Understanding how and when to file taxes is something that not many people find easy. This is why the IRS is offering a free tool called IRS Free File, created to help millions of taxpayers prepare and submit their federal tax return without paying for a preparer or paid software.
Yet, many people don’t know how this system works, who can use it, or which the requirements are. If you are a bit lost with this issue, you shouldn’t worry about it because we are here to help you and explain everything. So, let’s get started.
When will the IRS Free File open in 2026?
The IRS has already confirmed the official date they will open the IRS Free File system for the 2026 season: January 25 of 2026. That same day, the IRS will also start accepting and processing federal tax returns for the 2025 tax year. So, from January 26, taxpayers who meet the requirements could:
- Prepare their federal taxes online.
- Send their tax return to the IRS through the internet.
- Do everything completely free, using IRS-approved programs or the free forms on the IRS website.
Who can use the IRS Free File?
This is an official program that allows taxpayers prepare and file their federal tax refund without paying. It’s not a private service, it’s part of the IRS system and it’s designed to ease the process, especially for people and families with moderate income.
The goal of the IRS Free File is to reduce mistakes, simplify the process of filing the tax return and avoid taxpayers to pay for services they don’t need. This is particularly useful for people filing their tax refund on their own.
If you want to use this program, you should know it’s available for individuals and families with an income inside the limit established by the IRS, which is updated every year. If you exceed this limit, you can still use the free fillable forms, although they offer less guidance and are more basic.
Advantages
One of the best advantages of the IRS Free File is that it offers a safe and simple way of managing your tax return without paying anything. The system guides you step by step, which makes the process easier even for those who have never filed their tax returns on their own.
Let’s explain in detail all the advantages of this program:
- Faster processing: electronic returns are usually processed faster than paper ones. This means the IRS can begin reviewing your information sooner.
- Quicker refunds: if you choose direct deposit and file electronically, your refund typically arrives faster than if you send paper documents by mail.
- Secure electronic filing: the tax return is sent directly to the IRS through a safe online system. This reduces mistakes and lowers the risk of fraud compared to mailing paper forms.
Tips to make the most of the program
If you want to use it but don’t know how, here are some tips to be prepared when the system opens on January 26:
- Check your IRS online account: make sure you can access your IRS account or create one if needed. Having it ready avoids problems and delays.
- Review credits and deductions: even if the system guides you, it is important to know which credits you may qualify for, because they can increase your refund.
- Prepare your documents early: gather all your W-2s, 1099s, income proof, deductible expense records, and bank information before the opening date.
How long can you use the IRS Free File?
This will be available during the entire tax season, until the federal filing deadline in April. Even though the system remains available for months, filing early is recommended to avoid delays, avoid system congestion, and receive your refund sooner.
So, by understanding all of this, anyone can approach the 2026 tax season with confidence and clarity.