Most taxpayers can file online for free using Free File at IRS.gov.

The brandname tax software is available for free through this program to those who earned less than $57,000 last year.

For those who earned more, there also are free online forms.

Both options allow people to file returns electronically and use direct deposit to receive refunds.

Each company that has partnered with the IRS sets its own eligibility criteria, which may include income, state residency, age, military service or eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit.

The software asks questions and based on your answers picks the right forms, does the math and helps you find all the tax benefits for which you are eligible.