UPDATED: IR-2025-03: IRS Free File opens Friday: Free tax filing service available to millions on IRS.gov

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Issue Number:    UPDATED: IR-2025-03

Inside This Issue


IRS Free File opens Friday: Free tax filing service available to millions on IRS.gov

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the IRS Free File Guided Tax Software will be available Friday for taxpayers ahead of the official start of tax season later this month.

Starting January 10, the IRS Free File will begin accepting individual tax returns. Millions of taxpayers nationwide can access free software tools offered by trusted IRS Free File partners by visiting IRS.gov.

“The IRS remains committed to its partnership with Free File Inc. to ensure taxpayers have free and secure options for filing their taxes electronically,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Taxpayers have multiple filing choices, including trusted tax professionals, tax software, Free File, Direct File or free preparation services through IRS partners. Over the years, Free File has helped millions of taxpayers, providing a fast and simple way to file their returns. This program continues to be a valuable resource for eligible individuals looking to file their taxes for free through this unique program.”

Entering its 23rd filing season, IRS Free File is just one of many free options available to taxpayers for filing their tax returns, whether online or in person. This service is made possible through a public-private partnership between the IRS and Free File Inc. (formerly the Free File Alliance). As part of this partnership, tax preparation and filing software partners offer their online products to eligible taxpayers for free. To access these free tools, taxpayers must start from the IRS Free File page on IRS.gov.

This year, eight private-sector partners will provide online guided tax software products for taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less in 2024. Additionally, one partner will offer a product in Spanish.

Although the IRS official tax filing season begins later this month, IRS Free File providers will allow taxpayers to prepare and file returns now and hold them until they can be electronically filed on that date. Many other software companies offer a similar option.

Taxpayers with an AGI above $84,000 can use the Free File Fillable Forms (FFFF) starting January 27. These electronic versions of IRS paper forms are ideal for individuals who are comfortable preparing their own taxes using IRS instructions and publications.

Understanding IRS Free File

Each IRS Free File trusted partner establishes its own eligibility criteria based on age, income, state residency and military status.

Taxpayers with an AGI of $84,000 or less in 2024 can find an IRS Free File product; some providers include free state tax return preparation and filing. All partners offer active-duty military personnel with an AGI of $84,000 or less in 2024, free tax preparation and filing using IRS Free File.

Use IRS Free File to claim valuable tax credits if eligible

IRS Free File offers a simple, no-cost way for taxpayers to claim the full amount of tax benefits for which they’re eligible, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit and other valuable credits. The EITC is available to qualified taxpayers with earned income under $66,819. The EITC Assistant, available in English and seven other languages, can help taxpayers determine if they qualify.

The EITC is just one of several refundable tax credits related to family and dependent care that individuals without a filing requirement may still be eligible to claim. Refundable tax credits allow taxpayers to receive a refund even if they owe no tax, or refundable credits can reduce the amount of tax owed, potentially leading to a refund. For more details on the EITC and other tax credits, visit Earned Income Tax Credit.

How to find the right IRS Free File product

Taxpayers are responsible for determining their eligibility for a free federal tax return from the list of trusted partners.

  1. Go to IRS.gov/freefile,
  2. Click on Explore Free Guided Tax Software button. Then select the Find a Trusted Partner tool for help in finding the right product, or
  3. Use the Browse All Trusted Partners tool to review each offer,
  4. Select the desired product, and
  5. Follow the links to the trusted partner’s website to begin their tax return.

No computer? No problem. IRS Free File products support mobile phone access. Taxpayers can do their taxes on their smart phone or tablet.

IRS Free File participants

For 2025, the following trusted partners are participating in IRS Free File:

  • 1040Now
  • Drake (1040.com)
  • ezTaxReturn.com
  • FileYourTaxes.com
  • On-Line Taxes
  • TaxAct
  • TaxHawk (FreeTaxUSA)
  • TaxSlayer

For 2025, ezTaxReturn.com will provide an IRS Free File product in Spanish.

IRS Free File helps taxpayers save money and file their taxes quickly and easily. For more information or to get started on a tax return today, visit IRS Free File: Do your taxes for free.

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IR-2025-03: IRS Free File now open: Free tax filing service available to millions on IRS.gov

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Issue Number:    IR-2025-03

Inside This Issue


IRS Free File now open: Free tax filing service available to millions on IRS.gov

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the IRS Free File Guided Tax Software is now available for taxpayers ahead of the official start of tax season later this month.

Starting January 10, the IRS Free File will begin accepting individual tax returns. Millions of taxpayers nationwide can access free software tools offered by trusted IRS Free File partners by visiting IRS.gov.

“The IRS remains committed to its partnership with Free File Inc. to ensure taxpayers have free and secure options for filing their taxes electronically,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Taxpayers have multiple filing choices, including trusted tax professionals, tax software, Free File, Direct File or free preparation services through IRS partners. Over the years, Free File has helped millions of taxpayers, providing a fast and simple way to file their returns. This program continues to be a valuable resource for eligible individuals looking to file their taxes for free through this unique program.”

Entering its 23rd filing season, IRS Free File is just one of many free options available to taxpayers for filing their tax returns, whether online or in person. This service is made possible through a public-private partnership between the IRS and Free File Inc. (formerly the Free File Alliance). As part of this partnership, tax preparation and filing software partners offer their online products to eligible taxpayers for free. To access these free tools, taxpayers must start from the IRS Free File page on IRS.gov.

This year, eight private-sector partners will provide online guided tax software products for taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less in 2024. Additionally, one partner will offer a product in Spanish.

Although the IRS official tax filing season begins later this month, IRS Free File providers will allow taxpayers to prepare and file returns now and hold them until they can be electronically filed on that date. Many other software companies offer a similar option.

Taxpayers with an AGI above $84,000 can use the Free File Fillable Forms (FFFF) starting January 27. These electronic versions of IRS paper forms are ideal for individuals who are comfortable preparing their own taxes using IRS instructions and publications.

Understanding IRS Free File

Each IRS Free File trusted partner establishes its own eligibility criteria based on age, income, state residency and military status.

Taxpayers with an AGI of $84,000 or less in 2024 can find an IRS Free File product; some providers include free state tax return preparation and filing. All partners offer active-duty military personnel with an AGI of $84,000 or less in 2024, free tax preparation and filing using IRS Free File.

Use IRS Free File to claim valuable tax credits if eligible

IRS Free File offers a simple, no-cost way for taxpayers to claim the full amount of tax benefits for which they’re eligible, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit and other valuable credits. The EITC is available to qualified taxpayers with earned income under $66,819. The EITC Assistant, available in English and seven other languages, can help taxpayers determine if they qualify.

The EITC is just one of several refundable tax credits related to family and dependent care that individuals without a filing requirement may still be eligible to claim. Refundable tax credits allow taxpayers to receive a refund even if they owe no tax, or refundable credits can reduce the amount of tax owed, potentially leading to a refund. For more details on the EITC and other tax credits, visit Earned Income Tax Credit.

How to find the right IRS Free File product

Taxpayers are responsible for determining their eligibility for a free federal tax return from the list of trusted partners.

  1. Go to IRS.gov/freefile,
  2. Click on Explore Free Guided Tax Software button. Then select the Find a Trusted Partner tool for help in finding the right product, or
  3. Use the Browse All Trusted Partners tool to review each offer,
  4. Select the desired product, and
  5. Follow the links to the trusted partner’s website to begin their tax return.

No computer? No problem. IRS Free File products support mobile phone access. Taxpayers can do their taxes on their smart phone or tablet.

IRS Free File participants

For 2025, the following trusted partners are participating in IRS Free File:

  • 1040Now
  • Drake (1040.com)
  • ezTaxReturn.com
  • FileYourTaxes.com
  • On-Line Taxes
  • TaxAct
  • TaxHawk (FreeTaxUSA)
  • TaxSlayer

For 2025, ezTaxReturn.com will provide an IRS Free File product in Spanish.

IRS Free File helps taxpayers save money and file their taxes quickly and easily. For more information or to get started on a tax return today, visit IRS Free File: Do your taxes for free.

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The Social Security Fairness Act of 2023: More Retirement Income for Teachers, Police, Firefighters & Gov. Workers

Guest Article of the Month

January, 2025

The Social Security Fairness Act of 2023, More Retirement Income for Teachers Police Firefighters & Gov Workers

The Social Security Fairness Act of 2023, formally known as H.R. 82, aimed at ending two provisions in the Social Security system that affect public sector employees who have earned pensions from jobs not covered by Social Security. These provisions are the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset, both of which reduce or eliminate Social Security benefits for workers who have worked in both public-sector and private-sector jobs.

The Problem: WEP and GPO

The Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset were originally designed to prevent public sector workers from receiving larger Social Security benefits than they would have been entitled to had they worked in jobs covered by Social Security for their entire careers. However, critics argue that these provisions disproportionately harm workers who have spent a significant portion of their careers in public service, such as teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other state and local government employees.

Read The Details


What is Innocent Spouse Relief?

Tax and Financial News

January, 2025

The word “innocent” in innocent spouse relief can be misleading. It doesn’t imply you’re perfect or blameless – it’s more about whether you knew or should have known about the tax issue. The IRS defines “innocence” in a specific way, and it hinges on the concept of reasonable ignorance. In short, the issue isn’t one of morality; it’s about whether you could have reasonably been unaware of a tax problem.

Innocent spouse relief allows you to avoid being held responsible for tax debts, penalties, and interest stemming from a joint tax filing. In the case that a spouse (or ex-spouse) made an error that led to a tax issue, regardless of intention, you may not have to shoulder the burden. Say your income wasn’t reported, excessive deductions were claimed, or tax fraud was committed. If you meet the IRS criteria, you can request relief by submitting Form 8857.

Read The Details


Tips for Tax Season

Financial Planning

January, 2025

7 Ways to Start 2025 with Fresh Finances

Whether you file your income tax return early or at the last minute, there are ways to simplify the process and reduce what you owe – or even increase your refund – before the deadline.

Filing Simplification Tip

Once you receive your W-2 and/or 1099 tax forms, see what income tax bracket you fall under to determine whether you should itemize expenses or take the standard deduction. Thinking about this step first can save you a lot of time. If you don’t come near the standard deduction amount, you will not be itemizing expenses. And if you are not itemizing expenses, you won’t have to gather all the receipts (e.g., mortgage interest, property tax, state and local income taxes, and sales tax paid in 2024).  

Read The Details


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IR-2025-02: IRS reminder: Final 2024 quarterly estimated tax payment due Jan. 15

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Issue Number:    IR-2025-02

Inside This Issue


IRS reminder: Final 2024 quarterly estimated tax payment due Jan. 15

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service today encouraged taxpayers who paid too little tax in 2024 to make a fourth quarter estimated tax payment on or before Jan. 15, 2025.

Income taxes are pay-as-you-go, meaning taxpayers must pay most of their tax throughout the year in which their income is earned or received. Usually this is done by withholding tax from paychecks or by making quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS (or by a combination of both).

However, taxpayers who pay quarterly sometimes overlook this step, and missing a quarterly payment can result in unexpected penalties and fees when they file their returns in 2025.

Who needs to make a payment?

Taxpayers who earn or receive income that is not subject to tax withholding, such as self-employed people or independent contractors, should pay their taxes quarterly to the IRS.

Taxpayers who owed on their most recent return may find they owe again when they file the following year and should consider making an estimated quarterly payment to avoid a potential tax bill or penalty.

Taxpayers in this situation normally include:

  • Those who itemized in the past but are now taking the standard deduction.
  • Two wage-earner households.
  • Employees with non-wage sources of income such as dividends.
  • Those with complex tax situations.
  • Those who failed to increase their tax withholding.

What gets taxed?

The IRS reminds people that most income is taxable. This includes unemployment income, refund interest and income from the gig economy and digital assets, such as cryptocurrency and non-fungible tokens (NFTs.) When estimating quarterly tax payments, taxpayers should include all forms of earned income, including from part-time work, side jobs or the sale of goods.

Also, various financial transactions, especially late in the year, can have an unexpected tax impact. Examples include year-end and holiday bonuses, stock dividends, capital gain distributions from mutual funds, and stocks, bonds, virtual currency, real estate or other property sold at a profit.

How to make an estimated tax payment

The best way to make a payment is through IRS Online Account. There taxpayers can see their payment history, any pending payments and other useful tax information. Taxpayers can make an estimated tax payment by using IRS Direct Pay, debit or credit card or digital wallet, or the Treasury Department’s Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS).

For information on other payment options, visit Make a payment on IRS.gov. If paying by check, taxpayers should be sure to make the check payable to the “United States Treasury.”

Act now to avoid a penalty

Either payment method – withholding or estimated tax payments – or a combination of the two, can help avoid a surprise tax bill at tax time and the underpayment of estimated tax by individuals penalty that often applies.

If a taxpayer fails to make required quarterly estimated tax payments earlier in the year, making a payment soon to cover these missed payments will usually lessen and may even eliminate any possible penalty.

Use the IRS’ Tax Withholding Estimator tool

The Tax Withholding Estimator, available on IRS.gov, can help people determine if they need to make an estimated tax payment. It also helps taxpayers calculate the correct amount of tax to withhold throughout the year based on their complete set of tax facts and circumstances.

Alternatively, taxpayers can use the worksheet included with estimated tax form 1040-ES, or review Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax, to figure estimated taxes.

Planning ahead

It’s never too early to get ready for the tax-filing season. For more tips and resources, check out Get Ready and Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax pages on IRS.gov.

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Tax Tip 2025-02: Essential tax tips for marriage status changes

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Issue Number:  Tax Tip 2025-02

Essential tax tips for marriage status changes

A taxpayer’s filing status generally depends on their being married or unmarried on the last day of the year – which means that a taxpayer’s marital status as of December 31, 2024, determines their tax filing options for all of 2024.

For filing purposes, the IRS generally considers taxpayers as married if they are separated but not legally separated or divorced at the end of the year. Marriage status can determine filing requirements, standard deductions, eligibility for certain credits and tax. For exact qualifications and exceptions on filing statuses, review Publication 504, Divorced or Separated Individuals.

Here are a few things taxpayers should do if their marital status changed in 2024.

Report a name change

Report any name changes to the Social Security Administration. The name on a person’s tax return must match what’s on file at the SSA. If the name doesn’t match, it could delay any tax refund. To update information, go to the SSA’s website and look for “Change name with Social Security.” Name changes can also be processed by calling the SSA at 800-772-1213 or by visiting a local SSA office. 

Update address

Notify the U.S. Postal Service, any employers and the IRS of an address change. Taxpayers have several options to notify the IRS of an address change.

Check withholding 

A change in marital status may also affect how much tax should be withheld from the taxpayer’s paycheck. To avoid a surprise at tax time, the taxpayer should use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to calculate their withholding and then use that estimate to complete a new Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Certificate, to give to their employer. Taxpayers can also use Form W-4 to tell an employer not to withhold any federal income tax. To qualify for this exempt status, the taxpayer must have had no tax liability for the previous year and must expect to have no tax liability for the current year.

Review filing status

Taxpayers who were newly married in 2024 will want to review their filing status options. They can choose to file their federal income taxes jointly or separately each year, so it’s a good idea to figure the tax both ways to find out which makes the most sense. Taxpayers should remember that if a couple is married as of December 31, the law says they’re married for the whole year for tax purposes.

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