The term denotes digital applications designed to assist individuals in preparing and filing their income tax returns without incurring a fee for the software’s use. These applications often provide guided interfaces and calculations to simplify the tax preparation process. As an example, an individual with a simple tax situation, such as wage income and standard deductions, might utilize this category of software to complete their tax return.
Accessibility to such tools offers several key advantages. It can reduce the financial burden associated with tax preparation, especially for low-income filers. Furthermore, it can empower individuals to manage their own tax obligations, increasing their understanding of tax laws and deductions. Historically, the availability of no-cost options has been driven by government initiatives and software providers seeking to expand their user base.
