WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service is urging taxpayers who have yet to file their 2025 federal tax returns to take advantage of free tools available at IRS.gov, highlighting electronic filing as the fastest and most secure option.

Through the IRS Free File program — a partnership between the agency and private tax software providers — eligible taxpayers can prepare and submit their returns at no cost. Individuals with adjusted gross incomes of $89,000 or less qualify for guided tax software that walks users through the filing process with step-by-step prompts and automatic calculations. Some options also include free state tax filing.

Taxpayers must access Free File directly through IRS.gov to receive these benefits.

For those who prefer a do-it-yourself approach, Free File Fillable Forms remain available to all taxpayers regardless of income, offering electronic versions of IRS paper forms without guided assistance.

Free help with tax preparation:

• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Tax Counseling for the Elderly: IRS-certified volunteers provide no-cost tax preparation for eligible taxpayers.
• MilTax: Active-duty and reserve military members, including the U.S. Coast Guard, and certain veterans can prepare and e-file federal and up to five state tax returns for free through this Department of Defense program.

Free IRS resources:

• How to File Your Taxes: Step by Step. A guide to completing Form 1040.
• Let Us Help You. A central hub for filing and payment resources.
• One, Big, Beautiful Bill Provisions. Information on tax law changes that may affect refunds or tax liability.
• Where’s My Refund?. Refund status updates for a current-year return are generally available around 24 hours after e-filing, or 6 weeks or more for returns sent by mail.
• Pay Electronically. Secure and fast payment options.

Helpful tips for taxpayers:

• Create an IRS Individual Online Account. Available 24/7 to view tax records, check refund status, and communicate securely with the IRS.
• Use direct deposit for refunds. The IRS encourages direct deposit to receive refunds faster and more securely. The IRS is phasing out paper tax refund checks under the executive order, Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account.
• Open a bank account if needed. Visit the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Locator Tool to find out more. Veterans may explore the Veterans Benefits Banking Program for options. Taxpayers should verify their routing and account numbers before filing.
• Watch out for tax scams and fraud. Learn how to recognize and report tax-related scams.

More information:

• Publication 5274, IRS Free File Fillable Forms User's Guide
• How to use the Find Your Trusted Partner Tool (IRS YouTube video)
• How to create an account to use IRS Free File Fillable Forms (IRS YouTube video)
• Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax