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New Member
posted Dec 20, 2020 10:29:50 AM

Do students in college get to do their tax returns for free?

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2 Replies
Level 15
Dec 20, 2020 10:47:24 AM

Being a college student does not necessarily mean you will be able to use the TurboTax Free edition.  The Free edition is for very basic tax returns and only supports the Form 1040.  If other forms or schedules are necessary the Free edition cannot be used.

 

However, there is a TurboTax Free File Program edition which may be used, if eligible.  Available in mid-January.

IRS Free File Program - https://apps.irs.gov/app/freeFile/
If you are eligible you can use the IRS Free File Program delivered by TurboTax which is free to file both a federal and state tax return. The IRS Free File Program delivered by TurboTax edition is a full featured personal tax program and on a separate website from the TurboTax online editions.

 

To qualify for free 2020 federal and state tax returns with the IRS Free File Program delivered by TurboTax, you'll need to meet at least one of these requirements:

  • A maximum 2020 adjusted gross income (AGI) of $39,000; or
  • You qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC); or
  • You served as active duty military (including Reservists and National Guard) with a maximum 2020 AGI of $72,000 (you'll also need a military-issued W-2).

 

See this TurboTax support FAQ on the Free File Program - https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/choosing-a-product/help/what-is-the-turbotax-free-file-program/00/25887

See this TurboTax support FAQ for the difference between the Free File Progam and the Free edition - https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/choosing-a-product/help/what-s-the-difference-between-free-file-program-and-free-edition/00/26377
And see this TurboTax support FAQ on how to switch to the TurboTax Free File Program - https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/downgrading/help/how-do-i-switch-to-turbotax-free-file-program/00/26264

Level 15
Dec 20, 2020 10:49:40 AM

Only if you qualify.  Being a student does not automatically qualify you.  Only if you have a very simple return.  

 

There are 2 different Free versions.  Turbo Tax Free Edition and the IRS Free File website.  If you don't qualify for the Free File website you might be able to use Turbo Tax Free Edition.  Although the Free Edition is limited in other ways.  The IRS Free File website won't open until later.

 

In order to use the IRS Free File program, you have to start it at a special website.  Click on Sign in at the top right.  It may let you continue your return so you don't have to start over.

https://freefile.intuit.com/