How can I file my 2022 W-2s online for free as a first-time filer?

Does the free file program still work for 2022 taxes though? I thought those programs were only for current year filings. Also, is there a penalty for filing this late?

Yes, the Free File program works for prior year returns including 2022. You can still access the 2022 tax year versions of these software programs. Some providers maintain free access to prior year versions, though you may need to search specifically for "2022 tax filing" on their sites. The penalty question depends on your situation. If you're owed a refund, there's no penalty for filing late - but you generally only have three years to claim your refund before you lose it. If you owe taxes, there are failure-to-file penalties (5% per month up to 25% of unpaid tax) and failure-to-pay penalties (0.5% per month) plus interest. However, if your income was low enough, you might not owe anything, which means no penalties would apply.

How accurate is this thing? I've tried "free" tax help before and ended up getting hit with fees at the last minute. Does it actually connect to official filing services or is it just information?

I'm kind of suspicious of any tax service that claims to be helpful... do they sell your information? This sounds too good to be true. How does this actually make money if they're helping for free?

The accuracy is really good - it uses the same type of document scanning technology that professional tax offices use. It doesn't make mistakes on the numbers because it's just reading what's already on your W-2. The difference is it explains things in plain English instead of tax language. It doesn't file your taxes directly - it helps you understand your tax documents and then guides you to official IRS Free File partners where you can file yourself. They have partnerships with some of the filing services, but they specifically show you the truly free options. I was skeptical too until I tried it. They make money through their premium features for people with more complex tax situations, but the basic document analysis for simple W-2 returns is accessible without paying.

Wait, I'm confused. How does this actually work? Is it an app that somehow gets priority in the IRS phone queue? That doesn't make sense to me.

This sounds like complete BS. There's no way to skip the IRS phone queue - everyone has to wait. They're probably just charging you to call the same number you could call yourself. Total scam.

It's not an app that gets priority in the queue. What it does is use automated technology to call the IRS and wait on hold so you don't have to. They basically have systems that can stay on hold for hours, and then when an actual human IRS agent picks up, their system automatically calls your phone and connects you directly to that agent who's already on the line. They don't skip the queue at all - they're just waiting in it for you. Think of it like having someone stand in line at the DMV for you, and then they text when they're almost at the front so you can come take their place. I was skeptical too, but it legitimately works. The time savings was worth it because I had already wasted hours trying to get through myself.

Do you know if VITA can handle returns from 2022? And would they help even now since it's not tax season? I'd definitely prefer having someone knowledgeable walk me through it step by step.

VITA can definitely handle 2022 returns. While many VITA sites operate primarily during the regular tax season (January through April), some locations offer year-round assistance specifically for prior year returns. Your best bet is to call your local library or search for "VITA tax sites" in your area to check availability. Even outside regular tax season, many VITA volunteers are willing to help with prior year returns because they understand situations like yours are common. Just be sure to bring all your documents (W-2s, identification, social security card) when you go. The service is completely free for basic returns, and they're specifically trained to help people who are filing for the first time or have simple tax situations.

Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax) is completely free for federal and state returns, but there's a catch for prior year returns. They typically only support the current tax year and maybe the year before. For 2022 returns in 2025, you'll probably need to use one of the IRS Free File options instead.