IRS Free File Program Extended for Five More Years
Background and Importance
The IRS Free File program, which has been available for over two decades, will continue for another five years. This initiative aims to provide free tax filing services to eligible taxpayers, ensuring that low-income Americans have access to necessary resources.
“Cheated millions of low-income Americans out of free tax filing services,”
said New York Attorney General Letitia James, highlighting the importance of transparency in tax preparation services.
Eligibility and Access
For the 2023 tax season, taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $79,000 or less can access online guided tax software through the Free File program. Those with an AGI above $79,000 can utilize the IRS’s Free File Fillable Forms.
Participating Partners
This year, the IRS has partnered with several tax preparation services to offer free filing options. These partners include:
- 1040Now
- Drake (1040.com)
- ezTaxReturn.com
- FileYourTaxes.com
- On-Line Taxes
- TaxAct
- TaxHawk (FreeTaxUSA)
- TaxSlayer
Usage Statistics
In 2024, the IRS received approximately 2.9 million tax returns through the Free File program, an increase from the 2.7 million returns received at the same time the previous year.
New Initiatives
Alongside the Free File program, the IRS has begun testing its Direct File service this tax season. This new program allows taxpayers to file their taxes for free directly through the IRS, providing an additional option for those seeking cost-free tax preparation services.
1 Comment
That’s great news for taxpayers!