IRS Free File Available Through October 17

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—— IRS Free File Available Through October 17 (NAPSA)—Still putting off your taxes? You can do it now or you can do it later because IRS Free File, the free way everyone can do their federal taxes, will be available around the clock through October 17. Can’t make the April 18 tax deadline? Use Free File to file a six-month extension. Then, just return to Free File anytime before October 17 to prepare ande-file your tax return. IRS Free File is made possible through the Free File Alliance, a public-private partnership between the IRS and approximately 20 of the leading tax software companies. There are Spanish options. And some offer state tax returnsfor free. Taxpayers have two Free File options, depending on their income: brand-namesoftware or online fillable forms. Seventy percent of taxpayers qualify for Free File software with incomes of $58,000 or less. Taxpayers who earn more or who are experienced preparing their returns can opt for Free File Fillable Forms. Free File is offered exclusively through the IRS. Regardless of income, all taxpayers can use Free File software to submit Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. But remember, an exten- sion to file is not an extension to pay any taxes owed. Paymentis due on April 18. If you have specific tax ques- tions or a specific tax issue, you can contact the IRS directly. Learn more at www.IRS.gov/contact. Everyone can use IRS Free File to prepare and e-file tax returns for free. Here are some additional things to keep in mind as you prepare yourtaxes: * You don’t need to be a tax expert to use IRS Free File. The software does all the hard work— finding the right tax forms, completing the math and making sure individuals get the tax breaks they deserve, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit. * You should submit a tax return or an extension even if you cannot make your tax payment to avoid a failure-to-file penalty. If you cannot make the payment on taxes owed, pay as much as you can and then contact the IRS for other options, such as an installmentplan. Free File is safe and secure. More than 30 million tax returns have been prepared with Free File since the program began in 2008. To learn more, visit www. freefile.irs. gov.