Free State Tax Filing Options 2026
Updated 27 March 2026
Free federal filing is well known, but many people are surprised to discover they have been paying $20 to $50 for state filing when free options exist. Here is a state-by-state guide to your best options.
The Simplest Rule: Use Cash App Taxes
If your return is not highly complex, Cash App Taxes is the easiest path to free federal and state filing regardless of your state. It supports most common schedules including Schedule C, D, and E. There is no income limit. The only trade-off is that it does not support multi-state filing.
Free State Filing Options by State
| State | Free Option | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | CalFile (free direct e-file) | Free | CA Franchise Tax Board direct filing |
| New York | NY Free File (IRS partner route) | Free | Access via irs.gov/freefile |
| Texas | No state income tax | N/A | No state return required |
| Florida | No state income tax | N/A | No state return required |
| Illinois | MyTax Illinois (direct file) | Free | IDOR direct e-file portal |
| Pennsylvania | myPATH (direct file) | Free | PA Department of Revenue portal |
| Ohio | Ohio I-File | Free | Ohio Department of Taxation portal |
| Michigan | Michigan Treasury Online | Free | MI direct e-file |
| Georgia | Georgia Tax Center | Free | GA DOR direct file |
| Washington | No state income tax | N/A | No state return required |
| Nevada | No state income tax | N/A | No state return required |
| All other states | Cash App Taxes or IRS Free File partner | Free (via Cash App) | Cash App Taxes includes free state filing for all supported states |
States with No Income Tax
If you live in one of these nine states, you do not need to file a state income tax return at all:
New Hampshire taxes interest and dividend income only; most residents owe nothing. Tennessee phased out its Hall income tax fully in 2021.
IRS Direct File Program
The IRS launched its own Direct File pilot in 2024 and expanded it significantly in 2025. For 2026, Direct File is available in over 25 states and covers W-2 income, Social Security, unemployment, and basic credits. If it is available in your state and your return is straightforward, it is the most direct route to a completely free federal and state filing experience without involving a third party.
Avoiding Surprise State Filing Fees
Always check the state filing cost before you start, not after you have entered all your data.
TurboTax and H&R Block often show state filing as free at the start but charge after you pass certain points.
FreeTaxUSA is transparent about its $14.99 state fee upfront, which is among the lowest paid state options.
If you used a paid product last year, switching to Cash App Taxes or a state-specific portal this year can save $30 to $60.