IRS Free File allows more than 100 million people to file taxes at no cost. But only 2% of taxpayers use the service.

Elizabeth Guevara is a personal finance reporter who explains the world of business and economics and how it impacts your finances. She joined Investopedia in 2024. Anchiy / Getty Images The IRS ...

The 2026 tax filing season is in full swing at the IRS. And although doing one’s taxes is a near-universally dreaded task, there is a glimmer of good news: It doesn’t have to be expensive. Direct File ...

The IRS shut down its direct filing program for 2026, but Free File, Fillable Forms, MilTax, and some private tools remain—if you know where to look. Here’s how to navigate the free options still ...

Tax season is officially underway, and the Internal Revenue Service has begun accepting individual federal tax returns for 2026 through its free guided software program, IRS Free File. The IRS opened ...

In 2025, nearly 300,000 Americans used a new electronic system to file their taxes directly with the IRS for free. In 2026, that’s no longer an option. IRS Direct File launched as a pilot program in ...

(NEXSTAR) – In 2025, nearly 300,000 Americans used a new electronic system to file their taxes directly with the IRS for free. In 2026, that’s no longer an option. IRS Direct File launched as a pilot ...

Perhaps the easiest way to request an extension is to submit Form 4868 online.

Only 2% of federal income tax returns were filed through Free File, despite 70% of filers qualifying. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who ...