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The IRS Free File service provides free federal income tax return preparation and electronic filing for all taxpayers. All you need is access to a computer and the Internet and you can prepare and e-file your federal tax return for free.

Free File is offered through a partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a group of private-sector tax software companies. Since Free File’s debut in 2003, more than 27 million returns have been prepared and e-filed through this program.

Free File offers two options. The first is Traditional Free File, which includes approximately 20 tax preparation software products from which to choose. Taxpayers with 2012 incomes of $57,000 or less are eligible for this service. The second option is Free File Fillable Forms, which is an electronic version of IRS paper forms. All taxpayers can use Free File Fillable Forms to prepare and file tax forms electronically.

Use the following steps to file your return through IRS Free File:

1. Step 1. Get Started. Access IRS.gov and click the Free File logo or go to www.irs.gov/freefile. You must access Free File companies through the official IRS Web site to qualify for the free service.

2. Step 2. Determine Your Eligibility. If your 2012 income was $57,000 or less, you’re eligible for Traditional Free File’s easy-to-use, step-by-step software. If your income was higher, you are eligible for Free File Fillable Forms.

3. Step 3. Link to Free File Company Service. If you opt for Traditional Free File, you can choose one of the approximate 20 offerings by reviewing which one fits your situation. You can click "I Will Choose A Free File Company" or "Help Me Find A Free File Company." To get started with Free File Fillable Forms, just click the "Choose Free File Fillable Forms" button.

4. Step 4. Prepare and e-file your Federal Income Tax Return. Either Traditional Free File or Free File Fillable Forms will allow you to file your return electronically, for free.

Both the fillable-forms option and the "full service" Free File offerings are only available through IRS.gov. Whether you are new to Free File or a returning taxpayer, you must access Free File through IRS.gov; otherwise, the provider may charge a fee.