Overview
- Eligible taxpayers can prepare and submit returns now through Free File, with e-filing to begin when tax season opens on Jan. 26.
- Guided Tax Software is available at no cost for filers with 2025 AGI of $89,000 or less, and Free File Fillable Forms for any income level go live Jan. 26.
- To receive the free offering, users must start at IRS.gov/FreeFile rather than a provider’s commercial website.
- Eight companies are participating in 2026: 1040Now, Drake/1040.com, ezTaxReturn.com, FileYourTaxes.com, On-Line Taxes, TaxAct, TaxHawk/FreeTaxUSA, and TaxSlayer.
- Providers may charge for state returns or when users do not meet partner criteria, upselling is prohibited, companies guarantee calculations, and active-duty military within the AGI limit get a free federal return.