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Best Free Tax Filing Options for Military Members: MilTax and VITA

Free ways for service members, spouses, and recent veterans to file taxes: MilTax from Military OneSource, who's eligible, what it covers, and in-person help through VITA.

By , disabled U.S. Coast Guard veteran
Last reviewed

Not tax advice. Educational only. For your own situation, talk to a MilTax consultant or a qualified tax professional.

Paying to file a military tax return usually isn't necessary. The best free option for most service members is one the Department of Defense already offers.

1. MilTax (Military OneSource): the default choice

Per Military OneSource, MilTax offers free tax software built for military life, plus free one-on-one help from tax consultants.

  • Who's eligible: active-duty service members, eligible family members, survivors, and recent veterans up to 365 days after separation or retirement. Eligibility is checked through DEERS.
  • What's included: a federal return and up to five state returns at no charge. That matters if you PCS'd across state lines.
  • Help with military issues: consultants can answer questions about the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act, moving deductions, and combat pay exclusions.
  • When: Military OneSource says the software for this filing season opens in January 2027. You can sign up on its site to be notified.
  • Phone: consultants are reachable at 800-342-9647.

Veterans out more than a year: MilTax eligibility ends 365 days after you separate. Option 2 below is the next stop.

2. VITA: free in-person help

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax prep for qualifying taxpayers. Military OneSource also points users to VITA for in-person support. Check the IRS VITA page for the current income limit and locations.

Before you file

The IRS has a tax page for military members. It covers combat zone exclusions, filing extensions, and moving rules. Read it before you file. If you separated this year, have your W-2s from DFAS (or Coast Guard pay) and any civilian employer ready.

Sources

  1. Military OneSource, MilTax: Free Software & Support (accessed November 2, 2026)
  2. IRS, Free tax return preparation for qualifying taxpayers (VITA) (accessed November 2, 2026)
  3. IRS, Tax information for members of the military (accessed November 2, 2026)