TurboTax Free Edition (Online)
Free federal and state filing for simple Form 1040 returns.
Free federal + state for simple returns only (about 37% of filers qualify). Not everyone is eligible — TurboTax may prompt an upgrade if your return needs extra forms.
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Key features
- Form 1040 with the standard deduction
- W-2 income, limited interest and dividend income
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- Child Tax Credit and student loan interest deduction
- Free federal AND free state for those who qualify
Specifications
| Platform | Online (web + mobile app) |
|---|---|
| Federal price | $0 (simple returns only) |
| State price | $0 (simple returns only) |
| Itemized deductions (Schedule A) | Not included |
| Investment income (Schedule D) | Not included |
| Self-employment (Schedule C) | Not included |
| Expert help | Optional upgrade to Live |
Pros
- ✓Truly $0 for both federal and state when you qualify
- ✓An easy, interview-style flow that's perfect if it's your first time
- ✓Handles common credits like the EITC and Child Tax Credit
Cons
- ✕Only covers simple returns — many situations will bump you to a paid edition
- ✕No itemized deductions, investments, or self-employment
- ✕Eligibility is narrower than the name might lead you to expect
Who the Free Edition is really for
TurboTax Free Edition is built for the most common filing situation in America: one job, a W-2, and the standard deduction. If that sounds like your year, you can usually file both your federal and state returns without paying a cent. TurboTax estimates that roughly 37% of taxpayers qualify, and it'll tell you early in the interview whether you're a fit.
Here's where folks tend to get tripped up: the word "simple." The moment your return needs a Schedule A (itemized deductions), Schedule C (self-employment), Schedule D (investment sales), or a handful of less-common credits, TurboTax will nudge you to a paid edition. It's not a bait-and-switch — it's just a reflection of what the free tier can actually handle.
Tips before you start
Keep your W-2, last year's return, and any 1098-E (student loan interest) within reach. If you only have wage income and you're planning to take the standard deduction, go ahead and start here — you can always upgrade later without losing any of your work. But if you already know you've got a 1099, rental income, or stock sales, you'll save yourself time by starting with Deluxe or Premium instead.
Frequently asked questions
Is TurboTax Free Edition really free?＋
Yes — for simple Form 1040 returns that qualify, both federal and state are free. If your return needs extra forms (itemizing, self-employment, investments), TurboTax will prompt you to a paid upgrade.
What counts as a simple return?＋
Generally W-2 income, the standard deduction, the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, and student loan interest. Anything beyond that usually means you'll need Deluxe or higher.
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$0–$89TurboTax Live Assisted Basic
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