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If you filed an extension on time, the deadline to file your 2025 tax return is October 15, 2026. Gather your income documents and choose a free filing option through the IRS. For guided software, the income limit is a 2025 AGI of $89,000 or less.
The deadline and income limit are based on an IRS announcement dated August 26, 2026.
How to file through an official IRS option
Start on the official IRS Free File page. IRS Free File lets eligible taxpayers file federal tax returns for free. Choose between guided software and electronic forms that you fill out yourself.
- Check your filing deadline. Have your extension confirmation or filing record ready. If you qualify for disaster tax relief, check the IRS notice for your area.
- Gather your filing documents. Prepare your 2025 income documents and proof of deductions. Have the prior-year tax return information needed for your electronic signature ready, too.
- Go to the IRS Free File page. For guided filing, select “Free Guided Tax Software.” To fill out forms yourself, go to Free File Fillable Forms.
- Check the requirements and submit your return. Review each guided software provider’s income, age, and state residency requirements. Check the cost of filing a state tax return before creating an account.
- Check whether the IRS accepted your return. If you receive a rejection notice, correct the error and submit it again. Keep a copy of your return and the acceptance confirmation.
Going directly to a provider’s regular sales site does not put you on the Free File path. Use the dedicated link from the IRS. You can find detailed steps in the IRS Korean-language Free File guide.
Gather your income documents and deduction records before filing.AI-generated image
Documents to prepare before filing
First, gather the income documents and proof of deductions that apply to you. Check the names and taxpayer identification numbers on the documents. Prepare the account information you will use for a refund or payment separately.
| Category | Documents and information to prepare |
|---|---|
| Personal and family information | SSN or ITIN, name, and address for each person included on the return |
| 2025 income | W-2, applicable 1099 forms, and other income statements |
| Self-employment and side work | Records of income, business expenses, and estimated tax payments |
| Deductions and tax credits | Proof of applicable education expenses, care expenses, charitable contributions, and other items |
| Electronic signature | Prior-year AGI or a signature PIN you chose yourself for the prior year |
| Identity protection | IP PIN, if the IRS issued you one |
| Refund or payment | Bank account number and bank identification number, called a routing number |
Not every filer needs every document. If you used a health insurance marketplace, check Form 1095-A as well. The IRS document preparation guide has a list for different personal circumstances.
Filing deadlines by situation
October 15, 2026, is generally the filing deadline for individuals who filed an extension on time. Using Free File does not automatically extend your filing deadline. Check separately for exceptions related to disaster relief or living abroad.
| Your situation | Applicable deadline or rule | What to check now |
|---|---|---|
| Valid extension requested by the regular deadline | Deadline to file a 2025 return is October 15, 2026 | Extension filing record and whether your return is ready |
| No extension and no other exception | Regular filing deadline is April 15, 2026 | How to handle a late return and unpaid taxes |
| Eligible for IRS disaster tax relief | Deadline set in the notice for your area | Covered area, applicable taxes, and filing and payment deadlines |
| Citizens, resident aliens, and others living outside the United States | Separate extension rules may apply if requirements are met | Rules for people living abroad and records of any additional extension |
The basic filing deadline rules are in the IRS extension guide. Check the IRS disaster tax relief guide for covered areas and what the relief applies to.
Can I request a new extension now?
The period for requesting a 2025 extension through Free File has already ended. The income limit for guided filing did not apply to free extension requests. But requesting an extension and submitting a return are separate functions. The current status is stated in the IRS guide to requesting an extension through Free File.
Guided software compared with electronic forms
If you want to prepare your return by answering questions, first check whether you qualify for guided software. If you can fill out tax forms yourself, electronic forms are another option. With either method, check that the forms you need are supported.
| Comparison | Guided software | Free File Fillable Forms |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 income limit | AGI of $89,000 or less | No income limit |
| Additional requirements | Vary by provider, including income, age, and state residency | Check account creation requirements and supported forms |
| How you prepare the return | Software helps you prepare it as you answer questions | Select and fill out the forms you need yourself |
| Calculations and error checks | Provides calculations and error checks | Limited calculations and error checks |
| Cost to file a federal return | Free if you meet the provider’s requirements | Free |
| State tax returns | Some are free; check costs by provider | Not supported |
$89,000 is not the threshold below which you owe no tax. It is the income limit used to choose a free guided filing service. Even if you meet the income limit, check each provider’s additional requirements. This comparison is based on the IRS guide to choosing a Free File option.
Requirements to check before using electronic forms
Free File Fillable Forms requires a U.S. mobile phone number that can receive text messages. It must be a 10-digit U.S. number. You also need an email address, and using a computer is recommended.
- Create a new account for this filing season even if you have used the service before.
- Check whether it supports the forms and attachments you need.
- Access may be restricted in some areas for security reasons.
- File your state tax return separately.
You can find the detailed requirements in the IRS electronic forms guide.
