This guide shows you exactly how to file your US federal income tax return online for free using IRS Free File — the official government program available to anyone earning under $84,000 per year.
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- W-2 form from your employer (or 1099 if self-employed)
- Bank account and routing number for direct deposit of your refund
- Last year’s adjusted gross income (for identity verification)
Who Can Use IRS Free File
IRS Free File is available to any taxpayer with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less. If you earn above that, you can still use the Free File Fillable Forms option, which is less guided but still free.
Step-by-Step: Filing with IRS Free File
Go to the official IRS Free File page
Navigate to irs.gov/freefile — always use this exact URL. Do not use search engine results that may link to paid services. Click “Use Free Guided Tax Software.”
Browse and choose a Free File provider
The IRS partners with several tax software companies. Use the “Help Me Choose” tool or browse by income, age, and state. Popular options include TaxAct, FreeTaxUSA, and 1040Now.
Create an account with your chosen provider
You will be redirected to the provider’s website. Create a new account with your email address and a strong password. Do not use the same password as your email or bank.
Enter your personal information
Input your full legal name, SSN, date of birth, and current address exactly as they appear on your Social Security card. Errors here will delay your refund.
Enter your income from your W-2 or 1099
Input the amounts from each box of your W-2 form. If you have multiple jobs, you will enter each W-2 separately. The software calculates your total income automatically.
Review, sign electronically, and submit
Review your return carefully. Sign using your Prior Year AGI as your PIN. Submit — you will receive a confirmation email within minutes. Save the confirmation number.
How to Track Your Refund
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool at irs.gov/refunds. You need your SSN, filing status, and expected refund amount. E-filed returns with direct deposit are typically processed within 21 days.
Common Errors and How to Fix Them
- SSN mismatch: Check that your SSN matches exactly what is on your Social Security card.
- Bank account error: Double-check your routing number (9 digits) and account number before submitting.
- Wrong filing status: If you are unmarried but support children, you may qualify for “Head of Household” — a lower tax rate than “Single.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — federal filing is completely free if your AGI is $84,000 or less. Some providers charge for state returns, so check before choosing a provider.
The standard deadline is April 15 each year. If April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day. You can request a 6-month extension, but any tax owed is still due by April 15.
Most F-1 and J-1 students are nonresident aliens and must file Form 1040-NR, which is NOT covered by IRS Free File. Use Sprintax or glacier tax software instead.
This guide is part of our USA guides hub. You may also find our guides on setting up an IRS online account and tracking your refund helpful.