The IRS shut down its direct filing program for 2026, but some tools remain—if you know where to look. Here’s how to navigate the free options that are still available.

While most Americans may still face a seamless tax season, the staff cuts coupled with new laws threaten to make the 2026 filing season more difficult, frustrating, and costly for taxpayers, practitioners, and the IRS, the report said.

Through the VITA program, trained and IRS-certified volunteers assist with preparing and filing federal and state income tax returns at no cost. The program is designed to support individuals who generally earn $67,000 or less, people with disabilities, older adults and limited English-speaking taxpayers.

Tax management platform Instead is planning to offer completely free tax return preparation and filing for Forms 1040, 1041, 1120, 1120-S and 1065. Processing Content "If you want to prepare your return, or print and file your return, or electronically ...

Each year, Americans spend an average of $240 to prepare and file their tax returns, according to the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service. And the process is so complicated that about a million taxpayers who could get money back don’t file returns,

If you find the tax filing process confusing and costly, you’re not alone! This local woman has some advice to share. 👇 NowPartner #taxseason #Birminghamalabama #UnitedWay #taxprep CM