The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is now ready to start a new tax return season. To this end, it has been working for months not only to have all the tools necessary for taxpayers to carry out this task in the best possible way, but also to enhance the security of each program to prevent fraud against the IRS, but also to ensure that taxpayers are not deceived.
In fact, some of the tools have been in operation for weeks so that taxpayers have had time to thoroughly prepare their tax returns. However, the official season begins tomorrow, Monday, January 27, and will be available until Tuesday, April 15 of this year. It should be remembered that, as usual, despite the fact that this process takes place in 2025, taxpayers must render accounts for the past year, that is, for 2024.
5 free IRS options for filing your tax return
The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is offering different alternatives, all free of charge, to facilitate the process of filing tax returns for this tax return filing campaign that begins tomorrow, Monday, January 27. The aim is, in addition to making the process easier for taxpayers, to ensure that this tax obligation does not cost them money.
In this sense, Mundo Deportivo has selected up to 5 alternatives of useful tools that are also all free of charge. The first option is the so-called Direct File. A program that allows you to file returns directly with the IRS and thus speed up the refund process. However, it is only available in 25 states. As for its advantages, they point out that:
- It is designed for simple returns.
- It is not suitable for self-employment income, business income or itemized deductions.
The second option is the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program. In this case, the tool offers free help to taxpayers aged 60 and over, especially retirees who receive pensions or have retirement-related benefits. To find a center near you, visit the official IRS website, use the AARP Tax-Aide tool or call 888-227-7669. In this case, the advantages are:
- Specific guidance for retirees.
- Simple returns at no cost.
Other free options
The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has three other free tools for filing tax returns. The third option is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. A tool designed for people with low or moderate incomes. This service is backed by a federal grant, which is why there are requirements to use it. These are:
- Income of $67,000 or less.
- People with disabilities.
- Limited English speakers.
MilTax is the fourth free program available from the IRS for filing your tax return. In this case, it is sponsored by the Department of Defense, so it is intended for military service members, veterans and their families. In this case, the advantages are:
- Free federal returns and up to three state returns.
- Specialized advice for specific military service situations.
- 100% accuracy guarantee.
Finally, the fifth tool offered by the IRS is free tax software for people with higher incomes or complex sources of income. Some of the platforms include:
- TaxAct Free.
- H&R Block.
- Tax Slayer.
- TurboTax.
