Tax season is coming up and I'm trying to plan ahead. I've been using the same free tax software for a few years but I'm wondering if there are better options for 2025. I'm looking for something that's truly free for federal filing, not just a trial that makes you pay at the end.
What free tax software 2025 options are people considering? I've heard the IRS free file program has some good partners, but I'm not sure which ones are actually worth using.
My situation is pretty simple - just W2 income, some student loan interest, and standard deduction. But I want to make sure I'm not missing out on any deductions by using basic software.
I've been testing a few options for 2025 already. The IRS free file program is definitely worth checking out if your income is below $79,000. I used TaxAct through the program last year and it was completely free for both federal and state.
One thing to watch out for - some of the free" versions on company websites aren't actually free if you go through their main site instead of the IRS free file portal. Always start at the IRS website to get the truly free versions.
For simple returns like yours, I'd recommend looking at FreeTaxUSA or Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax). Both offer free federal filing regardless of income, though state might cost a bit with FreeTaxUSA.
As a student, I've had good luck with Cash App Taxes. It's completely free for federal and state, no income limits. The interface is pretty straightforward too.
The IRS free file program has specific options for students - some of the partners offer free filing even if you're above the income limit if you're a student or under 25. I think H&R Block and TurboTax both have student programs.
Just make sure you're actually eligible for the free versions. I made the mistake last year of starting on TurboTax's main site instead of through the IRS free file portal, and they tried to charge me $40 at the end.
For 2025, I'm keeping an eye on the IRS direct file program expansion. They piloted it in a few states last year and it might be available more widely this year. That would be truly free with no upsells at all.
If you want to stick with commercial software, FreeTaxUSA has been pretty good about staying free for basic returns. They do charge for state ($15), but their federal is free regardless of complexity as long as you don't need certain specialized forms.
One tip - wait until late January or February to file. Sometimes the early versions of the software have bugs, and by waiting a bit you get more stable software and better support if you have questions.
I've been researching this too. The best free tax software 2025 options seem to be:
1. Cash App Taxes - completely free federal and state
2. FreeTaxUSA - free federal, $15 state
3. IRS Free File Program options - varies by provider
4. IRS Direct File - if available in your state
What's interesting is that some of the IRS free file alliance members have different income limits and restrictions. For example, TaxSlayer offers free filing through IRS Free File if your income is under $45,000, but their regular free version has no income limit.
The key is finding which one works best for your specific situation. I'm planning to try a couple different ones with dummy data to see which interface I like best.
Don't forget about your state's options too! Many states have their own free filing programs that work with certain software. In my state, there's a program that lets you file both federal and state for free if you meet income requirements.
Also, check if your local library or community center offers free tax preparation help. Sometimes they use professional software that you wouldn't have access to otherwise.
For simple returns, I think you'll be fine with any of the major free options. They all handle W2 income, student loan interest, and standard deductions without issues. The differences come in when you have more complex situations.