The agency still offers a Free File program that works with commercial tax software firms. Some companies also offer free tools for certain filers.

IRS Direct File, which was offered in 25 states last year, has been discontinued. But one very-much underused, free program remains for 2026.

The IRS shut down its direct filing program for 2026, but Free File, Fillable Forms, MilTax, and some private tools remain—if you know where to look. Here’s how to navigate the free options still ...

Reports indicate that the Trump administration is planning to eliminate the IRS Direct File program. While Republican lawmakers had previously targeted the program, the free tax software program had ...

The IRS ended the online, direct-to-government filing program last fall and is doubling down on the free tax filing options ...

Elizabeth Guevara is a personal finance reporter who explains the world of business and economics and how it impacts your finances. She joined Investopedia in 2024. zeljkosantrac / Getty Images The ...

For years, filing a basic tax return in the United States has often meant paying a private company for the privilege of telling the government how much you owe. Now the Internal Revenue Service is ...

The IRS is suspending the Direct File program, a free guided tax software for taxpayers in 25 states, for the upcoming filing season. Other free federal tax preparation programs will still be ...

Free File is not Direct File, which the IRS has discontinued for the 2026 tax season. This tax season, according to the IRS, eight private-sector partners are offering guided tax software products ...