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

New Haven, CT : The IRS has officially discontinued its Direct File program for 2026. If you were planning to use this free filing option, you need a new plan: and fast. The April 15th deadline is approaching, and New Haven taxpayers still have multiple no-cost and affordable alternatives to get their returns filed on time.

Here's the deal: Direct File is gone, but you're not out of options. Whether you earned $25,000 or $125,000 last year, there's a filing method that fits your situation. Let's break down the five best routes you can take right now.

Option 1: IRS Free File with Guided Tax Software

Who qualifies: Taxpayers with 2025 adjusted gross income (AGI) of $89,000 or less.

This is probably your best bet if you earned under $89,000 last year. The IRS Free File program partners with eight trusted software companies that offer completely free guided tax prep. You get step-by-step instructions, automatic calculations that catch math errors, and electronic filing that speeds up your refund.

Critical reminder: Access Free File ONLY through IRS.gov. Don't go directly to a commercial website like TurboTax or H&R Block. If you do, you'll likely end up on their paid tiers. Start at the IRS portal, select your software provider based on your situation, and follow the prompts.

Each partner has slightly different eligibility requirements beyond the income cap. Some support military members, others handle students with education credits, and a few specialize in Spanish-language assistance. Review your options carefully before committing to one provider.

Filing window: January 26 through October 15, 2026.

Option 2: Free Fillable Forms for DIY Filers

Who qualifies: Anyone, regardless of income level.

If you're comfortable with tax terminology and prefer total control over your return, Free Fillable Forms might work. These are digital versions of standard IRS forms with basic math assistance built in. You enter information directly into each field, the system performs simple calculations, and you file electronically when finished.

What you won't get: Guided interviews, tax advice, or help with Connecticut state returns. You're essentially filling out paper forms on a computer. If you've got a complex tax situation: rental properties, stock sales, business income: this option can get complicated fast.

Use this route if you have a straightforward W-2, take the standard deduction, and don't need someone walking you through every question.

Option 3: VITA Programs in New Haven

Who qualifies: Low- to moderate-income taxpayers, elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, and limited English speakers.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites operate throughout New Haven every tax season. IRS-certified volunteers prepare your return for free, in person, and can handle situations that software might struggle with: like mixed immigration status households, prior-year amendments, or Connecticut property tax credits.

VITA is especially valuable if you're not comfortable with computers or if your tax situation requires a human touch. Volunteers can answer questions in real time, double-check your forms before filing, and explain why you're getting the refund (or bill) you're getting.

Find a location: Search "VITA sites near me" or check with New Haven community centers and libraries. Appointments fill up quickly in March, so book early.

Option 4: GetYourRefund.org for Virtual Help

This nonprofit connects qualifying taxpayers with IRS-certified volunteers: but you never leave your house. Upload your tax documents, answer a few basic questions, and a preparer follows up within days. The entire process takes two to three weeks from start to finish.

GetYourRefund.org also offers services in Spanish, which is a lifesaver if English isn't your first language. If you prefer to file yourself but want access to free software, they also provide a "File Myself" option that connects you to partner programs.

Best for: Busy New Haven residents who can't make it to a VITA site but still want personalized help without the software learning curve.

Option 5: Private Tax Software Free Tiers

Who qualifies: Varies by provider; typically requires simple tax situations.

Companies like TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxSlayer all offer free versions: but there's a catch. These free tiers usually only support W-2 income, standard deductions, and the most basic tax credits. The moment you need to report 1099 income, itemize deductions, or claim education credits, you'll hit an upgrade prompt.

State returns cost extra: Expect to pay $20–$40 for Connecticut filing, even if your federal return stays free.

One exception: FreeTaxUSA offers free federal returns regardless of complexity. You can report business income, rental properties, and stock sales without upgrading. State returns still cost money ($14.99 for Connecticut), but it's one of the most affordable paid options out there.

Warning: Avoid the temptation to skip your state return. Connecticut requires separate filing, and you could face penalties for non-compliance even if you don't owe state taxes.

How to Choose Your Best Option

Ask yourself three questions:

1. What was your 2025 AGI? If it's under $89,000, IRS Free File is your top choice. Over that threshold, you'll need Free Fillable Forms, paid software, or professional help.

2. How complex is your situation? W-2 only with standard deduction? Software works fine. Multiple income streams, dependents, or credits? Consider VITA or a professional preparer.

3. Are you comfortable doing it yourself? If tax forms make your head spin, don't force it. VITA and GetYourRefund.org exist for exactly this reason.

For most New Haven taxpayers earning under $89,000 with straightforward W-2 jobs, IRS Free File delivers the best balance of cost savings and ease of use. You get guided support without paying a dime.

When Professional Help Makes Sense

Free options are great: until they're not. If you're self-employed, own rental property, sold investments, or dealt with major life changes (divorce, inheritance, moving states), a professional tax preparer can save you more money than they cost.

At Jose's Tax Service, we specialize in helping New Haven small business owners and families navigate complex returns that free software can't handle. Our personalized service means you're not clicking through generic questions: you're sitting down with someone who understands Connecticut tax law and knows how to maximize your deductions.

We offer competitive rates and year-round support, which matters when the IRS sends you a letter in July about a return you filed in February. Free software disappears after April 15th. We don't.

File Early, File Right

The April 15th deadline is firm. If you miss it without filing an extension, you'll face penalties of 5% per month on any unpaid tax (up to 25% total). Even if you can't pay what you owe, file on time. You can set up a payment plan with the IRS afterward and avoid the late-filing penalty.

Key deadlines to remember:

• February 13, 2026: Most W-2s and 1099s must be postmarked by this date
• April 15, 2026: Tax returns due
• October 15, 2026: Extended deadline (if you filed Form 4868 by April 15th)

Direct File may be gone, but you've got options: free, affordable, and professional. Choose the one that matches your income, complexity, and comfort level. And if you're still not sure which route to take, stop by Jose's Tax Service or give us a call. We'll help you figure it out without the sales pitch.

Categories: News, Tax Planning