IRS Free File Opens in a new tab. is a free online software program available on IRS.gov that taxpayers can use to prepare and file federal individual income tax returns for free using tax preparation and filing software.

IRS Free File has two options: 1) Guided Tax Software, and 2) Free File Fillable Forms. Use Free File Software if your adjusted gross income is $84,000 or less and Free File Fillable Forms if your income is greater than $84,000.

Please note that nonresident aliens for tax purposes cannot use IRS Free File Software or Free File Fillable Forms. Please go to the International Center’s Tax website for information about how to file a federal individual income tax return as a nonresident alien for tax purposes.

Guided Tax Software (Adjusted Gross Income $84,000 and below):

Guided Tax Software features brand-name tax software providers who are in a partnership with the IRS to offer their online products for free. Each provider sets additional eligibility requirements, generally based on age, state residency and income.

Here’s how Guided Tax Software works:

  1. Go to https://irs.gov/freefile Opens in a new tab. and click the button “Explore Guided Tax Software” to see all Free File options.
  2. Browse each of the offers or use a “look up” tool to help you find the right product. Each Free File partner sets its own eligibility standards generally based on income, age and state residency. But if your adjusted gross income was $84,000 or less, you will find at least one free product to use.
  3. Select a provider and follow the links to their web page to begin your tax return.
  4. Complete and file your tax return only if you have all the income and deduction records you need. The fastest way to get a refund is by filing electronically and selecting direct deposit. If you owe, use direct pay or electronic options.

Free File Fillable Forms (Income above $84,000):

If your income is more than $84,000, you can use Free File Fillable Forms, a free forms-based tool enabling you to select your income tax forms, enter your tax information, print and e-file your federal income tax return. Free File Fillable Forms is best for those taxpayers experienced in preparing returns by hand and with limited assistance. If you’re not comfortable completing a paper return by hand, without software to guide you, you should consider another method of filing your income tax return. To access Free File Fillable Forms, please go to the IRS’s Fillable Forms website. Opens in a new tab.

Please note UT Dallas and the IRS do not endorse any individual Free File company or retain any taxpayer information entered on the Free File site. UT Dallas cannot provide individual tax filing advice, and recommends consulting with a tax professional for specific tax questions and assistance.

The IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who generally make $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and taxpayers with limited English language proficiency who need assistance in preparing their own income tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals.

For more information please visit the IRS website https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers Opens in a new tab..