Free File, Free File Fillable Forms, and Direct File (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between free file and free file fillable forms? ›

It is an alternative to Free File Software, although both are free. Free File Fillable Forms is operated by a private organization, the Free File Alliance and not the IRS. Though IRS links to it, they do not endorse it or any product. Free File Fillable Forms is an electronic version of IRS paper forms.

No matter your income level, you can use Free File Fillable Forms for your federal tax return. These are identical to IRS paper forms, so this option is like the old “pencil and calculator” method of filing. However, the fillable forms don't come with any additional guidance.

Direct File has partnered with states that have state filing requirements for seamless integration to file state returns for free. IRS Free File is a public-private partnership between the IRS and tax preparation software companies. Free File is available in all 50 states.

Once at the Free File Fillable Forms Landing Page, find and select “Start Free File Fillable Forms.” Select “Continue” on the next page and the Sign On screen appears. You are considered a “New User” if you have not created an account for the current tax year. Select “Create Your Account.” a safe place.

Security is a top priority at FreeTaxUSA. Information entered on our website is encrypted and transmitted securely using SSL encryption.

For the 2024 tax-filing season, Direct File had income restrictions for eligibility. If you filed as single or head of household, you could not have income greater than $200,000 to use Direct File, or $160,200 if you earned income from multiple employers in 2023.

Direct File has tremendous potential to make tax filing less expensive, faster, and easier for millions of Americans. By breaking down barriers to filing, it can also help more low- and moderate-income families get tax credits they're eligible for, like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.

Social Security tax FAQs

Social Security income can be taxable no matter how old you are. It all depends on whether your total combined income exceeds a certain level set for your filing status. You may have heard that Social Security income is not taxed after age 70; this is false.

What are the limitations of the IRS free file? ›

IRS Free File helps millions of taxpayers file their federal and state tax returns for free every year. The IRS Free File adjusted gross income (AGI) limit for tax year 2023 is $79,000 for families and individuals.

In addition, some Forms 1040, 1040-A, 1040-EZ, and 1041 cannot be e-filed if they have attached forms, schedules, or documents that IRS does not accept electronically.

To convert a PDF to fillable online, upload your document to pdfFiller. pdfFiller online editor instantly converts any PDF document to a fillable format online. You can fill your PDF with our various tools and features. To fill the form with text, choose the 'Text' button and start typing.

Fillable PDF forms are documents that allow users to enter and edit data in specific fields, such as text boxes, checkboxes, or drop-down menus. They are often used for surveys, applications, invoices, contracts, and other forms that require user input.

Free File makes filing an extension easier

Taxpayers must estimate their tax liability and file by the deadline to receive the extension. Free File also is one of the options available to help taxpayers file their taxes.