FAQ's

Questions & Answers

About IRS Free File Partnership with Online Tax Preparation Companies

The IRS Free File program is a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a coalition of leading tax preparation software companies. IRS Free File partners are online tax preparation companies that offer what is called the “IRS Free File” program, which provides free electronic tax preparation and filing of federal tax returns at no cost to qualifying taxpayers (some may also offer free state returns). The IRS Free File program PPP is not a traditional contractual arrangement; this partnership represents a balance of joint responsibility and collaboration that serves the interests of taxpayers and the Federal government. The online tax preparation software partners are part  which coordinates with the IRS to provide free electronic federal tax preparation and filing to you. This non-profit, public-private partnership is dedicated to helping millions of people prepare and file their federal taxes online for free.

  1. You must begin your filing option at IRS.gov. Going directly to a company’s website will result in not receiving the benefits offered here.
  2. Choose an IRS Free File option, guided tax preparation or Free File Fillable Forms.
  3. You will be directed to the IRS partner’s website to create a new account or if you are a previous user, log in to an existing account.
  4. Prepare and e-file your federal tax return.
  5. Receive an email when the IRS has accepted your return.

ITR return forms are attachment-less forms and, hence, the taxpayer is not required to attach any document (like proof of investment, TDS certificates, etc.) along with the return of income (whether filed manually or filed electronically). However, these documents should be retained by the taxpayer and should be produced before the tax authorities when demanded in situations like assessment, inquiry, etc.

E-filing of income tax returns is mandatory if your income is above the basic exemption limit. ITR filing becomes a must even if your income is below the basic exemption limit if the below-mentioned conditions.