The United States makes tax returns stressful and expensive thanks to greed, tax lobbying, and basically the idea that nothing is free (fun stuff!). However, there is a little glimmer of hope as the IRS does Direct fileits free digital tool announced at the end of 2023, permanent. The US Ministry of Finance reported on thisThe Direct File pilot program saved 140,000 individuals nearly $5.6 million for the 2024 tax session.
Not only is the program here to stay (at least with the current government), but its reach is expanding. Taxpayers in 12 states can use it Direct file this year, but the tool will be available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., starting with the 2025 filing season. The Treasury says Direct File users like the tool, with 90 percent of the 11,000 taxpayers surveyed rating the system “excellent” or “above average.”
Right now, free TurboTax alternative it only works for taxpayers with simple documents like a W-2 or standard deduction. However, the Treasury plans to “broaden the scope and scope of the tax” it offers in the coming years. Despite this expansion, willingness to participate in the program will depend on states.
