TurboTax Free Edition: what's actually free
Updated for the 2026 filing season
TurboTax left the IRS Free File program, so its free tier now only exists on its own site. It covers simple returns and pushes almost everything else into a paid tier partway through.
Who qualifies for free
- W-2 income only
- Claiming the standard deduction
- Limited interest and dividend income reported on a 1099-INT or 1099-DIV
- Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit
What triggers an upgrade
- Any 1099 freelance, gig, or business income (Schedule C)
- Itemized deductions
- Rental income
- Investment sales (Schedule D)
| Federal | Free for simple returns |
|---|---|
| State | Included free with the simple-return tier |
| Free File Alliance | No longer a participant |
If you don't qualify
Freelance or 1099 income is the most common reason simple filers get upgraded mid-return. If that's you, Cash App Taxes is worth comparing since it includes Schedule C at no cost.