The Internal Revenue Service won’t start accepting tax returns until later in January but some options will allow people to get a head start on their taxes.

Starting today, almost all tax filers can submit returns electronically using IRS Free File on IRS. Gov. The returns will be processed once tax season officially opens on Jan. 27.

READ MORE: IRS sets date it will start accepting tax returns; How long will it take to get your refund?

“Taxpayers have multiple filing choices, including trusted tax professionals, tax software, Free File, Direct File or free preparation services through IRS partners,” IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said. “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.”

Free File offers tax preparation software from eight companies and gives free online access to preparation and filing software. To be eligible, filers must have Adjusted Gross Income of $84,000 or less in 2024. Taxpayers with an AGI above $84,000 can use the Free File Fillable Forms starting Jan. 27.

How to find the right IRS Free File product

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

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.

Other ways to file for free

In addition to Free File and Direct File, there are other ways to file for free:

• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Tax Counseling for the Elderly – Taxpayers can find organizations in their community with IRS certified volunteers that provide free tax help for eligible taxpayers including working families, the elderly, the disabled and people who speak limited English.
• MilTax. A Department of Defense program, MilTax generally offers free return preparation and electronic filing software for federal income tax returns and up to three state income tax returns for all military members, and some veterans, with no income limit.