Not tax advice. Information here is general guidance. Tax laws change. Verify with the IRS or a licensed CPA for your specific situation.
IRS Free File / Direct File review — 2026
★★★★★ Overall score: 5/5
Free federal filing for incomes under $79K via partner network. Direct File available in 25 states.
Monthly: $0.00/mo
Annual (first year): $0.00/year
Annual (renewal): $0.00/year
Money-back: 0 days
Annual (first year): $0.00/year
Annual (renewal): $0.00/year
Money-back: 0 days
Get IRS Free File / Direct File → Read full review →
Protection
| Malware detection rate | 0% |
|---|---|
| False-positive rate | n/a |
| AV-TEST score | n/a |
| Real-time protection | ✓ |
| Ransomware protection | ✗ |
| Firewall | ✗ |
Bundled features
| VPN included | ✗ |
|---|---|
| Password manager | ✗ |
| Parental controls | ✗ |
| Dark web monitoring | ✗ |
| Identity theft protection | ✗ |
| Cloud backup | ✗ |
Compatibility
| Devices covered | Web |
|---|---|
| Platforms | Web |
Our review
IRS Free File and Direct File are the cheapest option for eligible filers. If your AGI is under $79K, you should use this before any paid software. Direct File (the IRS's own product) is expanding state-by-state and is even cleaner than Free File partners.
Pros
- Truly free if AGI under $79K (Free File Alliance partners)
- **IRS Direct File** now available in 25 states (filed directly with IRS, no third party)
- Backed by IRS — no commercial upsells
- Many returns supported (W-2, EIC, child credits)
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) for in-person help
Cons
- Income limit ($79K AGI) excludes higher earners
- Direct File state availability limited (expanding)
- Less polished UI than commercial competitors
- Doesn't support all complex situations (self-employed limited)