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Tax preparation software

Tax software often advertises free filing, but many people end up paying once they add a common form, a state return or an add-on like audit support. Before you pay, check the free options the IRS lists. These include Free File for people under an income limit, free fillable forms, and free in-person help through volunteer programs.

Common problems to watch for

  • "Free" versions that charge as soon as you add a common form
  • State returns charged separately after the federal return is done
  • Add-ons like audit defense offered at the final checkout screen
  • Paying for software with your refund, which can add a fee
  • Pushing a paid upgrade when you may qualify for IRS Free File

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Free and low-cost alternatives

IRS Free FileGuided tax software offered free through the IRS website for people with income under a limit the IRS sets each year. Start from IRS.gov to reach the right offers.
Free File Fillable FormsFree electronic versions of IRS forms with no income limit. There's no step-by-step guidance, so it suits people comfortable doing their own forms.
VITA free tax helpIRS-certified volunteers prepare basic returns free for people who generally meet an income limit, people with disabilities and limited English speakers.
TCE free tax helpTax Counseling for the Elderly offers free help that gives priority to people aged 60 and older, with focus on pensions and retirement questions.

Availability depends on your device and model. AblePro has no relationship with any company named here.

What fair pricing looks like

Many people with simple returns can file free through IRS-listed options. Paying for software makes more sense for complex returns, as long as all fees are shown up front.

Before you pay

  • Check IRS.gov for Free File and whether you qualify
  • Ask whether your state return costs extra
  • Look for a free VITA or TCE site near you
  • Skip add-ons you don't understand at checkout
  • Avoid paying fees out of your refund if you can pay directly

How to cancel

  1. If you bought an annual software plan, sign in and turn off automatic renewal.
  2. If you paid through an app store, cancel in the App Store or Google Play subscription settings.
  3. Download and save a copy of your filed return before closing any account.
  4. If charged for an add-on you didn't want, contact the company and ask for a refund.

Step-by-step cancel guide for iPhone, Android and PayPal →

Common questions

How do I know if I qualify for IRS Free File?

The IRS sets an income limit each year and each partner company may have its own age or state rules. Go to IRS.gov and use the Free File page to see your options. Starting there matters, because a company's own "free" version may have different rules.

What are VITA and TCE?

They are free, in-person tax preparation programs listed by the IRS. VITA generally serves people under an income limit, people with disabilities and limited English speakers. TCE gives priority to people 60 and older and focuses on pension and retirement questions. You can find sites through IRS.gov.

Why did my free filing suddenly cost money?

Some free versions only cover very simple returns. Adding certain forms, a state return or an extra service can move you into a paid version. If that happens, stop and check IRS Free File or a VITA or TCE site before paying.

General consumer information, not legal or financial advice. Reports reflect the experiences and opinions of their writers, not AblePro, Inc. We check reports against our posting rules but do not verify them.