Tax time can be stressful — and expensive — to complete before the filing deadline of April 18. Luckily, there are many free and low-cost resources available to get the job done without a hefty price tag. Here are some of the cheapest place to get taxes done right now or see how to prep before Tax Day.
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1. How to File Taxes For Cheap With A Simple Tax Situation
Several tax software companies offer free tax filing for people with simple tax returns, including:
- Cash App Taxes
- TurboTax Free Edition
- TaxAct Online Free Edition
- H&R Block Free Online Tax Filing
All of these places let you file free federal and state returns as long as you have a simple tax return. A simple tax return includes W-2 income, claim the standard deduction, Earned Income Tax Credit, and Child Tax Credit. Homeowners, independent contractors, or those with more complex returns will have to pay for a more souped-up version. Women who have gone through some major life changes may need some extra filing help as well.
2. How to File Taxes if You Made $73,000 or Less in 2022
The Free File Alliance is available to taxpayers who have an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $73,000 or less.
If you’re one of the 70% of taxpayers who qualify, then you can file your state and federal taxes for free. Use the FreeFile Online Lookup Tool to see if you’re eligible and to choose between providers. Keep in mind that some states may charge a separate fee for e-filing. However, you can always print out your return and mail it to avoid the fee.
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3. How to File Taxes if You Need In-Person Help
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) provides in-person tax preparation by an IRS-certified volunteer at no charge for those who qualify. Usually, that’s people who make less than $58,000 a year, persons with disabilities, those with limited English, or others who need help. Check out the options available in your state with the Free Tax Prep Help locator to see if you’re eligiblefor the program.
4. How to File Taxes With A Complicated Return
TaxSlayer has a free basic edition for those who have simple returns. But you can also try their other products, ranging from $29.95 to $59.95. TaxSlayer is one of the cheapest places to get taxes done if you have a more complex situation (for instance, you own stock, claim rental property, or you’re self-employed). During any point in the process, you can search TaxSlayer’s “knowledge base” to find questions and answers on all tax topics.
5. How to File Taxes if You’re In the Military
MilTax is a free tax prep and e-filing service designed specifically to address military-related tax issues, such as deployments, combat and training pay, housing and rentals and multistate filing. It comes from the U.S. Department of Defense’s MilitaryOneSource network, which also provides phone, online live chat and face-to-face tax help.
READ MORE: What To Do If You Can’t Pay Your Tax Bill
Editor’s note: This post has been updated for the 2022 tax filing season.
