WASHINGTON — IRS Free File will begin accepting individual tax returns today, giving eligible taxpayers an early opportunity to prepare and file their federal income tax returns ahead of the official start of the 2026 filing season later this month.
While the filing season begins later this month, IRS Free File Guided Tax Software allows taxpayers to prepare and submit returns now and hold them for electronic filing once the season officially begins.
For 2026, eight private-sector partners are offering guided tax software products through IRS Free File to taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income of $89,000 or less in 2025.
Taxpayers with an AGI above $89,000 can use the Free File Fillable Forms, available beginning Jan. 26. These electronic versions of IRS paper forms are ideal for individuals who are comfortable preparing their own taxes using IRS instructions and publications.
Understanding IRS Free File
Each IRS Free File trusted partner sets its own eligibility requirements, which may include age, income, state residency and military status. Taxpayers and active-duty military personnel with an AGI of $89,000 or less in 2025 can find a free federal filing option; some partners also offer free state tax return preparation and filing.
Claim tax credits at no cost
IRS Free File allows eligible taxpayers to claim valuable tax benefits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit and other refundable credits. Refundable tax credits can reduce the amount of tax owed or result in a refund, even if no tax is due.
How to find the right IRS Free File product
Taxpayers can find the right product by visiting IRS.gov/freefile and:
Select “Explore Free Guided Tax Software,” then select the “Find a Trusted Partner” tool for help in finding the right product, or
Use “Browse All Trusted Partners” to review each offer,
Choose the product that best fits their situation, and
Follow the links to the trusted partner’s website to begin their tax return.
IRS Free File works on computers, smart phones or tablets.
MORE
Legislative Update
The third week of the session was very unusual. It started with fast tracking House Substitute for Senate Bill (SB) 244 that requires every multi-person restroom, locker room, changing room or shower in a public building to be designated for use by only one biological sex, with... [More]
LEPC meets and learns of 2016 Airosol Industries fire
The semi-annual meeting of the Linn County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) was held last Thursday with several participants from across the county attending. The LEPC meetings are the fourth Thursday of January and July at various locations across the county. Participants... [More]
Kansas Seniors & Veterans: You Could Pay LESS in Property Taxes
If you’re a Kansas homeowner, you may qualify for a property tax freeze (refund) if you: - Are 65+ years of age OR a 50% or more disabled Veteran - Own... [More]
More More
- Sen. Marshall’s Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act signed into law
- CHC/SEK announces new pharmacy residency program
- Whole Milk for Healthy Kids heads to the President’s desk
- Senator Marshall praises Trump Admin plan to save essential nutrition program
- Rep. Derek Schmidt statement on federal government shutdown
- Senator Marshall releases statement on Democrat Shutdown
- Senators Marshall & Ernst introduce legislation to prevent overregulation of farmers & ranchers
- Legislative Update
NEWS
SEK Mental Health Center and Neosho Memorial launch joint discussions to preserve local care
CHANUTE, KS - Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center (SEKMHC) and Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center (NMRMC) announced that they are working together to explore options to preserve access to local healthcare services for communities across... [More]
SPECIAL: Leonard waives preliminary hearing in Missouri court case
In a hearing held on Wednesday morning, Feb. 4, in the Circuit Court of Bates County, Mo., with Judge Julie Highley-Keutzer presiding, Damon Leonard waived his preliminary hearing in the case filed in connection with the death of a rural Pleasanton youth. Defense attorney... [More]
Deputy Parscale receives award from Sheriffs' Association
Patrol Sgt. Klayton Parscale, a deputy with the Linn County Sheriffs' Office, was nominated by Linn County Sheriff James Akes for an award to be presented at the Kansas Sheriffs' Association Awards Ceremony. It was suggested that the Kansas Sheriffs' Association create a Lifesaving... [More]
More News
- SEKMHC Executive Director suspended by board of trustees
- Pleasanton Council appoints fifth member
- Commissioners take action on P&Z items
- Pleasanton water plant looks at potential $4-$6 million replacement
- La Cygne City Council approves several motions
- Pleasanton employees call out hostility from council
- County commissioners hear request to update FMLA policy
- Pleasanton Council appointment again draws heated discussion
COMMUNITY
PV FFA receives KAAE award
According to their website, one of the goals of the Kansas Association of Agricultural Educators, or KAAE, is to promote and improve the teaching of agriculture in secondary schools and where courses in technical agriculture constitute the principal function, maintain and improve... [More]
Mound City cowboy wins Big in Texas
Mound City bull rider, Colton Byram, emerged as the biggest winner at the PRCA Xtreme “Bulls Night Out” held at the Ft. Worth Stock Show Jan 20-21. The Xtreme Bulls are stand-alone bull riding events held throughout the year and sanctioned by the PRCA with points... [More]
Washburn University Music & Theatre Department to host Piano Day Feb. 14
TOPEKA, KAN. — The Washburn University Music & Theatre Department will host Washburn Piano Day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 14 for K-12 piano students. “As students prepare for spring piano recitals and competitions, Washburn Piano Day gives K-12 piano students... [More]
More Community
- Markley rural Mound City property named as Century Farm
- Carbon Monoxide and what you need to know
- The Power of Hobbies: Why staying engaged matters as we age
- Heartland REC expands Future Foundations Scholarship Program to 12 awards
- Call for Entries: Bourbon County Arts Council Fine Art Exhibit 2026
- Tips for a safe New Year’s Eve
- KIDS CORNER: The stories behind Christmas traditions and symbols
- 2026 Operation Round Up awardees selected; more than $50,000 to be distributed
