I.R.S. Suspends Free Online Offering to File Taxes Directly
So, the IRS has decided to suspend its free online tax filing service, a move that’s stirring up a lot of frustration and, frankly, a bit of outrage. It seems the service, which allowed taxpayers to file directly with the government without paying for third-party software, won’t be available for the 2025 tax season. The general sentiment is that this is a step backward, and it’s not hard to see why.
Many people are questioning the timing and the reasons behind this decision. There’s a palpable sense that the interests of big tax software companies like TurboTax and H&R Block are being prioritized over the needs of average taxpayers.… Continue reading
Despite Treasury Secretary Bessent’s initial commitment, the IRS Direct File program, a free online tax filing system, will be eliminated. The program, lauded for its ease of use and high user satisfaction rates, had successfully processed over 140,000 returns in its pilot year, saving taxpayers millions in filing fees. However, political opposition and the shutdown of the 18F development team contributed to its demise, leaving taxpayers to utilize alternative, potentially costly, filing methods in the future. The decision has drawn criticism for undermining public trust and access to essential government services.
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The Trump administration plans to eliminate the IRS’s Direct File program, a free electronic tax filing system, despite its ease of use and cost savings for taxpayers. Republican lawmakers and tax preparation companies criticized the program’s cost and effectiveness, while supporters argued its termination prevents taxpayers from accessing a vital free service and benefits large tax preparation companies. The program’s future was solidified when IRS staff were instructed to halt development, following earlier concerns about the program’s cost and low completion rate. This decision has been met with considerable opposition from various stakeholders.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker