How To Free File Your Federal and California Income Tax Returns
You will need to find an easy and affordable way to file your federal and state income tax returns.Depending on your income, you may be able to use free online services to file your federal and state income tax returns.Even if your income is too high to use certain services, you can still file your taxes for free by using online forms and online filing.
Step 1: Determine how much you make.
In order to file a free federal tax return using brand-name software, the IRS requires that you have an income of less than $62,000 per year.Some software companies will want your income to be less.You will need to verify your income before you can use the software.Gather income information and receipts pertaining to social security benefits, unemployment compensation, small business transactions, and real estate transactions.You can get W-2s and 1099s that show your wages, interest, refunds, and dividends.
Step 2: The documents need to be gathered.
Before you start your filing, you will need to prove your income and have certain personal information ready.If you have a valid email address, last year's tax return, electronic filing PIN number, and Valid Social Security, you should be prepared to file.
Step 3: The IRS has a website.
You should visit the IRS' Free File website once you have gathered all the documents you need and verified your income level.There is a link that says "Start Free File Now."You can begin free filing by visiting the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/uac/Free-File:-Do-Your-Federal-Taxes-for-Free.
Step 4: You can choose a free software.
Use the "help me" tool to narrow your choices, or read through the descriptions of each company to find the best software match for you.Income, age, state residency, eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit, and military status are some of the criteria used by each company.There will be at least one option if your income is less than $60,000 a year.OLT.com offers free returns to people with an income between $13,000 and $60,000 per year if they are a U.S. citizen.If your income is less than $53,500, H&R Block will give you a free federal return.If your income is less than $33,000 a year, TaxSlayer will give you a free return.
Step 5: Continue to the partner website of the IRS.
You can find a software company that fits your needs by clicking on their link.When you leave the IRS website, a notice will pop up stating that you are going to a private site.Continue to the private site you chose if you click "Leave IRS site".
Step 6: You can file a tax return.
When you reach the private site, you will be prompted to create an account.You will follow the on-screen instructions to complete your tax return once you create an account.If you complete your tax return, you will be able to track your refund and even have it deposited into your bank account.
Step 7: Ask for help.
If you need help with your tax return, the federal government can help.IRS-certified volunteers may be able to help you with questions about pensions and retirement related issues that are unique to older people.Volunteer Income Tax Assistance is free if you make less than $52,000 a year.If you use this service, qualified volunteers will help you with tax credits and prepare a basic tax return.
Step 8: Free file fillable forms can be used.
You won't be able to use the commercial software for free if you make more than $60,000 a year.You can use free fillable forms in order to file your taxes for free.You can complete your tax return online when you use these forms.You can prepare, print, and file your federal tax return for free with these forms.
Step 9: You must create an account.
You can begin the process by creating an account on the IRS website.Clicking "Leave IRS site" will allow you to continue.You will hit "continue" after selecting the "Start Free File Fillable Forms"You will need to create an account at the beginning of each tax year.You will agree to the "Terms of Service" once you complete the required information.You can create an account by visiting the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/uac/Free-File:-Do-Your-Federal-Taxes-for-Free.
Step 10: Pick your tax return.
If you want to file your income tax return, you should use Form 1040.Depending on your situation, there are three different versions to choose from.The "long form" is the most comprehensive and in-depth.The forms are for people with less income.
Step 11: You need to fill out your tax forms.
You will include any additional information you need when you fill out the correct tax return.You will be asked about your income, exemptions, taxes and credits on Form 1040.Form 1040 will tell you when to attach additional forms and what forms to use.
Step 12: You can electronically file your tax forms.
You will need to enter your income information in order to file your tax return.You will need to use your PIN number or last years adjusted gross income to verify your identity.Signing the return will allow you to file it online.
Step 13: Ask for help.
The IRS offers a number of free tax services if you need help with your taxes.IRS publications can answer frequently asked questions.You can ask the IRS about the questions you have.There are seminars and webinars offered by the IRS.
Step 14: Make sure your submission is legit.
You will want to print a copy of your return.You won't be able to print your return after October 20.To confirm receipt and acceptance of your return, you must receive two emails within 24 hours.You will be able to see when you will get your money after you file.
Step 15: The California Franchise Tax Board has a website.
The California Franchise Tax Board handles all California tax returns.You can get a number of free options for filing your state income tax return.The link that says "Other Free Options" can be found on the FTB website.There are a number of free options on your screen.You can start by visiting the FTB website at http://www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/efile/allsoftware.shtml.
Step 16: They have free filing options.
To determine each option's eligibility requirements, look through the different options.If your adjusted gross income is less than $42,000, AdvanceTaxReturn.com will give you a free state tax filing.There are no eligibility requirements for dow tax.
Step 17: You should be aware of hidden costs.
You should look for hidden costs when choosing a service to use.If you pay to file a federal tax return, e-File-Tax-Returns.org will offer free state tax filing.They will charge you to print a copy of your state tax return and to store the data for future filing.If you purchase the "Guide-Me" interview program, ezTaxReturn.com will give you a free state tax return.
Step 18: You can choose the option that works for you.
You will be ready to choose the service that will work for you once you know the eligibility requirements and hidden costs associated with each service.If you want to use the service, you have to click the link on the FTB website.When you click on that button, you will be warned that you are leaving the FTB website and going to a private site.Go to the service's website by clicking "continue".
Step 19: You can complete your state return using the company you chose.
To complete your state tax return, you will need to follow the on-screen directions at the service's website.You will need to create an account and provide certain information to the service in order to use the website.
Step 20: Ask for assistance.
If you're having trouble filing your California income tax return, the state has a number of free resources.If you are 60 or older, you can take advantage of the Tax Counseling for the Elderly, which will help you with tax questions related to pensions and retirement.The California Voluntary Income Tax Assistance program allows low income individuals to ask for help from qualified volunteers.