TurboTax Free in 2025: What They Don’t Tell You Until You File

Every tax season in the U.S., millions of people search for the same thing: “Is TurboTax really free?” If you’re filing your taxes in 2025, chances are you’ve seen TurboTax’s ads promising “Free Edition” and wondered whether it’s actually free—or if there’s a catch.

The truth is a little complicated. While TurboTax does offer a free version, it’s only free for certain taxpayers and situations. Let’s break it down so you know what to expect before you start entering all your tax info.

What Does TurboTax Free Edition Actually Cover?

TurboTax Free Edition is meant for simple tax returns. In 2025, that typically includes:

• Filing a Form 1040 with limited situations

• Claiming W-2 income (from a job)

• Taking the standard deduction

• Claiming common tax credits like Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC)

If you fall under these categories, TurboTax Free Edition can work perfectly—and yes, it’s truly free.

When TurboTax Isn’t Free

Here’s where many people get surprised. TurboTax starts charging when your return gets more complex. For example, you may have to upgrade to a paid version if you need:

• To file itemized deductions (medical expenses, mortgage interest, etc.)

• To report freelance or gig income (like Uber, DoorDash, or freelance work)

• To file investment income (stocks, crypto, dividends)

• To report rental property income

• To file state tax returns in certain situations

That’s why many taxpayers feel misled—because they start with the Free Edition but later realize they must upgrade.

TurboTax’s “Free File” vs “Free Edition”: Not the Same

Here’s where it gets tricky. The IRS partners with several tax software companies to offer IRS Free File, which is a completely free way to file federal taxes if your income is under a certain limit (for 2025, it’s about $79,000).

TurboTax used to participate in IRS Free File, but it no longer does. Instead, it promotes its Free Edition, which is not the same as the IRS program.

👉 Bottom line: If your tax situation qualifies for IRS Free File, you might save money by going through other providers like FreeTaxUSA or TaxAct.

How Much Does TurboTax Cost in 2025?

If you don’t qualify for the Free Edition, TurboTax’s prices in 2025 generally look like this (though they may change as tax season goes on):

• Deluxe: Around $69 federal + extra for state filing

• Premier: Around $99 federal + extra for state filing

• Self-Employed: Around $129 federal + extra for state filing

Add-ons like live CPA help or state returns can increase costs even more.

So while the Free Edition is free for simple filers, many taxpayers end up paying at least $69 or more.

Why So Many People Ask: “Is TurboTax Really Free?”

The reason this question comes up every year is marketing. TurboTax runs ads across TV, YouTube, and social media promising “Free, Free, Free”. And yes—it is free for some filers. But the majority of U.S. taxpayers have more complex returns, so they often get bumped into paid versions.

It’s not necessarily a scam, but it does cause confusion. That’s why reading the fine print before starting is important.

Who Should Use TurboTax Free Edition in 2025?

TurboTax Free Edition is a great fit if:

• You’re single or married filing jointly with just W-2 income

• You don’t own a house or have major deductions

• You don’t trade stocks or crypto

• You don’t freelance or own a business

If that describes you, TurboTax Free Edition could save you money compared to hiring a CPA or buying another software.

Alternatives to TurboTax Free Edition

If you want to make sure your filing stays free, here are a few good alternatives in 2025:

• IRS Free File – For incomes under ~$79,000

• Cash App Taxes – Free federal and state filing

• H&R Block Free Online – Covers slightly more tax situations than TurboTax Free

• FreeTaxUSA – Free federal filing (state is extra)

These options may offer more flexibility without surprise fees.

FAQs – Answering What Americans Are Searching

Q: Is TurboTax really free for everyone?
No, it’s only free for simple tax returns. Most people with side gigs, investments, or deductions will have to pay.

Q: When is TurboTax free in 2025?
It’s free if you qualify for the Free Edition, mainly for W-2 income and simple returns.

Q: Does TurboTax free include state taxes?
Sometimes, but often state filing costs extra. Be sure to check before submitting.

Q: What’s the difference between TurboTax Free Edition and IRS Free File?
IRS Free File is a government-backed program for low-to-middle-income taxpayers. TurboTax Free Edition is Intuit’s product and has more restrictions.

Final Word

So, is TurboTax really free in 2025? The short answer: Yes—but only for simple returns.

If your tax situation is more complicated (self-employed, investments, or itemizing), expect to pay for an upgrade. To avoid surprises, check out IRS Free File or alternatives before committing.

At the end of the day, TurboTax remains one of the easiest platforms to use. But free isn’t always free for everyone—and knowing that before you start can save you time, money, and frustration.