Expanded into 25 states for 2025, IRS Direct File allows eligible taxpayers to submit federal returns free of charge.

The tax season is officially open. Monday, Jan. 27 is the first day you can file your returns. They may not be due until April 15, but getting a head start will get you a quicker refund. Or give you more time to save if you owe the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) some cash.

The IRS has broadened its free Direct File tax program to 13 additional states, including Alaska, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. Initially launched last year, the program offers step-by-step filing assistance and live support in English and Spanish, covering credits like Earned Income, Child Tax, and Retirement Savings Contribution.

Tax season is back again, which means it’s time to collect your W-2 and Form 1098, and Form 1099s and start filing. While there are a slew of tax services and professionals that can help you file, for a fee,

Free File allows taxpayers who earned below certain thresholds in 2024 to file their taxes electronically for free using brand-name software provided by commercial tax filing companies. Free File Fillable forms are available to any income level and provide free electronic forms that people fill out and file themselves — also at no cost.

Many Illinois residents will be able to use the IRS Direct File service to electronically prepare and file their 2024 federal tax returns for free.

If you’ve ever used paid tax software, the IRS Direct File operates similarly: First, go to the Direct File webpage. After completing your federal return, you’ll be directed to your state’s filing website via a companion service to complete your state tax return, if eligible. (Note: this part is not directly with the IRS).

Direct File is an online program offered by the IRS that allows you to file your tax return directly to the agency for free. It launched as a pilot program in 2024 across 12 states as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act, which President Joe Biden signed into law in 2022.

Direct File is a web-based service that works on mobile phones, laptops, tablets or desktop computers. It guides taxpayers through a series of questions to prepare their federal tax return step-by-step. Direct File is open now to eligible taxpayers in 25 states to file their taxes directly with the IRS for free.