The IRS recently announced that its Direct File online tax filing service will not be available for the next filing season, effectively ending the short-lived government-run option for free e-filing. If you used Direct File this year or were planning to, don’t panic — there are several established, secure alternatives that let most Americans file for free or at very low cost.
Below is a practical, step-by-step guide to the best replacements — who qualifies, what to expect, and how to pick the fastest, cheapest, and safest path to file your return.
Quick overview : the safest first steps
1 : Don’t wait until mid-April — start gathering documents now (W-2s, 1099s, Social Security numbers, last year’s return).
2 : Decide whether you need help. If your return is simple (W-2, standard deduction, a child tax credit), you can often file yourself free. If you have business income, rental property, or itemized deductions, consider low-cost software or a VITA site.
3 : Avoid third-party links when looking for IRS programs. Go to IRS.gov for official programs like Free File and VITA .
Free (or truly free) options
1) IRS Free File (partnered software or Free File Fillable Forms) — official, safe, and free for many
The IRS Free File program connects eligible taxpayers to participating tax software providers that offer free federal filing. If you meet the eligibility requirements on the IRS Free File page, the software helps you prepare and e-file for free — sometimes including state returns. If you don’t qualify for partner software, Free File Fillable Forms is the IRS’s electronic 1040 option for people comfortable filling forms themselves. Always start at IRS.gov to access these services so you aren’t misdirected.
IRS
Who it’s best for : Most taxpayers who meet income/eligibility limits set by partner providers; DIY filers comfortable with online forms.
Tip: Use Free File only from the IRS Free File landing page to avoid landing on commercial pages that look free but add fees.
2) Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax) — truly free for many filers
Several reviewers and publications list Cash App Taxes as the most generous free option, offering federal and state filing at no charge for a wide range of tax situations. It supports many schedules and credits without upsells. If you want an easy, mobile-friendly, no-cost route, Cash App Taxes is worth checking.
Who it’s best for : Filers who want a full featured, no-cost solution with an app-first experience.
3) Free File Fillable Forms — the IRS’s raw electronic forms
If your return is straightforward and you’re comfortable entering numbers into tax forms, the Free File Fillable Forms option remains available on IRS.gov. It’s free to use year-round but offers no hand-holding.
Who it’s best for : Tech-savvy filers or those familiar with tax forms who don’t need guidance.
4) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
VITA (and TCE) provides free tax preparation by IRS-trained volunteers at community sites and often now virtually as well. VITA serves low-to-moderate income taxpayers, people with disabilities, and limited English speakers; many sites accept filers up to specific income limits that vary by program year. The IRS also funds VITA grants across local partners. Find a VITA site through IRS resources.
Who it’s best for : Low-to-moderate income households, seniors, people who prefer in-person help.
Low-cost but reliable commercial software (when free options don’t fit)
If your tax situation is more complex or you want step-by-step interview help, many reputable commercial tax programs are inexpensive — and some offer free tiers that cover common situations:
TurboTax — well-known, robust interview style; free tier for simple returns but charges for advanced forms.
H&R Block — offers online and in-person assistance; free tier for basic returns; paid plans for more complex filings.
TaxAct / FreeTaxUSA / TaxSlayer — cheaper alternatives with solid features; often used by filers who need more forms but want lower fees.
How to choose : Compare the forms and credits you need (schedule C, rental income, investments). Look at total cost — some companies advertise free filing but charge for state returns or essential forms.
Practical comparison : which to use when
- You want zero cost, low complexity : Start at IRS Free File → Cash App Taxes → Free File Fillable Forms.
- You need in-person help or have limited English : Find a VITA or TCE site.
- You have a side business, rental property or complex credits : Use a low-cost commercial provider (TaxAct, FreeTaxUSA) or a paid tier at TurboTax/H&R Block if you prefer hand-holding.
Safety, privacy, and avoiding traps
- Always start on official sites (IRS.gov for Free File, VITA locator). Third-party pages can mimic free offers but add fees or suggest paid upgrades.
- Skip “refund advance” bank products unless you read terms carefully — they may reduce your refund in exchange for early access. The IRS Free File rules prohibit bank products being tied to free federal filing.
- Watch for upsells inside tax software: many free tiers push upgrades for specific forms or state filing. Read the fine print before clicking “file.”
Why Direct File ended — and what it means for you
The government-run Direct File pilot was intended to offer a government-operated free e-file alternative, but officials have said the program will be paused and not available for the next season; the IRS is refocusing on partnerships and established programs while the private sector continues to provide many free options. For taxpayers, the practical takeaway is simple: the easy, truly free choices still exist — you just may need to choose a partner program or VITA site instead of a government portal.
Final checklist before you file
- Gather W-2s, 1099s, Social Security numbers, last year’s return.
- Decide: Free File / Cash App Taxes / VITA / commercial software.
- Start at IRS.gov if you want official, free programs.
- Double-check state filing rules — some free offers cover state, others don’t.
- E-file and choose direct deposit for the fastest refunds.