DENVER -- It's that time of year to buy Turbo Tax and other tax software problems, but did you know you may be able to get it for free?

The IRS has a program called Free File. Under the program, many companies offer free software for filling out the paperwork and e-filing your federal tax form. Some also offer free state forms as well.

What's the catch? For most of the programs, your adjusted gross income must be $57,000 or less in 2011. The programs only offer the most commonly filed federal tax forms and schedules. They may not have the forms you need, if you have a complicated return.

Personal note, I've used free file for several years and its had the basic 1040 form, schedule A and a couple other forms I've needed, all for free.

Several well known companies are offering free software through the program including H&R Block, TaxSlayer and TurboTax. There are also a dozen of other companies offering tax forms. Each company has different rules. Some have age requirements like you must be under 25 or 70 and older, some require lower adjusted gross incomes.

To look at the options, click here.

Before you buy software to file your Colorado state taxes, you should know the State of Colorado has a way for you to fill out the forms online and file for free. It's called Colorado NetFile. I've used this system for years. I fill out and print my Federal 1040 form then go to Colorado NetFile. It asks for the numbers on certain lines of your 1040 form and your W2, then calculates everything for you.

**One more note. If you choose Turbo Tax, make sure you stay in the free program. If you are offered an upgrade to the Deluxe filing, say no because there is a fee for that program.

If you see a deal, e-mail me Debbie (Debbie@thedenverchannel.com).

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