Online Federal Tax Preparation Software - Free File

You may be eligible to access free commercial online tax preparation software through the IRS website. 

The benefits of using free commercial online preparation software include:

  • Access to tax preparation software at no cost;
  • Increased efficiency in preparing your federal individual income tax return;
  • Increased return accuracy;
  • Acknowledgement of filing; and
  • Quicker refunds.

DISCLAIMER: The University is providing a link to IRS Free File as a resource to graduate school and professional school students and postdoctoral fellows at Yale University. It is intended exclusively for an individual’s use. It is entirely each student’s responsibility to complete and submit his or her U.S. Federal individual income tax return. Yale University assumes no liability or responsibility of any kind arising out of or in connection with an individual’s use or misuse of the IRS Free File Program.

To learn more about the eligibility requirements, the benefits of using this service, or to access the online software, visit the IRS Free File site.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who generally make $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities, the elderly and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals.  VITA sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls and other convenient locations across the country. To locate the nearest VITA site near you, use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887. Further, the IRS has provided a video pertaining to the VITA Program.