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

February 5, 2026 • Giveaways

NEW HAVEN, CT – February 5, 2026 – The IRS Direct File pilot program has officially ended, leaving many taxpayers wondering how they'll file their 2026 tax returns without paying hefty software fees. But don't panic! There are still several legitimate ways to file your taxes for free (or at least affordably) right here in New Haven.

Whether you're a recent graduate earning under $50k, a small business owner looking to save on prep fees, or someone who just wants straightforward tax help without the upsell tactics, this guide breaks down your five best options for the 2026 tax season.

What Happened to IRS Direct File?

The IRS Direct File program was a pilot initiative that allowed eligible taxpayers to file directly with the IRS at no cost. After its trial run, the program was discontinued for 2026. This leaves millions of taxpayers: many right here in Connecticut: searching for alternatives that won't drain their refund with processing fees.

The good news? The IRS still offers free filing options through its Free File program, and New Haven residents have access to local resources that can make tax season significantly less stressful.

Option #1: IRS Free File Guided Tax Software – Best for Simple Returns Under $89,000 AGI

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

If your financial situation is relatively straightforward and you made less than $89k last year, IRS Free File Guided Tax Software is your go-to option. For 2026, there are eight IRS Free File trusted partners available, each offering branded tax software at zero cost to qualified filers.

Here's how it works:

Visit IRS.gov and use the "Find Your Trusted Partner" tool
Enter your basic information (income, age, state, military status)
Select from partners that match your eligibility requirements
Complete your federal return using step-by-step guidance
Some partners also offer free state tax return preparation and filing

Each partner sets its own additional eligibility requirements beyond the income threshold. Some may have age restrictions, require specific state residency, or cater to military members. The key is to browse through your options and find the partner whose software interface feels most intuitive to you.

Important protections you should know about:

All IRS Free File partners are prohibited from upselling additional services or charging hidden fees. They cannot sell bank products like refund anticipation loans, and they're banned from engaging in deceptive online practices. Plus, member software companies guarantee calculation accuracy and will pay any resulting IRS penalties and interest if their software makes an error.

Option #2: IRS Free File Fillable Forms – Best for DIY Filers at Any Income Level

Eligibility: Available to taxpayers at any income level.

If you made more than $89,000 last year or you're comfortable navigating tax forms on your own, IRS Free File Fillable Forms might be your solution. Think of this as the digital version of paper forms: no frills, no guidance, just electronic forms you fill out yourself.

What you need to know:

Enter your information into online forms that mirror paper tax forms
Basic calculations are performed automatically, but advanced calculations are limited
No state tax filing available through this option
Best suited for taxpayers who understand tax law or have very simple returns

This option requires more tax knowledge than guided software. You'll need to know which forms to use, what deductions you qualify for, and how to calculate your own credits. If you're not confident in your tax knowledge, consider one of the other options below.

Option #3: VITA and TCE Programs – Best for Low-Income and Senior Taxpayers

Eligibility: Generally for individuals making $64,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. TCE focuses on taxpayers age 60 and older.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals right here in New Haven. These are IRS-certified volunteers who can handle straightforward returns with common credits and deductions.

Where to find VITA/TCE sites in New Haven:

Contact the IRS directly or visit IRS.gov to locate the nearest site. Many are hosted at community centers, libraries, and nonprofit organizations throughout New Haven and surrounding areas. Appointments typically fill up fast during peak tax season (late February through April), so call early.

What to bring to your appointment:

Valid government-issued photo ID
Social Security cards for you, your spouse, and dependents
All income documents (W-2s, 1099s, etc.)
Documentation for deductions and credits
Bank account information for direct deposit

VITA and TCE volunteers can prepare returns electronically and help you e-file, which speeds up your refund processing time significantly.

Option #4: MilTax – Best for Active-Duty Military and Veterans

Eligibility: Active-duty military members, reservists, National Guard members, and certain veterans.

MilTax, offered through the Department of Defense, is a free tax resource specifically designed for the military community. It allows electronic filing of one federal return and up to three state returns at no cost.

Key benefits for military filers:

Handles military-specific tax situations (combat pay, moving expenses, etc.)
Available regardless of income level
Includes access to tax consultants who understand military benefits
Covers federal and multiple state returns for military families with complex residency situations

Active-duty military members can also use any IRS Free File Guided Tax provider for free federal tax return preparation when their AGI falls within the program's threshold. This gives service members maximum flexibility in choosing the filing method that works best for their situation.

Option #5: Professional Tax Preparation at Jose's Tax Service – Best for Complex Returns and Peace of Mind

Eligibility: Open to all taxpayers. Competitive rates for New Haven residents.

Let's be real: not everyone wants to spend their weekend wrestling with tax software or driving across town to a volunteer site. Some tax situations are just too complex for DIY solutions: multiple income streams, small business income, rental properties, investment income, or significant life changes like divorce or inheritance.

That's where professional tax preparation makes sense, and you don't have to pay big-box chain prices to get expert help.

Why New Haven taxpayers choose Jose's Tax Service:

Personalized service: You work directly with experienced tax professionals who understand Connecticut tax law and local deductions
Year-round support: Questions about an IRS notice in July? We're here to help, not just during tax season
Competitive rates: Affordable pricing designed for real people, not corporations
Complex return expertise: We handle business returns, rental income, investment portfolios, and multi-state filings
Maximum refund guarantee: We dig for every credit and deduction you're entitled to claim

Professional preparation isn't just about convenience: it's about accuracy and audit protection. When you work with a tax professional, you're getting someone who stays current on tax law changes, knows which red flags to avoid, and can represent you if questions arise later.

Ready to file? Visit Jose's Tax Service to schedule your appointment or get a free quote on your tax preparation.

Making Your Decision: Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing the right filing option depends on three factors: your income level, the complexity of your return, and your comfort level with tax concepts.

Choose IRS Free File Guided Software if: You earn under $89,000, have a W-2 job, claim standard deductions, and feel comfortable using online software.

Choose IRS Free File Fillable Forms if: You earn above $89,000, understand tax forms well, and don't mind doing calculations yourself.

Choose VITA/TCE if: You earn under $64,000, are age 60+, or need in-person assistance with a straightforward return.

Choose MilTax if: You're active-duty military, a veteran, or have military-specific tax situations.

Choose professional tax preparation if: Your return involves business income, multiple states, investments, rental property, or you simply want expert guidance and maximum refund potential.

Don't Wait Until the Last Minute!

The April 15th deadline approaches faster than you think. Free File options open in late January, and VITA/TCE appointments book quickly by mid-February. If you're planning to use a professional service, scheduling early gives you more flexibility and reduces stress.

New Haven taxpayers have excellent options for filing their 2026 taxes without breaking the bank. Whether you choose a free IRS program or invest in professional preparation, the key is to file accurately and on time.

Need help deciding which option is best for your situation? Contact Jose's Tax Service for a free consultation. We'll review your tax situation and help you determine whether DIY filing makes sense or if professional preparation would save you money in the long run.

Don't let the end of IRS Direct File throw you off track this tax season. You've got options: and we're here to help you choose the right one.