Yes, you heard me. The IRS has a link that provides free tax software to those who have an adjusted gross income of $57,000 or less. The IRS explains the program:
Everyone can prepare and e-file their federal tax returns for free using the
IRS Free File Program. Free File is offered through a public-private
partnership between the Internal Revenue Service and tax software companies.
Free File can help you do your taxes fast; it’s safe and it doesn’t cost
anything.
Nearly 100 million Americans – that’s 70 percent of the nation’s taxpayers –
can use the free brand-name software and secure e-filing offered by
private-sector companies. Software products also are available in Spanish. Each
company sets its eligibility requirements, generally based on income, age or
state residency. However, if your adjusted gross income was $57,000 or less in
2011, you will find at least one tax software product to use.
Here’s how it works: You must access Free File through the IRS website. At www.irs.gov/freefile, there’s an online tool which allows you to give a little information about yourself then guides you to the software for which you are eligible. Or, you
can review a complete list of companies and their offerings and make a
selection.
Try it and see if you can save tax preparation fees. Of course, if you have a business, or unusual tax situations, you may want to hire a CPA. Always discuss your situation with your tax advisor before making any decisions.
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IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any tax advice contained in this e-mail (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and may not be used, for the purpose of (a) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or state tax authority, or (b) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein.