Today is the deadline to file tax returns for 2021

Today is the deadline to file your federal and state income tax returns for 2021.

And the Internal Revenue Service is urging low- to moderate-income individuals and families, especially those who don’t normally file a tax return, to use IRS Free File to prepare their own federal tax return, file electronically and get a refund by direct deposit – all for free.

The tax software guides people through each section of their tax return using a question-and-answer format. It’s safe, easy, and free to file a federal return.

One thing to be aware of, however. Individuals who didn’t earn enough money to require them to file may mistakenly assume that since they owe no tax they’re not entitled to a refund.

They may, however, be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, the Child & Dependent Care Credit, the Premium Tax Credit, or the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.

Eligible people who did not receive a third round of the Economic Impact Payment or received less than the full amount may claim the Recovery Rebate Credit when they file their 2021 tax return. Those credits are refundable and can result in a refund, even if the individual owes no income tax. The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return.

Taxpayers can use electronic filing options including IRS Free File available on IRS.gov through October 17 to prepare and file returns electronically.

IRS Free File offers free access to leading tax software to anyone who has an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less. IRS Free File offers low- to moderate-income families those experiencing homelessness, students who are now on their own or may have only worked part-time and others a fast and easy way to access these benefits.

There are eight software products in English and two in Spanish.

To access Free FileVisit IRS.gov/FreeFile for details. In addition, MilTax, available free through the Department of Defense, offers a similar online tax-preparation service to members of the military.

Because IRS Free File returns are filed electronically, the service offers everyone a great way to get their money quickly. This is especially true for anyone who chooses to have their refund deposited directly into a savings or checking account.

For more information on IRS Free File or filing your 2021 return, you can go online to IRS.gov.