If you’re wondering how do I get TurboTax free, the answer depends on your income, filing status, and the tax forms you need. TurboTax offers free filing for those who meet certain criteria, making it an accessible option for many taxpayers. Millions of Americans have filed state and federal taxes for free using the TurboTax Free Edition. This option is specifically designed for taxpayers with simple tax returns.
They offer many features that can save time while maximizing your tax refund. Their software is updated with the latest advancements in technology and tax laws. Users can rely on their network of tax experts to provide support through video or live chat. The TurboTax Free Edition is for any filer who has a simple tax return. There is no restriction on the filing date because it is free at all times.
- Features like document import and deduction-finding tools can help maximize your refund, but it’s important to consider whether you actually need the higher-tier upgrades or expert help.
- Filing with TurboTax can be free if you have a simple 1040 tax return with no special situations and do not opt for any add-ons, or if you take advantage of its limited-time app offer.
- This can save time and reduce errors, especially for users with multiple income sources — though not all financial institutions are supported.
- Don’t worry about paying taxes on the entire amount reported on Form 1099-K.
If you have a simple Form 1040 return only, you could be eligible to file for $0.
The base price for the deluxe level of TurboTax Live Assisted is $129 and $209 for the premium level. Don’t worry about paying taxes on the entire amount reported on Form 1099-K. You can claim your expenses directly related to your business, lowering your income reported on Form 1099-K.
So, if your tax finances lean toward the uncomplicated side, you might just get away with using TurboTax for free. A simple Form 1040 return is one that’s filed using IRS Form 1040 only (no forms or schedules except as needed to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit or student loan interest). If you have a simple Form 1040 return only as described above, you can file for free yourself with TurboTax Free Edition, or you can file with TurboTax Live Assisted Basic at the listed price. If your return doesn’t qualify for TurboTax Free Edition, we have other paid options to file using TurboTax.
The information that you can enter in Free Edition is pretty limited now. Thanks to the new tax laws that began for 2018 returns, there are no more simple Form 1040EZ or 1040A’s. Everything goes on a Form 1040 that has three extra “schedules” with it, and if you need any of those schedules, you are not able to use the Free Edition. Using the standard deduction instead of itemizing does NOT mean you will not need any of those schedules.
However, some states offer free filing options, so it’s worth checking local requirements before paying for the add-on. For those seeking additional help, TurboTax Live connects users with tax experts for real-time assistance. This service is ideal for complex returns but comes at an added cost, which may not be worthwhile for simpler filings. The IRS website lists almost a dozen different tax-filing software programs that may allow you to file your federal and state tax returns for free if your adjusted gross income is at or below a certain level. Big-name participants include TurboTax and H&R Block, as well as several less prominent brands. For example, TurboTax Free Edition, TurboTax Live Basic, and TurboTax Live Full Service Basic are all free right now — but only if your return is simple.
The IRS Free File program allows taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less to file without cost. However, individual tax software providers may have their income limits for free services. You could qualify if you earn under the set amount and don’t have complex tax situations. It’s always a good idea to check the specific income requirements before filing to see if you’re eligible for a free version.
While active-duty and reserve military members may be eligible to file their federal and state tax returns for free. The straightforward interface with simplicity allows taxpayers to prepare their tax returns quickly. Here is everything you need to know about the filing requirements in 2025 for TurboTax. If your adjusted gross income is $73,000 or less, you’re eligible for free guided tax prep from options like Tax Slayer, FileYourTaxes.com and TaxAct. If your income exceeds that, you qualify for free fillable forms (but you’ll have to actually file them on your own). If you have not paid for the online edition you are using, have not filed your tax return or registered the Free edition, then you can clear your return and start over with a lower priced edition.
Other ways to file your taxes for free in 2025
Most taxpayers take this route, making them strong candidates for free tax filing. Free filing could be the perfect fit if you don’t plan to deduct expenses like mortgage interest, medical bills, or state taxes. On the other hand, if you need to itemize your deductions, you may have to upgrade to a paid version to access additional tax forms. With over 10 million taxpayers using TurboTax Free to file their federal and state income tax returns every year, it’s the most popular way to e-file taxes. Seniors may qualify for free filing with TurboTax if they have a simple tax return (Form 1040 with W-2, Social Security income, or standard deduction).
- We also offer full audit representation for an additional fee with TurboTax Audit Defense.
- They can also learn more about tax deductions, investments, tax guidelines for the self-employed, and other factors that may impact their overall finances.
- For example, TurboTax Free Edition, TurboTax Live Basic, and TurboTax Live Full Service Basic are all free right now — but only if your return is simple.
- The free version is designed for simple tax returns and may not cover more complex situations like itemized deductions or certain types of income.
Additionally, students who are enlisted active-duty or reserve military members may qualify for free filing. TurboTax takes much of the complexity out of tax preparation by offering a guided, user-friendly experience that supports a wide range of tax situations. TurboTax offers several features designed to simplify tax preparation and help users get the biggest possible refund.
One standout feature I really like is the ability to import W-2s, 1099s and investment income reports directly from financial institutions. The bottom line for filing taxes electronically through TurboTax Free is your tax return must be simple. As TurboTax won’t provide you with certain tax forms like Schedule A, which you use to itemize deductions, you must pay for a subscription.
TurboTax features that help maximize your tax refund
Her professional background spans both commercial and residential real estate, enriching her writing with firsthand industry insights. She is passionate about making complex real estate and financial topics accessible for all readers. Dedicated to transparency and clarity, her ultimate goal is to help her audience make informed and confident decisions in their financial pursuits.
Why pay for state? Simple tax returns are 100% free
Much like the dilemma of owning unsellable houses, navigating TurboTax might require some extra effort and planning. Yes, TurboTax Free Edition is a tax filing product that is available year-round on the web or app for free taxes. ~37% of taxpayers qualify to file for free with TurboTax Free Edition.
Filers who qualify for TurboTax Free Edition
It is possible to file for free through TurboTax — but there are a slew of requirements you must meet. TurboTax Free Edition is available year-round; you can also file state taxes this way. It’s still available even though the 2024 tax deadline has passed.
If You Take the Standard Deduction
Free File is a partnership between the government and several tax turbotax free requirements prep services that allows people to draw up and, in some cases, submit their federal tax returns online for free. Though Free File is notoriously underutilized, it’s typically stacked with name-brand offers from recognizable companies — TurboTax included. The TurboTax Free Edition allows users to import W-2 forms and file straightforward federal tax returns without incurring any charges. However, if you need to itemize deductions or if your tax situation involves income from side gigs, such as freelancing, you’ll need an upgrade.
TurboTax is one of the most popular tax filing options, known for its user-friendly interface, step-by-step guidance and features designed to help filers maximize refunds while minimizing errors. Relatively speaking, filing taxes through TurboTax or another tax preparation service electronically results in a higher refund in most cases. That’s, of course, assuming that you don’t know the tax code from start to finish. If you know everything that you’ll claim on your return, paper filing might be a better option as it’s completely free.