Here's how to file your taxes for free this year
Americans shell out billions of dollars to prepare and file their tax returns. Here's how to do it without spending a dime.
Tax Returns
Tax advantages of couples filing separately
Alicia Jegede, a CPA and founder of New Gen Financial Planning, discussed the potential benefits and drawbacks of married couples filing their taxes separately and jointly.
MoneyWatch: How to not fall behind on paying taxes
What happens if you don't pay your taxes correctly or on time? David Ragland, certified financial planner and CEO of IRC Wealth, joins CBS News' Errol Barnett and Lana Zak with his insight.
IRS says time is running out to claim $1.5 billion in tax refunds
Some households could get a typical refund of almost $1,000 by filing their tax returns for 2019, tax collector says.
Last-minute tax filing tips
The tax deadline is just one week away. Richard Rubin, U.S. tax policy reporter from The Wall Street Journal, joins CBS News to discuss last-minute tips, how the IRS notifies filers of any issues and the status of the IRS' backlog.
Americans facing shrinking tax refunds as inflation remains high
By one estimate, roughly 70% of Americans worry about tax refunds this year, mainly because of expiring pandemic relief programs.
Scammers ramp up activity as tax deadline approaches
Amy Nofiziger, a fraud expert for AARP, says that as the deadline approaches, scammers, "know that we're stressed and that it's going to be easy manipulating us."
Is your state tax-friendly? Here are the most and least taxed.
Differences in local tax rates across the U.S. can add up for those who live in certain states.
Last minute tips for taxpayers
With the April 18 deadline to file taxes fast approaching, the IRS is warning this year's refund check will most likely be less than previous years. David Peters, a financial advisor and CPA, joined CBS News to discuss some last minute tips for those who have yet to file.
Explaining the Child Tax Credit
Pratik Patel, the head of Family Wealth Strategies for BMO Family Office, joins CBS News' Lilia Luciano and Lana Zak to discuss the Child Tax Credit. He explains who qualifies, who doesn't, and how it could impact your tax refund.
Investment strategies for your tax refund
With the tax deadline roughly one month away, it's a good time to think about how to invest your potential tax refund. Dan Geltrude, founder of Geltrude and Co., joined CBS News to discuss investment strategies for maximizing your refund.
How small business owners can save on taxes
Some small business owners could be in for a shock this tax season. Rebecca Walser, a tax attorney and president of Walser Wealth Management, joins CBS News's Elaine Quijano and Jericka Duncan with more.
Here's what to know if you haven't filed your tax return yet
Early IRS data provides a peek at what to expect for the millions of Americans who have yet to file their taxes.
How to do your taxes in 2023 (and get your refund fast)
Here's everything you need to know about filing your federal income taxes in 2023.
How to avoid getting ripped off by your tax preparer
A government watchdog warns that tax pros might not do a better job than you can — and some are straight-up fraudsters.
Who qualifies for the home office deduction on their taxes?
The answer depends on what type of an employee you were last year, according to Julia Glum, a news editor at Money.
Americans may get a tax refund shock this year
Many tax benefits instituted during the pandemic have lapsed, which means some people could see smaller refunds.
Here's how much people are getting for their tax refund
Tax experts and the IRS itself have warned about smaller refund checks this year due to expiring pandemic aid.
IRS: State payments not subject to federal tax
The Internal Revenue Service says it will not be collecting federal taxes against payments issued in several states last year to offset inflation. But, certain requirements are being imposed in some states. Rebecca Walser, president of Walser Wealth Management, joins CBS News' Lilia Luciano and Lana Zak to answer questions about the tax confusion.
IRS tells taxpayers in more than 20 states to wait to file
Tax agency said it is trying to determine whether tax rebates, issued in many states last year, count as income.
IRS says California, most state tax rebates aren't taxable income
The tax agency had previously asked taxpayers in those states to hold off on filing their returns until the issue was resolved.
IRS tells taxpayers in some states to delay filing
The IRS is urging millions of Americans to hold off on filing their tax returns. The agency said it needs to figure out whether special payments sent to taxpayers in multiple states last year, including California, will be subject to federal taxes.
Tips for taxpayers
Monday marked the official start of tax filing season. CBS News reporter Sarah Ewall-Wice joins Lilia Luciano and Lana Zak to outline tips for taxpayers that are being promoted by the Internal Revenue Service.
What Americans need to know about tax season
Americans can now file their tax returns for 2022. CBS MoneyWatch reporter Irina Ivanova joined "CBS News Mornings" to explain what's changed with this tax season and when people can expect to receive their refunds.
Here's when you can start filing your taxes this year
Nation's tax collector says it has improved telephone service from last year, when just 1 in 10 calls were answered.
Live
Trump and Iran issue fresh warnings as standoff continues
As Trump warns Iran to "get smart soon" and make a deal to end the war, an Iranian lawmaker vows Tehran will "never relinquish its control over the Strait of Hormuz."
Blanche denies that Trump directed Comey prosecution: "Of course not"
A grand jury on Tuesday issued the indictment against Comey, alleging that an Instagram post that said "86 47" in seashells was a threat to assassinate Mr. Trump.
Investigation
How a company likened to a sex cult is lobbying Trump for pardons
OneTaste, a company in San Francisco that prosecutors likened to a sex cult, has embarked on a campaign to court allies of President Trump as it seeks pardons for its two convicted leaders, CBS News has learned.
King Charles toasts U.S.-U.K. alliance in state dinner, after rare address to Congress
King Charles attended a state dinner at the White House, after speaking about what he called the "truly unique" relationship between the U.K. and the U.S.
Supreme Court hears arguments over deportation protections for Syrians, Haitians
The Supreme Court is weighing the Trump administration's attempt to rescind Temporary Protected Status for 6,000 Syrian and 350,000 Haitian immigrants.
London mayor laments "shocking antisemitic attacks" as 2 hurt in stabbing
London's mayor says police will increase patrols after an "appalling attack on two Jewish Londoners," amid a "series of shocking antisemitic attacks" in the city.
College students' killings latest case to rely on ChatGPT as evidence
OpenAI boss Sam Altman recently apologized after a teen who went on to kill eight people was banned from ChatGPT for violent activities but police were never alerted.
Exclusive
Trump administration mandates enhanced security checks for immigration applicants
The Trump administration is subjecting broad categories of immigrants applying for green cards and citizenship to enhanced FBI checks, and is pausing some cases while those changes are implemented, according to documents obtained by CBS News.
FCC orders Disney to file for early license renewal after Kimmel clash
The regulatory agency issued the order after President Trump and first lady Melania Trump urged ABC to fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
U.S.
More U.S.
Supreme Court hears arguments over deportation protections for Syrians, Haitians
The Supreme Court is weighing the Trump administration's attempt to rescind Temporary Protected Status for 6,000 Syrian and 350,000 Haitian immigrants.
College students' killings latest case to rely on ChatGPT as evidence
OpenAI boss Sam Altman recently apologized after a teen who went on to kill eight people was banned from ChatGPT for violent activities but police were never alerted.
Search ends for missing crew of U.S. ship that overturned in typhoon
Six people were aboard the 145-foot ship, called the Mariana. Divers recovered one crew member's body from the overturned ship.
Investigation
How a company likened to a sex cult is lobbying Trump for pardons
OneTaste, a company in San Francisco that prosecutors likened to a sex cult, has embarked on a campaign to court allies of President Trump as it seeks pardons for its two convicted leaders, CBS News has learned.
Judge tosses Trump admin. lawsuit seeking access to Arizona voter data
A federal judge on Tuesday dismissed a lawsuit from the Justice Department seeking information on Arizona voters, another defeat in the Trump administration's nationwide push for voter data.
MoneyWatch
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Man takes sister's exhumed body to bank in bid to get to her money
An Indian man dug up his sister's body and carried it to a bank branch to prove she was dead after being refused access to her account without a death certificate, the lender says.
Feds have rejected 15% of businesses' tariff refund claims
But after some early hiccups, the U.S. government's hub for businesses seeking tariff refunds is running smoothly, an expert says.
FCC orders Disney to file for early license renewal after Kimmel clash
The regulatory agency issued the order after President Trump and first lady Melania Trump urged ABC to fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
American Airlines tightens rules for portable chargers amid fire concerns
American Airlines is imposing new rules on portable chargers that passengers can bring on flights. Here's what to know.
Over half of Americans say their finances are worsening, Gallup finds
The impact of higher energy prices and fears about covering monthly bill is taking a toll on public sentiment, a new Gallup poll finds.
Politics
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Blanche denies that Trump directed Comey prosecution: "Of course not"
A grand jury on Tuesday issued the indictment against Comey, alleging that an Instagram post that said "86 47" in seashells was a threat to assassinate Mr. Trump.
Supreme Court hears arguments over deportation protections for Syrians, Haitians
The Supreme Court is weighing the Trump administration's attempt to rescind Temporary Protected Status for 6,000 Syrian and 350,000 Haitian immigrants.
U.S. envoy in Ukraine to step down, but officials say no dispute with Trump
Acting U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Julie Davis is stepping down, but officials deny reports that it follows disagreements with President Trump
Renewal of controversial FISA program in limbo ahead of Thursday deadline
Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is set to expire in two days.
Investigation
How a company likened to a sex cult is lobbying Trump for pardons
OneTaste, a company in San Francisco that prosecutors likened to a sex cult, has embarked on a campaign to court allies of President Trump as it seeks pardons for its two convicted leaders, CBS News has learned.
HealthWatch
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Beyond crisis lines: How broader suicide prevention helps people in need
A new approach to suicide prevention shifts the focus from stopping harm in moments of crisis to upstream policies that give people reasons to live.
Big companies position themselves for payday from $50B federal rural health fund
A $50 billion federal fund is supposed to modernize rural healthcare. But community clinics and advocates fear that the contractors administering the money for states will bite off a big chunk before it reaches patients.
A 13-year-old's kidney was failing. Then a stranger stepped in.
Tim Fitzpatrick, a father of a chronically ill child, saw the story of a boy in need of a new kidney and felt compelled to help.
Ben Sasse is on extended time. He credits "providence, prayer and a miracle drug."
The former U.S. senator from Nebraska opened up about his terminal diagnosis, his family and the state of American politics in a "Things That Matter" town hall.
Exclusive
Johnson & Johnson to launch on TrumpRx with 4 of its prescription drugs
Drug-making giant Johnson & Johnson will officially start marketing four of its medications on the Trump administration's TrumpRx website on Friday, CBS News exclusively learned.
World
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U.S. captures alleged drug kingpin with $10 million bounty on his head
Eugenio Molina-Lopez is accused of heading up a gang that allegedly trafficked U.S.-bound cocaine from South America to Mexican cartels.
U.S. envoy in Ukraine to step down, but officials say no dispute with Trump
Acting U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Julie Davis is stepping down, but officials deny reports that it follows disagreements with President Trump
London mayor laments "shocking antisemitic attacks" as 2 hurt in stabbing
London's mayor says police will increase patrols after an "appalling attack on two Jewish Londoners," amid a "series of shocking antisemitic attacks" in the city.
Tourist dies after being bitten at snake-charming show in Egypt
A snake, reported to be a cobra, crawled into the victim's pants and bit him as he watched a show, police said.
Live
Trump and Iran issue fresh warnings as standoff continues
As Trump warns Iran to "get smart soon" and make a deal to end the war, an Iranian lawmaker vows Tehran will "never relinquish its control over the Strait of Hormuz."
Entertainment
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Entertainment
FCC reviewing ABC licenses amid Kimmel feud
The Federal Communications Commission says it wants the Walt Disney Company to file for early license renewal for its television stations. The announcement comes one day after President Trump and the first lady called on ABC to fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. CBS News legal contributor Rebecca Roiphe joins with analysis.
FCC reviewing Disney licenses over DEI practices
One day after President Trump called on ABC to fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, the FCC said it will begin reviewing eight broadcasting licenses owned or managed by Disney due to the company's diversity policies. CBS News senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe has the latest.
Justin Hartley gives "Tracker" preview
"Tracker" star Justin Hartley reveals how he feels about the upcoming finale of the third season of the show. He also discusses his wife making appearances in the series and the best advice he's received in the industry.
Trump calls for Kimmel to be fired over jokes made before correspondents' dinner
First lady Melania Trump said that jokes Jimmy Kimmel made on his show days before the White House Correspondents' Dinner were "hateful and violent rhetoric."
Eve Plumb reflects on life in the spotlight
Eve Plumb starred as middle child Jan Brady on the classic sitcom "The Brady Bunch." While reflecting on her career, she told "CBS Mornings" the beloved show "put me where I am today." Plumb also addressed "The Brady Bunch" not being an instant hit and why one of her iconic lines bothered her, which she discusses in her new memoir.
Technology
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Technology
Legal battle between Elon Musk and Sam Altman
Elon Musk took the stand Tuesday in a trial against fellow billionaire Sam Altman that could change the future of AI. Musk accused the OpenAI co-founder of lying and stealing, adding that he has "extreme concerns" about AI and who controls it.
College students' killings latest case to rely on ChatGPT as evidence
OpenAI boss Sam Altman recently apologized after a teen who went on to kill eight people was banned from ChatGPT for violent activities but police were never alerted.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Elon Musk testifies in OpenAI trial
Opening statements began on Tuesday in Tesla CEO Elon Musk's lawsuit against OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman. Maxwell Zeff, senior writer at Wired, joins with more.
Jury selection begins in Musk-Altman legal battle
Jury selection began Monday in the legal battle between tech leaders Elon Musk and Sam Altman. CBS News senior business and technology correspondent Jo Ling Kent has the latest.
Science
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Trump administration fires board overseeing National Science Foundation
The Trump administration has fired all 22 current members of an independent board that oversees the National Science Foundation, one dismissed member says.
AI used to reveal face of victim fleeing Mount Vesuvius eruption
Archaeologists found the victim holding a terracotta mortar, which they interpret as an improvised attempt to shield his head.
In a first, endangered orangutan seen using canopy bridge to cross road
Rapid development has been shrinking the jungle habitat of the critically endangered species, and fatal conflicts with people have been increasing.
Saving the Venus fly trap
The carnivorous Venus fly trap is native to the Carolinas, but its population is dwindling due to loss of habitat. Correspondent Seth Doane talks with botanist Julie Moore, who has spent much of her life helping to save these remarkable plants; and with Damon Waitt, director of the North Carolina Botanical Garden, who discusses the unusual traits of a species that Charles Darwin called the most interesting plant in the world.
From 1990: NASA launches Hubble Telescope
On April 24, 1990, NASA launched the Hubble Space Telescope from the Space Shuttle Discovery after seven years of delays. Watch CBS News' coverage from that day.
Crime
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Crime
James Comey reacts to second indictment
Former FBI Director James Comey is facing a second Justice Department indictment. CBS News' Katrina Kaufman has more.
U.S. captures alleged drug kingpin with $10 million bounty on his head
Eugenio Molina-Lopez is accused of heading up a gang that allegedly trafficked U.S.-bound cocaine from South America to Mexican cartels.
College students' killings latest case to rely on ChatGPT as evidence
OpenAI boss Sam Altman recently apologized after a teen who went on to kill eight people was banned from ChatGPT for violent activities but police were never alerted.
London mayor laments "shocking antisemitic attacks" as 2 hurt in stabbing
London's mayor says police will increase patrols after an "appalling attack on two Jewish Londoners," amid a "series of shocking antisemitic attacks" in the city.
Correspondents' dinner suspect's devices probed
The man accused of trying to assassinate President Trump at the White House Correspondents' Dinner over the weekend is set to be back in court on Thursday. Nicole Sganga reports.
Space
More Space
Mars rover carries out chemistry experiment never done beyond Earth
"This experiment's never been run before on another world," said Amy Williams, an astrobiologist working on the Curiosity mission.
Blue Origin New Glenn rocket puts satellite payload into wrong orbit
The launching appeared to go off without a hitch, but a problem prevented the rocket's upper stage from putting its payload into the correct orbit.
Artemis II crew on historic moon mission and what it means for Earth
"We are carrying back everything we learned, not only about where we went but ourselves," mission specialist Christina Koch told "CBS Evening News" anchor Tony Dokoupil.
Artemis II astronauts still awed by moonshot experience: "It was otherworldly"
The four Artemis II astronauts struggled to describe the view and overall experience of flying around the moon's far side and witnessing a solar eclipse in deep space.
"God of chaos" asteroid will pass close to Earth in 3 years, NASA says
People on the ground in the Eastern Hemisphere will be able to observe the asteroid with their own eyes, weather permitting, according to NASA.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Legal battle between Elon Musk and Sam Altman
Elon Musk took the stand Tuesday in a trial against fellow billionaire Sam Altman that could change the future of AI. Musk accused the OpenAI co-founder of lying and stealing, adding that he has "extreme concerns" about AI and who controls it.
James Comey reacts to second indictment
Former FBI Director James Comey is facing a second Justice Department indictment. CBS News' Katrina Kaufman has more.
Camp Mystic director addresses deadly flood
In front of a state committee investigating last year's deadly floods, Camp Mystic director Edward Eastland addressed parents of the victims, telling them he had failed them. Jason Allen reports.
King Charles makes address to Congress
In an address to a joint session of Congress, King Charles hinted at recent tension between the U.S. and U.K. over the war with Iran and trade. The king said, "whatever our differences, whatever disagreements we may have, we stand united in our commitment to uphold democracy." Nancy Cordes has more.
Todd Blanche on Comey indictment
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche spoke exclusively with "CBS Mornings" on Wednesday, addressing the Justice Department's second indictment of former FBI Director James Comey over a an Instagram post from Comey that showed seashells arranged in the sand to form the numbers "86 47." Blanche said President Trump didn't direct him to pursue the case. In a video message, Comey denied that he was threatening the president.