IRS Free File Opens January 9, 2026: Here’s When You Can Start Preparing Your Tax Return

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that the Free File system for the 2026 tax season will officially open on Friday, January 9, 2026. This early opening gives millions of Americans the opportunity to begin preparing their 2025 federal tax returns online for free, well before the IRS starts processing returns later in the month.

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Through the IRS Free File program, taxpayers earning $89,000 or less in 2025 can access guided, brand-name tax software at no cost to prepare and file federal tax returns electronically. The system provides a secure and accessible way to get a head start on tax season, ensuring eligible filers can submit returns quickly and claim refunds earlier once processing begins.

As IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel stated, “IRS Free File remains one of the most valuable and trusted tools available for American taxpayers. By opening early, we’re helping filers get a jump on preparing accurate returns and reducing last-minute stress.”

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IRS Free File Opens January 9, 2026

The IRS Free File initiative, launched in 2003 through a partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance (a group of private tax software providers), offers free federal tax preparation and e-filing for qualifying individuals. Over the past two decades, the program has helped more than 70 million Americans prepare their taxes without cost.

Each year, Free File opens before the broader filing season to allow taxpayers to complete and submit returns that will be transmitted to the IRS once processing officially begins. The early start helps spread out filing activity and avoid delays, particularly during peak tax season.

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The 2026 tax season covers returns for the 2025 tax year, meaning most taxpayers will be reporting income earned between January 1 and December 31, 2025.

Overview of IRS Free File

Benefit	Description
Cost-Free Filing	No charge for federal tax preparation and filing for eligible taxpayers.
Trusted Software Providers	Access to brand-name partners like TaxAct, 1040Now, and FreeTaxUSA.
Automatic Accuracy Checks	Built-in validation helps minimize filing errors.
Secure and Private	Data encryption meets IRS cybersecurity standards.
Mobile Friendly	Accessible through smartphones, tablets, and computers.

When Does IRS Free File Open and What Are the Key Dates?

According to the IRS, here’s the complete schedule for the 2026 tax filing season:

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Event	Date (2026)	Details
IRS Free File Opens (Guided Software)	January 9	Eligible taxpayers can start preparing and submitting returns through Free File providers.
IRS Begins Accepting Returns (Filing Season Opens)	January 26	Official start of the 2026 filing season; IRS begins processing returns and issuing refunds.
Free File Fillable Forms Available	January 26	For taxpayers of all income levels who prefer self-preparation.
Tax Filing Deadline	April 15	Deadline to file 2025 returns or request an extension.

The IRS emphasizes that while Free File opens January 9, returns will not be processed until January 26, when the full filing season begins. Filers can still submit returns through Free File before that date, and the IRS will automatically queue them for processing.

Eligibility Rules for IRS Free File

To qualify for the IRS Free File program in 2026:

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• Your adjusted gross income (AGI) must be $89,000 or less for 2025.
• You must file a simple to moderate return (W-2 income, unemployment benefits, interest, child tax credits, etc.).
• Some Free File partners may also offer state tax filing at no additional cost, depending on your state of residence.

Taxpayers who earn above the income threshold can still access Free File Fillable Forms starting January 26, which provide digital versions of IRS paper forms for self-preparation.

What’s New for the 2026 Filing Season?

1. Expanded Free File Providers:
   The Free File Alliance has added new software partners in 2026, giving taxpayers more options for guided filing based on income, filing status, and state residency.
2. Enhanced Security Measures:
   New multi-factor authentication (MFA) requirements and enhanced encryption protocols have been added to safeguard taxpayer data.
3. Improved Accessibility:
   The IRS has improved Free File’s mobile and language accessibility, allowing better navigation for Spanish-speaking users and individuals with visual impairments.
4. Early Refund Tracking:
   Filers who submit early through Free File will be able to check refund status via the “Where’s My Refund?” tool starting January 26, 2026.

Why Filing Early Matters?

Filing early has multiple advantages:

• Faster Refunds: Early filers are often among the first to receive refunds, particularly through direct deposit.
• Fraud Prevention: Filing early helps reduce the risk of identity theft or fraudulent returns filed under your Social Security number.
• More Time to Fix Errors: If you discover missing documents or discrepancies, early filing gives you time to correct them before the April 15 deadline.

According to tax expert Dr. Michelle Carter of the National Tax Policy Institute,

“Early use of IRS Free File not only reduces last-minute stress but also helps identify potential refund opportunities or eligibility for credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit.”

Expert Insight and Commentary

IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel highlighted the agency’s ongoing efforts to improve taxpayer experience:

“Our mission is to simplify the tax process. The early opening of Free File means people can start gathering documents and file as soon as they’re ready without paying third-party fees.”

Emily Thompson, a certified public accountant (CPA) in Chicago, recommends using Free File to prepare returns even before the official IRS processing date:

“It’s an excellent tool for those who want to get organized. By entering your W-2s and 1099s early, you can avoid the April rush and understand your refund or balance due in advance.”

Impact and Implications for Taxpayers

With the economy stabilizing after several years of inflationary pressure, many taxpayers are eager to claim refunds or adjust withholdings for 2026. The Free File program provides a no-cost, government-backed alternative to commercial tax filing platforms that charge high fees.

Experts note that this accessibility is especially helpful for:

• Low- and moderate-income households
• Students and first-time filers
• Seniors on fixed incomes
• Self-employed individuals with simple income reporting needs

For millions of Americans, IRS Free File remains a vital tool in reducing filing costs.

Final Thoughts

The early January 9 opening of IRS Free File gives taxpayers a head start on the 2026 filing season, offering free, secure, and accurate ways to prepare returns online. By taking advantage of this system, Americans can reduce stress, minimize costs, and avoid the last-minute rush.

As Commissioner Werfel noted, “Taxpayers shouldn’t have to pay to file accurate returns. Free File ensures fairness, convenience, and security for all eligible filers.”

Whether you’re expecting a refund, planning for an extension, or simply getting organized, now is the time to prepare before the official IRS processing window opens later this month. ensuring accurate, timely returns.

Frequently Asked Questions