File your taxes and track your refund
Explore IRS Free File, prepare your paperwork, and check an existing refund.
Responsible agency: Internal Revenue Service · Reviewed 2026-09-29.
Steps to prepare
Gather your tax records
Prepare income statements, relevant deduction and credit records, and the prior-year information needed to sign electronically.
Choose an IRS Free File option
Start on IRS.gov to compare guided software eligibility. Free File Fillable Forms are also available for people comfortable preparing their own return.
Already filed? Check your refund
Use the IRS refund tracker with your tax year, filing status, exact refund amount, and Social Security number or ITIN.
Eligibility to check
- Guided Free File providers set income, age, or residency requirements.
- Free File is for current-year returns.
Information or documents to prepare
- W-2s, 1099s, and other income records
- Deduction and credit records
- Prior-year AGI or signing information
Cost and timing
Cost: Free federal filing for qualifying users; state filing charges may apply.
Timing: Confirm the deadline and any extension or disaster relief with the IRS.
Your next step
Compare official Free File options or check your refund.
Read the official Internal Revenue Service source
This is an independent preparation guide, not an application or eligibility decision. Confirm current requirements with the agency.