IRS Direct File won’t be available next year

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IRS Direct File Program Discontinued for Filing Season 2026

By FATIMA HUSSEIN, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration has announced that the IRS Direct File program, which allowed for free electronic tax filing, will not be available for the upcoming Filing Season 2026. This decision comes after criticism from Republican lawmakers and commercial tax preparation companies.

A recent email sent to state comptrollers participating in the Direct File program confirmed the discontinuation, stating that no launch date has been set for its future availability.

Originally developed during Joe Biden’s presidency, the Direct File program was hailed by users for its ease, speed, and cost-effectiveness. However, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who also serves as the IRS commissioner, cited “better alternatives” and low usage as reasons for the program’s termination.

Despite the program’s success with over 296,000 accepted returns in 2025, it faced opposition from private tax preparation companies and lobbying efforts in Congress. The Trump administration’s decision to eliminate Direct File was met with criticism from advocates for affordable tax filing options.

With the Direct File website now closed and no plans for its return, taxpayers will need to explore other options for electronic tax filing in the future.

For more information on this development, stay tuned for updates from the IRS and related news sources.