Tech »  Topic »  How to file your taxes for free in 2026 - 4 ways to do it (despite Direct File's demise)

How to file your taxes for free in 2026 - 4 ways to do it (despite Direct File's demise)

3 hours ago   zdnet.com

The IRS's Direct File Service is no more, but most taxpayers can use one of these free options to prepare their 2025 returns - even if you itemize deductions.

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ZDNET's key takeaways

  • The IRS has removed its free Direct File option for taxes.
  • Most taxpayers can use the official Free File program.
  • There are several other ways to file taxes for no charge.

Tax filing season officially begins on Monday, January 26. If you missed the news last year, the IRS has ended its Direct File Service. My home state joined the program in 2025, and while it wasn't the only free option for filing taxes, I can attest it was absolutely the easiest -- especially if your tax situation goes beyond basic W-2 forms. (I was surprised to learn that ...


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