TAX season is heading for the finish line, and there are still several ways Americans can submit their returns.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has a filing deadline set for April 15, which is now nearly a month away.
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Some third-party services are nice to use but often charge fees.
That’s why, as time runs out, the IRS has advised taxpayers to take advantage of a few ways to file for free if possible, per a news release.
One of the newest and most highlighted options by the agency is Direct File, which is available to residents in 25 states after a successful pilot program.
It’s an online service that allows them to file taxes straight through the IRS on their phone, laptop, tablet, or computer.
There are easy-to-use step-by-step questions that help those who use Direct File prepare their returns accurately and efficiently.
They can then complete the federal return and seamlessly move over to the state return, all digitally and instantaneously.
Those claiming the following credits and deductions can also use Direct File without issue:
- Credit for the Elderly and Disabled
- Child and Dependent Care Credit
- Premium Tax Credit
- Retirement Savings Contribution Credits
- Health Savings Accounts Deductions
IRS IS THE WAY
Many taxpayers can also use IRS Free File.
IRS Free File is available on the agency’s website and offers “tax preparation software from eight companies in the public-private partnership with the IRS,” per the release.
Basically, the companies lend their tax preparation software to help qualifying Americans file for free.
Eligible candidates for IRS Free File must’ve had an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $84,000 or less in 2024.
More information can be found on the IRS Free File page on the IRS website.
There are at least two other free filing options to watch out for as well, especially if you’re in the military or a senior citizen.
2025 Tax Season
Tax season started on January 27 and folks must have theirs completed filed on April 15.
Those who fail to file by that time may face penalties.
However, taxpayers who need more time may file for an extension – this gives them until October 15.
The way to do this is by filling out Form 4868, the Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
This can be done by mail, online with an IRS e-filing partner, or through a tax professional.
While there’s no set schedule, the IRS revealed that taxpayers may receive refunds within 21 days of filing.
Just be sure to avoid making mistakes on any forms as that could tack on extra time.
Those filing through mail will likely get their returns within a month or could even face delays as the IRS processes millions.
As of January 31, the average refund amount totaled $1,928, per the IRS.
This is compared to the $1,395 for the same period in 2024.
The average direct deposit refund for 2025 was even higher, the IRS said, at $2,069.
To check the status of your refund, The IRS has an online tool called Where’s My Refund?
This works within 24 hours of e-filing and generally within four weeks of filing a paper return.
MILITAX AND VOLUNTEERS
First is MiliTax, a program from the Department of Defense that offers free tax return preparation and electronic filing software to current military members and select veterans.
There’s no income limit to use it, and up to three state income tax returns can also be filed.
For seniors, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Tax Counseling for the Elderly is a great free option.
Certified volunteers picked by the IRS are located in communities nationwide to offer tax help at no cost for the elderly, disabled, and those who speak little English.
MORE WAYS
Additionally, it’s important to remember that there are some third-party services, including TurboTax, H&R Block, and even Cash App that offer ways Americans can file their taxes at no cost.
For TurboTax, there are exceptions, as those who have business or self-employment income, income from rental properties, income from stock sales, or unemployment income will have to pay.
H&R Block is similar but offers more leeway, but Cash App’s free filing option allows even those who are self-employed or own a small business to use it without paying extra.
At least eight million Americans have already filed and gotten refunds this year, and there are some important tips that experts told The U.S. Sun about avoiding refund delays.
Refunds so far have also been 32% lower than last year.
