Preparing for the 2025 tax filing season saw the government run a pilot test on the IRS Direct File Program. The test’s success has now provided the chance for residents of various states to file their taxes for free.
The pilot test saw 12 states out of the 50 take part. After recording success, the program will now be available in all states.
What is the IRS Direct File?
- The Direct File is a new free tax tool used to file federal taxes directly with the IRS. This can be done online for free.
- It is important to note that while it is available for all taxpayers, the program is not compulsory.
- The website has been made available in two languages. These languages are English and Spanish.
- The website is also accessible through various internet devices. The devices are a smartphone, a laptop, a tablet, or a desktop computer.
Which states have adopted the IRS Direct File system?
The state of Pennsylvania has decided to participate in the Direct File program; this will allow its residents to file their taxes freely on the IRS website.
While the IRS and the Treasury Department have extended the program to all 50 states of the US, the following states have adopted it:
- New York
- Massachusetts
- Arizona
- California
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- Florida
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Washington
- Wyoming
- Pennsylvania.
The state of Virginia rejects the program
While the government has made the program available for all states, some have rejected it. One such is the state of Virginia. The decision was made because the cost of implementation would be too much. The governor also cited “substantial legal questions about the new IRS program.”
The state’s decision was made known through a letter released in response to the offer.
As a result, the residents of Arizona know for certain that the Direct File program will not be available to them.
Users response to the Direct File System
In a survey conducted by the General Services Administration Touchpoint, the IRS collected comprehensive feedback regarding the program. The responses collected from 15,000 people resulted in the statistics below:
- 90% of respondents said their experience was excellent or above average.
- The Direct File System’s ease of use, trustworthiness, and the fact that it is free was particularly liked by many respondents.
- 86% of users said the Direct File System increased their trust in the IRS.
- 90% rated the customer support experience as excellent or above average.
With the IRs offering all 50 states in the US the chance to use the Direct File system, it is left to see which states accept or reject it.
