their return directly from the IRS Free File page on IRS.gov..

Prefer to prepare your return independently?

You can use IRS Free File Fillable Forms, available to all taxpayers regardless of income, giving you full control with no barriers.

FREE, TRUSTED HELP FOR TAXPAYERS WHO WANT SUPPORT

You are never alone in the filing process. The IRS provides multiple avenues for expert, no‑cost assistance:

• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) / Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) IRS‑certified volunteers offer free, high‑quality tax preparation for eligible individuals.
• MilTax Active‑duty service members, reservists, Coast Guard personnel, and qualifying veterans can prepare and e‑file federal and up to five state returns for free through this Department of Defense program.

IRS.GOV: YOUR 24/7 HUB FOR ACCURATE, EMPOWERING TAX RESOURCES

IRS.gov provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed to help you file accurately, efficiently, and on time:

• How to File Your Taxes: Step by Step — A clear, complete guide to Form 1040
• Let Us Help You — A centralized hub for filing and payment resources
• One, Big, Beautiful Bill Provisions — Updates on tax law changes that may affect your refund or liability
• Where’s My Refund? — Real‑time refund tracking (available ~24 hours after e‑filing or 6+ weeks after mailing)
• Pay Electronically — Fast, secure payment options

ESSENTIAL TIPS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR FILING EXPERIENCE

These actions help ensure your filing process is smooth, secure, and fully in your control:

• Create an IRS Individual Online Account Access your tax records, refund status, and secure IRS communications anytime.
• Use Direct Deposit for Refunds It’s the fastest, safest way to receive your money. The IRS is phasing out paper checks under the executive order Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account.
• Open a Bank Account if Needed Explore options through the FDIC, the National Credit Union Locator Tool, or the Veterans Benefits Banking Program. Always verify routing and account numbers before filing.
• Stay Alert to Tax Scams and Fraud Learn how to recognize, avoid, and report fraudulent activity to protect your identity and your refund.

SOURCE CREDIT: IRS.GOV