Starting in January, there’ll be a new, free option for Arizonans to file their federal income taxes with the IRS — an alternative to paying for software developed by companies like TurboTax and H&R Block.

Arizona is one of four states working with the IRS to integrate state income tax filings into the pilot program as well.

Rebecca Wilder with the Arizona Department of Revenue said that’ll be done through a website and mobile app.

“We’re working to build a system for Arizona to help make it a seamless process,” she said, “[so] that once you file your federal taxes you would be able to opt in and then go ahead and e-file your Arizona taxes.”

Wilder said the new online option is easier, faster, and more secure than paper.

More information will be available closer to the start of tax filing season next year.

The scope for eligibility is still being finalized and may change, but the IRS currently expects it to include:

Income reporting

• W-2 wage income
• Social Security and railroad retirement income
• Unemployment compensation
• Interest of $1,500 or less

Credits

• Earned Income Tax Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Credit for Other Dependents

Deductions

• Standard deduction
• Student loan interest
• Educator expenses

More information can be found at irs.gov/about-irs/strategic-plan/direct-file.