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Tax Tip 2026-08, Jan. 29, 2026
The 2026 tax filing season officially kicked off this week, and the IRS is now accepting and processing federal income tax returns for the 2025 tax year. Taxpayers have several options for filing electronically, with some free options available depending on income level.
Free filing options
- IRS Free File offers eligible taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income of $89,000 or less in 2025 access to tax preparation software at no cost. For 2026, there are eight IRS Free File trusted partners.
- Each partner sets its own eligibility requirements, which may include age, income, state residency and military status
- Some partners also offer free state tax return preparation and filing
- IRS Free File Fillable Forms are available to taxpayers who are comfortable preparing and filing their own returns, regardless of income level
- MilTax is a free tax resource, offered through the Department of Defense, for eligible members of the military community. It allows for the electronic filing of a federal tax return and up to three state returns for free
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals
For those who choose to use a tax professional to prepare and file their tax returns, the IRS encourages taxpayers to review tips for choosing a tax preparer and how to recognize red flags when choosing a tax professional.
Faster Refunds
Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive a refund. Most refunds are issued within 21 days for those who file electronically file a complete and accurate return and choose direct deposit. Although, some returns require additional review and may take longer. Taxpayers can check Where’s My Refund? for their personalized refund status.