How to File Your Taxes for Free: A Step-by-Step Guide

## Gather Your Documents Before starting the tax filing process, collect these essential documents: - **W-2 Forms**: From employers, showing annual wages and withheld taxes - **1099 Forms**: For freelance or contract work ($600 or more) - **1098 Forms**: Reporting mortgage interest, student loan interest, and tuition - Social Security numbers for you, spouse, and dependents - Bank account information for direct deposit - Previous year's tax return - Receipts for deductions ## Free Filing Options ### IRS Free File The [IRS Free File](https://www.irs.gov/filing/irs-free-file-do-your-taxes-for-free) program is available for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less. To use this service: 1. Calculate your AGI by adding all income sources 2. Visit the IRS Free File page 3. Use the lookup tool to find participating services ### Free Tax Software Several companies offer free versions for simple tax returns: - [TurboTax Free Edition](https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/online/free-edition.jsp) - [H&R Block Free Online](https://www.hrblock.com/online-tax-filing/free-online-tax-filing/) - [TaxAct Free Edition](https://www.taxact.com/) - [Credit Karma Tax](https://www.creditkarma.com/tax) - [Cash App Taxes](https://cash.app/taxes) ### Free File Fillable Forms If your AGI exceeds $73,000, you can use IRS Free File Fillable Forms, which requires: - Basic tax knowledge - Manual calculations - Ability to work without guidance - No state tax return preparation ## Step-by-Step Filing Process 1. **Create an Account** - Set up an account with your chosen service - Save your progress as needed 2. **Enter Information** - Input personal details and Social Security numbers - Enter income information from W-2s and 1099s 3. **Claim Deductions and Credits** - Review eligibility for credits like EITC or Child Tax Credit - Document all applicable deductions 4. **Review and Submit** - Double-check all entries - Verify banking information - Print or save a copy - Keep confirmation numbers ## Free Assistance Programs * [Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers): For those making $60,000 or less * Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) * IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service ## Security and Documentation > Always ensure you're using official websites by checking for secure connections (https://) Keep tax documents for at least three years using: ``` - Cloud storage services - External hard drives - Password-protected folders ``` ## Additional Resources - [IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center](https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-your-local-irs-office) - [Taxpayer Advocate Service](https://www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/) - [MyFreeTaxes](https://myfreetaxes.com/) *** Remember to file by the standard deadline (typically April 15th) or request a free extension using Form 4868 to avoid penalties and interest.

How to File Your Taxes for Free: A Step-by-Step Guide

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