What is TurboTax Free File now offering?

A limited window of truly free filing

TurboTax has opened a temporary Free File option through its app that permits eligible filers to submit both federal and state returns without charge. The company is positioning the offer as genuinely free—removing the usual upsell path—and reports that it covers over 100 million users for this promotion, which runs through February 28.

How it works in practice

• Users download the TurboTax app and navigate to the Free File pathway.
• The service walks filers through standard document uploads (W‑2s, 1099s, bank statements) and asks the same questions typical tax software uses to determine credits and deductions.
• If a filer’s situation is straightforward, the app completes the filing at no cost; more complex returns may trigger prompts to upgrade, but the Free File path aims to reduce those instances.

Why this matters

For many taxpayers, especially those sensitive to software costs or uncertain about paid tiers, the promotion makes professional‑grade tax filing accessible during a busy season. It may also alter behavior: free access can pull users away from competitors or from paid tiers they might otherwise have purchased. From a public‑interest perspective, widening access to free electronic filing helps reduce barriers for taxpayers who lack resources for paid preparers.

Practical tips for users

• Gather common tax documents (W‑2s, 1099s, Social Security numbers) before starting.
• Confirm you’re in the Free File path in the app to avoid unintended upgrades.
• File before the promotional deadline to ensure the free option is still available.

It’s still unclear how long TurboTax will maintain truly free filing beyond this promotion, but for now the window offers a no‑cost option for millions of taxpayers.