Filing taxes online in 2025 doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. FreeTaxUSA is a popular choice for taxpayers who want to file their federal return for free while paying a low fee for state filing. This guide explains exactly how to file your taxes using FreeTaxUSA, step by step. 

Step 1: Create or Log In to Your Account

Start by creating a FreeTaxUSA account using your email address and a secure password. If you’ve used FreeTaxUSA before, log in and import your previous year’s tax information. Importing old data helps reduce errors and speeds up the filing process.

Step 2: Enter Your Personal Information

Next, you’ll be asked to provide basic personal details such as your full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status. If you have dependents, you’ll also enter their information at this stage.FreeTaxUSA provides clear explanations to help you choose the correct filing status and ensure your dependents qualify under IRS rules.

Step 3: Add Your Income Details

In the income section, enter all sources of income you received during the year. This may include wages from employment, freelance or gig income, interest from bank accounts, dividends, unemployment compensation, or retirement income.

FreeTaxUSA calculates totals automatically and shows how each income source affects your tax outcome.

Step 4: Claim Deductions and Credits

This step is crucial for reducing your tax liability or increasing your refund. FreeTaxUSA guides you through available deductions and credits such as the standard or itemized deduction, education-related benefits, child-related credits, retirement contributions, and health savings accounts.

The software automatically chooses the option that gives you the best tax result.

Step 5: Review Your Tax Summary

Before filing, you’ll see a complete summary of your tax return, including your estimated refund or amount owed. FreeTaxUSA performs error checks and alerts you to missing or inconsistent information.

Take your time here and review everything carefully to avoid delays or corrections later.

Step 6: Choose Your Refund or Payment Method

If you’re getting a refund, you can select direct deposit or receive a paper check by mail. Direct deposit is the fastest option. If you owe taxes, you can choose to pay through bank withdrawal, credit card, or by mailing a payment to the IRS.

Step 7: File Your Tax Return Electronically

Once all information is complete and reviewed, you can electronically file your federal tax return for free. State filing is available for a low flat fee, depending on your state. After submission, you’ll receive confirmation once your return is accepted.

Step 8: Track Your Refund

After filing, you can monitor the status of your refund through your FreeTaxUSA account or the IRS refund tracking system. Most refunds are issued within a few weeks when filed electronically with direct deposit.

FreeTaxUSA is an excellent option for individuals and families looking for a simple, affordable way to file taxes in 2025. With free federal filing, clear instructions, and reliable calculations, it’s especially useful for taxpayers who want accuracy without paying high software fees.