The IRS has expanded its direct file program to 12 more states, meaning residents in 24 states can now file their federal taxes for free directly with the IRS — no third-party software required. In addition, it has expanded the existing Direct File program to more customers.
Last week, the IRS announced the inclusion of Alaska, Connecticut, Idaho, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin in 2024. Twelve states participated in last year’s pilot program and are still eligible this year: Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington State, and Wyoming.
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You will need to file your state taxes with a different service, but in many cases, IRS Direct File can transfer your information straight into your state-provided online tax filing software.
States can still join Direct File in 2025, the IRS says, and several states have expressed interest or announced that they will participate in Direct File in 2026.
The free filing service will also cover more tax situations in 2025, meaning more customers can use it. Last tax season, the program covered limited situations: W-2 and Social Security income, unemployment compensation and certain credits and deductions. For 2025, Direct File will support 1099s for interest income greater than $1,500, retirement income and the 1099 for Alaska residents reporting the Alaska Permanent Fund dividend.
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Also, during last year’s pilot, Direct File supported taxpayers in claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, or Credit for Other Dependents. This year, Direct File will also cover the Child and Dependent Care Credit, Premium Tax Credit, Credit for the Elderly and Disabled, and Retirement Savings Contribution Credits.
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This year’s version adds coverage for filers who take advantage of deductions for student loan interest, educator expenses, and Health Savings Accounts.
The IRS says it will gradually expand Direct File’s scope to support most common tax situations, particularly those that impact working families.
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From January to March of last year, more than 140,000 people used the program.
If you’ve ever used software like TurboTax or H&R Block to file your taxes, you’ll be familiar with IRS Direct File. You answer basic questions about your income and tax situation, and then you submit your taxes electronically.
The IRS has an eligibility checker to see if your situation allows you to use the service.
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Source: Robotics - zdnet.com
