I've used paid tax software for the last few years, but I want to switch to something free for 2025. The problem is I have several years of tax data that I'd like to import so I don't have to re-enter everything.
I'm looking for free tax software with prior year import features. Ideally, I'd like to import my 2023 and 2024 returns so the software has my basic information and can carry forward any carryover items.
Do any of the free tax software options allow importing from other tax software? Or at least have a way to import a PDF of last year's return? I don't mind doing some manual entry, but I'd prefer not to start from scratch.
Importing prior year data is one area where free tax software really lags behind paid options. Most free software expects you to start from scratch each year.
That said, here's what I've found:
1. TurboTax (through IRS Free File) - Can import prior year TurboTax returns if you used TurboTax last year
2. H&R Block (through IRS Free File) - Similar, can import prior H&R Block returns
3. TaxAct (through IRS Free File) - Can import from some other software
4. FreeTaxUSA - Limited import options, mostly manual entry
The catch with the IRS Free File partners is that you need to have used their software last year, or sometimes they can import from competitors. But if you used completely different software or did paper filing, you're probably out of luck.
For PDF import, I haven't found any free software that does this well. Some claim to, but in my testing they either don't work or make you upgrade to a paid version.
My advice: plan on manual entry. Keep a copy of last year's return handy and be prepared to enter key information like your name, address, SSN, and any carryover items.
I switched from paid to free software last year and faced this same problem. Here's what worked for me:
I used FreeTaxUSA, and while they don't have robust import features, they do have a carryover information" section where you can enter things like:
- Capital loss carryovers
- Home office deduction carryovers
- Passive activity loss carryovers
For basic information (name, address, dependents), you just have to enter it manually. It's a bit of a pain the first year, but once you're in the FreeTaxUSA ecosystem, they'll carry it forward for future years.
If you're coming from TurboTax or H&R Block, check if their free versions through IRS Free File can import your prior data. Sometimes they offer this feature even in the free versions if you're going through the IRS portal.
Another option: use the PDF of last year's return as a reference while you manually enter data into the new software. It takes longer, but it ensures everything is entered correctly.
The import features in free tax software are definitely limited. Most assume you're starting fresh or have been using their software for years.
One workaround I've used: create a spreadsheet with all your basic information from prior years. Things like:
- Personal information (names, SSNs, addresses)
- Dependent information
- Prior year AGI (needed for e-filing)
- Carryover amounts from schedules
Then you can just copy from your spreadsheet into the tax software. It's not automatic import, but it's faster than looking everything up in PDFs.
Also, some states offer fillable forms" that pre-populate with your prior year information if you filed with them before. This doesn't help with federal, but it can save time on state returns.
Honestly, the lack of good import features is one of the trade-offs for using free software. Paid software invests more in these convenience features.