Free File Alliance Announces 2010 Return Preparation Program

"The Free File Alliance is proud to give 98 million Americans free access to online tax preparation software and the step-by-step support they need to complete, prepare and e-file federal tax returns," said Tim Hugo, executive director of the Free File Alliance. "Our goal is for every American making $57,000 or less to visit IRS.gov and join more than 25 million Americans who have already used Free File since it began in 2003."

The Free File program is available on the IRS website, www.IRS.gov. By clicking on the "Free File" icon or link, users will find a list of Free File Alliance member companies and can choose the one that fits their needs. Taxpayers are then transferred to the company's website to prepare, complete and electronically file their federal income tax returns, just as they would on paper. Three of the 19 participating software companies now offer services in Spanish.

"The Free File program walks taxpayers through the filing process to make it quick, easy and secure," said Hugo. "Free File software increases accuracy and delivers refunds in as little as 10 days. Taxpayers can also rest assured that all information is safely and securely delivered to the IRS."

Free File Alliance member companies have continually worked with the IRS to strengthen Free File program, and taxpayers have consistently reported that it is user-friendly and efficient. Responding to an IRS survey about last year's program, 96 percent of users said they found Free File easy to use, while 98 percent said they would recommend the program to others.

About the Free File Alliance

The Free File Alliance, a coalition of 19 industry-leading tax software companies, has partnered with the IRS since 2003 to help low-and middle-income Americans prepare, complete and e-file their federal tax returns online. The Free File Alliance is committed to giving 70 percent of Americans free access to the industry's top online tax preparation software. More than 25 million returns have been filed through the Free File program over the past seven years. For more information, visit www.freefilealliance.org.