What Are Free File Fillable Tax Forms?

Every year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers taxpayers a way to file their federal returns online for free—no bells, whistles, or upsells. These are called Free File Fillable Forms, and they’re designed for𒁃 confident 💜filers who already know which forms they need and how to fill them out.

Unlike popular tax software, they don’t offer guided help, but🔯 they’re completely free to use and cover most commo🙈n IRS forms. They’re ideal if you have a straightforward return and want to avoid paying to file.

Understanding Free File Fillable Tax Forms

The IRS first released the Free File fillable fax forms in 2009 as a way of transitioning to a digital filing process. These electro෴nic 💛forms have since minimized the number of errors in income tax filing.

If you have a 2024 individual or family income of $84,000 or less, you can use select professional tax software programs that have partnered with the IRS to provide their services free through Free File.

Of course, all ta✱xpayers are welcome to download the tax forms available at IRS.gov for free. Only the free tax preparation software is limited by income.

If you're eligible, you may 🌌file your federal tax returns 🍌for free directly with the IRS through the Direct File program. However, you'll need to submit your state tax returns separately. Refer to the to see if you qualify.

Keep in mind, Direct File's future remains uncertain. The program could be cut in 2026 depending on federal budget decisions.

If you lived and worked in one of the following states in 2024, this service is available to you:

The IRS uses these tax forms to speed up the process of receiving income tax refunds. You can access the Free F⛎ile fillable tax forms on t⛄he IRS website.

Once you download the forms, you can fill them out by entering your data directly on a computer, phone, or tablet without printing out the forms. From there, you sign the form on the computer and then file the forms electronically with the IRS. Once completed, the return is sent to the agency using the latest encryption technology.

Unlike many commercial tax preparation software packages that systematically check your information to ensure you take every 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:deduction, the IRS Free File fillable forms do not provide any assistance in filing and do not include state tax forms. You can choose an IRS partner site for filing assistance, and state tax forms can be included but may incur a fee.

Getting Started With Free File

To file your taxes digitally using the free fillable tax forms, you need certain information in advance. To complete the forms properly, you need the adjusted gross income (AGI) listed on your previous year's tax return, your Social Security number (SSN), your spouse's, and any dependents ☂if you have any.

You also need access to documents concerning your yearly income, like your W-2, which states your annual wages, receipts, and documentation of any Social Security benefits or unemployment ౠcompensation. If you have a small business or any income from rental, real estate, royalties, partnerships, S corporations, or trusts, make sure you have the official numbers and proper documentation handy.

To file using the Free File Fillable tax form, you will also need either your personal identification number and five-digit PIN, or your previous year's AGI. If you can't find this information, the IRS offers a tool online to retrieve your AGI.

How Will I Use This in Real Life?

If you’re someone who doesn’t want to pay to file your taxes and you have a straightforward return, Free File Fillable Forms could save you money. Instead of paying for tax pre🃏p software or a professional, you can fill out the forms yourself online. You just need to be confident in what you’re doing because there’s no help button.

If you prefer more guidance but still want to avoid fees, check whether you qualify for IRS Free File partner software. And if you live in a Direct File pilot state, you might be able to skip third-party tools altogether—but keep an eye on updates, as the program’s future funding is uncertain.

The Bottom Line

Filing electronically ensures that the IRS gets your annual federal tax return in a timely manner. Doing so also helps speed up the processing time if you expect a refund. Just remember to complete your forms by the tax deadline (April 15 or the following business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday) so it isn't considered late—especially if you owe taxes.