Get Ahead of Tax Season: IRS Free File Opens Jan. 10 for Easy Pre-Filing!

Get ready, tax filers! The Internal Revenue Service is set to unveil its enhanced IRS Free File guided online tax software on Friday, January 10, 2025. This early access is a fantastic opportunity for qualifying taxpayers to get a head start ahead of the official tax season that kicks off later this month.

According to an IRS spokesperson, this early availability means you can prepare and submit your returns before the IRS officially opens its doors for processing. While they’ll be in the queue until processing kicks off later in January, why not take advantage of the head start?

Typically, the IRS begins processing individual tax returns in the last week of January (likely around January 20 or 27 this year). For a sneak peek at when you might see your refund, check out this estimated calendar.

“The IRS remains dedicated to working hand-in-hand with Free File Inc. to provide taxpayers with free and secure electronic filing options,” stated IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Taxpayers are equipped with various filing choices—be it trusted tax professionals, tax software, Free File, Direct File, or free preparation services through IRS partners. Over the years, Free File has been a game-changer for millions of taxpayers, delivering a fast and simple way to file. This program continues to be an essential resource for eligible individuals aiming to file their taxes without spending a dime.”

Entering its 23^rd filing season, IRS Free File stands as just one of the many free options available to taxpayers, whether you prefer to file online or in person. This service shines thanks to a powerful public-private partnership between the IRS and Free File Inc. (previously known as the Free File Alliance). Through this collaboration, tax prep and filing software providers offer their online products to eligible taxpayers at no cost. To access these valuable tools, simply start from the IRS Free File page on IRS.gov.

This year, eight private-sector partners will bring their guided online tax software to the table specifically for taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less for 2024. Plus, one of these partners will cater to Spanish-speaking taxpayers.

If your AGI exceeds $84,000, fear not! You can utilize the Free File Fillable Forms (FFFF) starting January 27. These electronic versions of IRS paper forms are perfect for those who feel comfortable preparing their own taxes using IRS instructions and guidelines.

Diving into IRS Free File

Each IRS Free File trusted partner sets its own eligibility criteria based on factors like age, income, state residency, and military status.

Taxpayers with an AGI of $84,000 or less in 2024 can find IRS Free File products that may even include free state tax return preparation and filing. Additionally, all partners offer free tax preparation and filing to active-duty military personnel with an AGI of $84,000 or less in 2024.

Utilize IRS Free File to claim valuable tax credits if you’re eligible

IRS Free File empowers taxpayers with a simple, cost-free means of claiming the full range of tax benefits available, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit, and other significant credits. The EITC is available to qualified taxpayers with earned income under $66,819. The EITC Assistant, accessible in English and seven additional languages, can help determine your eligibility.

The EITC is just one of many refundable tax credits related to family and dependent care that individuals without a filing requirement can still claim. Refundable tax credits allow you to receive a refund even if you owe no tax; in some cases, these credits can reduce your tax liability, resulting in a refund. For further details on the EITC and other tax credits, check out the Earned Income Tax Credit.

Finding the right IRS Free File product

You’ll be in charge of confirming your eligibility for a free federal tax return from the list of trusted partners.

1. Head over to IRS.gov/freefile,
2. Click on the Explore Free Guided Tax Software button. From there, select the Find a Trusted Partner tool to discover the perfect product for you, or
3. Utilize the Browse All Trusted Partners tool to explore all available offers,
4. Select your desired product, and
5. Follow the links to the trusted partner’s website to start your tax return.

No computer? No stress! IRS Free File products are mobile-friendly, so you can tackle your taxes right from your smartphone or tablet.

Meet the IRS Free File participants

The following trusted partners are on board for IRS Free File in 2025:

1. 1040Now
2. Drake (1040.com)
3. ezTaxReturn.com
4. FileYourTaxes.com
5. On-Line Taxes
6. TaxAct
7. TaxHawk (FreeTaxUSA)
8. TaxSlayer

This year, ezTaxReturn.com will also offer an IRS Free File product in Spanish.

IRS Free File is your ticket to saving money and filing your taxes quickly and effortlessly. For more information or to get started on your tax return today, visit IRS Free File: Do your taxes for free.