Self-employed or gig work: is free tax filing possible?

The honest answer: usually not with a volunteer, sometimes with software. If you drive, deliver, freelance or run a small business, your return includes Schedule C and self-employment tax, which most free programs limit.

What can be free

• MyFreeTaxes self-file: includes self-employment (1099) income, federal and state, if your income is under $89,000.
• Free File Fillable Forms: free at any income if you can fill in Schedule C and Schedule SE yourself. No state return.
• VITA: simple self-employment income only, if you make about $70,244 or less.
• IRS Free File: some partners support Schedule C. Check each partner's rules (AGI $89,000 or less).

What free volunteers will not do

• A business that shows a loss
• Depreciation (for example, a vehicle or equipment you depreciate)
• Business use of your home
• Several years of unfiled self-employment returns

Volunteers prepare basic returns. Returns with a business loss on Schedule C, depreciation, business use of home, and most rental property are outside what VITA and TCE volunteers prepare. Services vary by site.

When paid help makes sense

If you have expenses to sort out, a loss, back returns, or a bill from the IRS for self-employment tax, a paid preparer is often worth it. Ask about the fee up front and make sure they sign your return as the preparer.