Free tax filing for military families
MilTax is the Department of Defense's free tax service. It covers active-duty service members, eligible family members, survivors, and recent veterans up to 365 days after separation or retirement. It includes a federal return and up to three state returns and free expert consultations.
Your free options
- MilTax: software built for military life (moves, deployments, multiple states) plus free tax consultants.
- VITA sites on base: some installations host free VITA sites during the season. Ask your installation's legal office or use the IRS VITA locator.
- IRS Free File: AGI $89,000 or less (tax year 2025); some partners have military rules.
- Fillable Forms: any income, federal only.
Common questions
Is tax filing free for the military?
Yes, for people who qualify. MilTax is free for active-duty service members, eligible family members, survivors, and recent veterans up to 365 days after separation or retirement, and it files a federal return and up to three state returns.
I left the military more than a year ago. What can I use?
MilTax eligibility ends 365 days after separation or retirement. After that, look at VITA, IRS Free File or MyFreeTaxes, depending on your income.
Can IRS Free File help military members?
Some Free File partners have special rules for military members. The guided software AGI limit is $89,000 or less for tax year 2025.
Sources
- Military OneSource: MilTax
- IRS Tax Tip 2026-08
- IRS: Free tax return preparation for qualifying taxpayers
- IRS Free File: do your taxes for free
Facts on this page were checked against these sources on October 8, 2026. Rules change each year; confirm with the official source before you file.