Where to File Your First Tax Return for Free

Free tax filing is available through the IRS Free File program and community organizations, and you don't need to pay a tax preparation company to file your first return

The IRS Free File program lets you file federal taxes at no cost if your income is below a certain threshold — that threshold changes each year, so check the current limit on IRS.gov. You use tax software provided by participating companies like TurboTax, H&R Block, or TaxAct, but you access it through the IRS Free File site rather than buying it directly. State taxes usually have their own free filing options run by your state's tax authority.

If your income is above the Free File limit or you prefer not to use software, you can file by paper using forms you download from IRS.gov, or you can get help from a volunteer tax preparer through programs like VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly. These are real people who will sit down with you and file your return for free.

Key Takeaways

• IRS Free File is the official free federal tax filing program, but you must access it through IRS.gov — buying the same software elsewhere costs money.
• Your income must fall below the annual Free File threshold, which the IRS publishes each January for that tax year.
• VITA programs offer free in-person tax preparation and are run by nonprofits and community organizations in most counties.
• State tax filing is usually free through your state's tax authority website, separate from federal filing.
• If you file by paper, you mail forms to the IRS address listed in the instructions — there is no online filing option for paper returns.

Understanding the IRS Free File Program

Free File is a partnership between the IRS and tax software companies. You go to IRS.gov/freefile, not to the software company's main website. The site shows you which companies participate and which one matches your situation — some are for simple returns, others handle self-employment or rental income. You create an account with the company you choose, answer questions about your income and deductions, and the software walks you through the filing process.

The software prepares your federal return and usually lets you file it electronically the same day. You receive a confirmation number when the IRS accepts your return. If you owe money, you can pay through the software or wait for a bill. If you're getting a refund, you choose direct deposit or a mailed check.

Free File has an income limit that changes yearly. For the 2024 tax year (filed in 2025), the limit is $79,000 in adjusted gross income. If your income is above that, Free File is not available to you through IRS.gov, though you may still find free or low-cost options through VITA or your state.

Finding and Using VITA for Free In-Person Help

VITA stands for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. These are free tax preparation sites run by nonprofits, libraries, community centers, and government agencies. A trained volunteer prepares your return with you, answers questions, and files it electronically. You bring your documents — W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductions — and the volunteer handles the rest.

To find a VITA site near you, go to IRS.gov and search for "VITA locator," or call 211 and ask for tax preparation services in your area. Sites typically operate during tax season (January through April) and some continue into May. Hours and availability vary by location, so call ahead or check their website before you go. Many sites require an appointment, especially as the filing deadline approaches.

VITA is particularly useful if your return has complications — you're self-employed, you have rental income, you're claiming education credits, or you're unsure what deductions you can take. The volunteer can explain your options and make sure you're not leaving money on the table.

Filing State Taxes for Free

Most states offer free tax filing through their own tax authority websites. Some states use the same Free File software companies as the federal program, so you file both at once. Other states have their own systems. A few states don't have income tax at all, so you only file federal.

To find your state's free filing option, search "[your state] free tax filing" or go to your state's Department of Revenue or Taxation website. The site will direct you to the free software or forms you need. If you used IRS Free File for federal taxes, check whether the same software handles your state return — many do, but not all.

Some states let you file by paper if you prefer. You download the forms from your state's website, fill them out by hand, and mail them to the address listed in the instructions. Paper filing takes longer to process than electronic filing.

What Documents You Need to Gather

Before you start filing, collect all income documents. If you worked for an employer, you'll receive a W-2 by January 31. If you received income from a bank, investment account, or gig work, you'll receive a 1099 form. If you're self-employed, you'll need records of what you earned and what you spent on business expenses.

Gather receipts or records for any deductions you plan to claim — student loan interest statements, mortgage interest statements, charitable donation receipts, medical expense records, or education expense documentation. You don't mail these with your return, but you need them to answer questions in the software or to show a VITA volunteer.

Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status ready. If you're married and filing jointly, you'll need your spouse's information too. If you have dependents, gather their Social Security numbers and birthdates.

Choosing Between Software, VITA, and Paper Filing

Use IRS Free File if your income is below the threshold and you're comfortable working through tax software on your own. The software guides you step-by-step and usually takes 30 minutes to an hour for a straightforward return. You file immediately and get confirmation the same day.

Use VITA if you want someone to walk through it with you, if your return is complicated, or if you're not confident using software. You'll spend an hour or two at an appointment, but you leave knowing your return is filed correctly. VITA is also your option if your income is above the Free File threshold.

File by paper only if you have no internet access and no VITA site is available to you. Paper filing is slower — the IRS takes longer to process it, and if there's an error, the delay in correction is longer too. You mail the forms to an IRS address that depends on your state and filing status; the instructions tell you which address to use.

What Happens After You File

If you file electronically, the IRS usually accepts your return within 24 hours. You receive a confirmation number. If you owe taxes, you can pay immediately through the software or wait for a bill. If you're getting a refund, you can choose direct deposit to your bank account (fastest) or request a mailed check.

The IRS processes refunds in about 21 days if you file electronically and choose direct deposit. If you chose a mailed check, add another week or two for delivery. You can track your refund on IRS.gov using the "Where's My Refund" tool — you'll need your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount.

If you filed by paper, processing takes much longer — typically 4 to 6 weeks or more. You can't track a paper return online, so you won't know the status until the IRS mails you a notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to file taxes if this is my first year working?

Not necessarily. If your income is below a certain threshold (which depends on your age and filing status), you're not required to file. However, if taxes were taken out of your paychecks, you should file to get a refund. The IRS website has a tool to help you figure out whether you need to file.

What if I don't have all my documents by the filing deadline?

You can file for an extension, which gives you until October 15 to file. You request the extension through the software or on paper, but you still owe any taxes by April 15 — the extension only delays filing, not payment. If you're getting a refund, there's no penalty for filing late, so you can wait for missing documents.

Can I file my taxes on my phone?

Most Free File software works on phones and tablets, though the experience is usually easier on a computer. VITA volunteers work with you in person, so that's not a phone option. Paper filing requires printing and mailing, so you'd need a computer or library access for that too.

What if I made a mistake on my return after I filed it?

You can file an amended return using Form 1040-X. You don't need to refile your entire return — you only report the items that changed. You can file an amended return through Free File software or VITA, or by paper. The IRS processes amended returns more slowly than original returns, sometimes taking several months.

Do I need to file federal and state taxes separately?

Yes, they are separate filings. However, many Free File software options let you file both in one session — you answer your questions once, and the software prepares both returns. Some states use different software, so you may need to file state taxes through a different website or by paper.