Breaking Up with TurboTax: How I Used Claude to File My Taxes for Free
Summary
The author documents filing a 2025 federal tax return for free using Claude in combination with IRS Free File Fillable Forms, arguing that Claude can assist with data extraction, form mapping, and error detection, while a human reviewer handles data entry and auditing. The piece compares Claude-based workflows to TurboTax, discusses lobbying and policy context around free filing options, and provides practical tips and a packaged Claude skill to replicate the process. It also covers extensions to Form 1041 for trusts and reflects on the limitations of AI in staying current with IRS forms.