IRS Direct File Is Gone for 2026: Here Are Your 5 Best Free (and Affordable) Tax Filing Options in New Haven

New Haven, CT : February 2026 : The IRS Direct File pilot program that allowed taxpayers in select states to file directly with the IRS has concluded for the 2026 tax season. If you relied on this free option last year, you'll need to pivot to alternative filing methods before the April 15th deadline.

The good news? New Haven taxpayers still have access to multiple free and low-cost tax filing options: some you may not even know about.

Here's what you need to know right now.

Why IRS Direct File Isn't Available This Year

The IRS Direct File program was a limited pilot initiative designed to test a government-run tax filing system. While the program received positive feedback from participating taxpayers, it was not expanded nationwide for the 2026 filing season. Taxpayers who used Direct File in previous years must now use alternative methods to file their federal and state returns.

This change affects thousands of Connecticut residents who were counting on that straightforward, no-cost filing method. But don't panic: there are still excellent options available.

Your 5 Best Free and Affordable Tax Filing Options for 2026

1. IRS Free File Program (Income Under $89,000)

Eligibility: Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $89,000 or less for tax year 2025

The IRS Free File program partners with commercial tax software providers including TaxSlayer, TaxAct, and others to offer completely free federal tax preparation and electronic filing. Each provider sets additional eligibility requirements based on age, income, military status, or state residency.

Key Details:

• Available from January 9 through mid-October 2026
• Access the program exclusively through IRS.gov
• Most providers include free state return filing
• Full interview-style guidance included
• Direct deposit available for faster refunds

Action Required: Visit the IRS Free File website, answer the eligibility questions, and you'll be matched with qualifying software providers. Do not go directly to commercial tax software websites, as you may be charged fees.

2. IRS Free File Fillable Forms (Any Income Level)

Eligibility: No income restrictions

Free File Fillable Forms are electronic versions of IRS paper forms that anyone can use regardless of income. This option requires more tax knowledge, as you'll receive no guidance or assistance completing the forms.

Best For:

• Taxpayers comfortable preparing their own returns
• Those with straightforward tax situations
• Individuals who have filed multiple times before

Limitations:

• No step-by-step guidance or error checking
• No state tax return filing option
• Basic math calculations only
• Requires understanding of tax law and form instructions

This option saves money but demands tax preparation knowledge. If your return includes complex deductions, credits, or multiple income sources, consider a guided option instead.

3. GetYourRefund.org (Full-Service Virtual Assistance)

Eligibility: Generally available to low- to moderate-income taxpayers

GetYourRefund.org connects you with IRS-certified volunteers who prepare your entire tax return at no cost. The service operates virtually, making it convenient for New Haven residents who can't visit physical tax preparation sites.

How It Works:

1. Upload your tax documents through a secure portal
2. An IRS-certified volunteer reviews your information
3. You receive your completed return for review (typically 2-3 weeks)
4. Approve and file electronically

Additional Benefits:

• Available in Spanish
• "File Myself" option connects you to partner tax software if you prefer DIY
• No software purchases required
• Qualified volunteers trained on current tax law

4. Free Commercial Software Tiers (Simple Returns Only)

Major tax preparation companies including TurboTax, H&R Block, and others offer free versions of their software for taxpayers with simple tax situations.

Typical Eligibility:

• W-2 income only
• Standard deduction (no itemizing)
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) qualification
• Limited or no investment income

Important Warning: These free tiers often attempt to upsell premium services. Read eligibility requirements carefully. If your tax situation exceeds the free tier limits, you may face unexpected charges at filing time.

Most free commercial tiers do not include state return filing. Budget an additional $15-$40 for state filing if required.

5. FreeTaxUSA and Cash App Taxes (Unlimited Complexity)

Cost: Free federal filing regardless of tax complexity; state filing fees vary

FreeTaxUSA and Cash App Taxes offer free federal return preparation for all taxpayers, regardless of income level or return complexity. This makes them valuable alternatives if your situation exceeds typical free tier limitations.

FreeTaxUSA:

• Free federal filing for all returns
• State filing: $14.99 per state
• Supports schedules C, D, E, and other complex forms
• Audit assistance available for additional fee

Cash App Taxes:

• Completely free federal and state filing
• No hidden fees or upsells
• Supports most tax situations
• Mobile-friendly interface

VITA Sites: Free In-Person Help in New Haven

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites operate throughout New Haven during tax season, offering free in-person tax preparation for qualifying taxpayers. VITA volunteers are IRS-certified and can handle most tax situations.

Typical Eligibility:

• Income generally $64,000 or less
• Disabilities
• Limited English proficiency

Contact the IRS at 1-800-906-9887 to locate the nearest VITA site in New Haven or visit IRS.gov and search for "Free Tax Return Preparation."

When Free Might Not Be Best: The Case for Professional Help

Free tax software works well for straightforward W-2 returns with standard deductions. But consider professional tax preparation if your situation includes:

• Self-employment or 1099 income
• Rental property income or expenses
• Investment sales or complex capital gains
• Home office deductions
• Multiple income streams
• Prior year tax issues or unfiled returns
• Audit concerns or IRS correspondence

Jose's Tax Service: Personalized New Haven Tax Preparation

At Jose's Tax Service, we understand that tax software can't answer questions, explain strategy, or identify deductions you didn't know existed. Our experienced tax professionals provide personalized service at competitive rates: often comparable to premium software costs.

Why New Haven Taxpayers Choose Jose's Tax Service:

• Face-to-face or virtual consultations available
• Expertise with Connecticut state tax requirements
• Proactive identification of overlooked deductions
• Year-round support for tax questions
• Representation if IRS issues arise
• Small business and self-employment specialization

Free isn't always the best value if it means leaving money on the table. Our tax professionals regularly identify deductions and credits that exceed our service fees.

Take Action Before April 15th!

The April 15, 2026 filing deadline will arrive faster than you expect. Choose your filing method now and gather your tax documents.

Your Next Steps:

1. Gather documents: W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductions, prior year tax return
2. Assess complexity: Simple W-2 return or more complicated situation?
3. Choose your filing method: Free software, VITA site, or professional service
4. File early: Avoid last-minute stress and reduce identity theft risk
5. Track your refund: Use IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool after filing

Don't let the IRS Direct File discontinuation delay your filing. Multiple excellent options exist for New Haven taxpayers at every income level and tax situation complexity.

Questions about which filing option is right for you? Contact Jose's Tax Service at josestaxservice.com for a free consultation. We'll help you determine whether free software meets your needs or if professional preparation could save you money this year.

File accurately. File on time. Get every dollar you deserve.