MilTax: free tax software and expert help for the military
MilTax is the Department of Defense's free tax service, offered through Military OneSource. It includes software made for military life and free consultations with tax experts, for active-duty service members, eligible family members, survivors, and recent veterans up to 365 days after separation or retirement.
Go to MilTax (Military OneSource)
Check if you qualify (5 questions)Free if you qualify. Eligibility checked on Military OneSource in October 2026.
Who qualifies
- Active-duty service members.
- Eligible family members and survivors.
- Veterans up to 365 days after separation or retirement.
- The software files a federal return and up to three state returns for free.
Who it is not for
- Veterans more than a year past separation (try VITA, TCE or IRS Free File instead).
- Anyone who cannot verify eligibility through Military OneSource.
How to get started
- Go to MilTax on Military OneSource and verify your eligibility.
- Use the software, or book a free consultation with a tax expert.
- Some installations also host free VITA sites during the season. Ask your installation legal office.
Common questions
Who can use MilTax?
MilTax is free for active-duty service members, eligible family members, survivors, and recent veterans up to 365 days after separation or retirement.
Does MilTax include state returns?
Yes. The software lets you file a federal return and up to three state returns for free.
Is MilTax only software?
No. You can also talk to a tax expert for free by phone or chat.
If this program does not fit
Other free programs may still work for you:
VITA
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Income about $70,244 or less Free if you qualifyTCE
Tax Counseling for the Elderly Age 60 or older Free if you qualifyAARP Foundation Tax-Aide
Free volunteer tax help from AARP Foundation Over 50, low to moderate income Free if you qualifyIRS Free File
Free guided tax software from IRS partner companies AGI $89,000 or less (tax year 2025) Free federal return if you qualify; state may cost extraFree File Fillable Forms
Free IRS forms you fill in online, any income Any income, confident with forms Free (federal only)MyFreeTaxes
United Way's free tax software and VITA help Income under $89,000 Free if you qualify, federal and statePrefer a paid pro?
If no free program fits, or you have an IRS notice or tax debt, our partner Pack Tax prepares returns and handles IRS problems for clients in every state by phone and video.
This is paid help, not a free program. You can ask questions before you agree to anything.
Ask Pack Tax for helpPack Tax is our paid partner; we may receive a fee for referrals. How this works
Sources
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.