How to File Your Taxes Free with FreeTaxUSA

FreeTaxUSA is one of the best-kept secrets in personal finance. Unlike TurboTax or H&R Block Online — which are free only for simple returns and charge extra for common situations like investment income, itemized deductions, or self-employment — FreeTaxUSA offers completely free federal filing with no income limit and no restriction on tax forms. The only charge is approximately $14.99 to file a state return.

FreeTaxUSA is an IRS-authorized e-file provider, meaning the IRS officially accepts returns filed through their service. The company has been operating since 2001 and has filed tens of millions of returns.

To get started, go to freetaxusa.com in any browser. Click "Create a Free Account" and enter your email address and a password. You can also use your Google or Facebook account to sign in if you prefer.

The filing process works through a question-and-answer interview format, similar to TurboTax. The software asks you questions and fills in the tax forms based on your answers — you never see the raw IRS forms unless you want to. The navigation is organized by category: Personal Info, Income, Deductions, Credits, Health Insurance, and State.

Before starting, gather your tax documents: W-2 forms from each employer, 1099 forms for retirement income, Social Security benefits, investment sales, or freelance income, mortgage interest statements (Form 1098) if you own a home, property tax records if you itemize deductions, and last year's tax return for reference.

FreeTaxUSA lets you import W-2 data from many employers automatically, which saves time and reduces the chance of typos. Look for an "Import W-2" option after you click into the income section.

Once you have completed all sections, the software shows a summary of your return with your refund amount or amount owed. Review every section carefully before submitting. Pay particular attention to your Social Security number, direct deposit account information, and your prior-year AGI (which the IRS uses to verify your identity on e-filed returns — it is on line 11 of last year's Form 1040).

After e-filing, the IRS typically accepts the return within 24 to 48 hours. FreeTaxUSA sends an email confirming acceptance. From there, track your refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool at irs.gov/refunds.

Download and save a PDF copy of your completed return from FreeTaxUSA — keep it with your financial records. The IRS recommends keeping tax returns for at least three years.