- ORIGINAL NEWS
IRS free tax filing program will open to all eligible filers in pilot states on March 12
- SUMMARY
The IRS’ Direct File program will begin final testing on March 4 for eligible users in 12 pilot states: Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
Testing will be available 24/7 for new users who meet specific eligibility criteria, including simple returns with limited income and deductions.
On March 12, once testing is complete, Direct File will fully open in these states.
Note that space is limited, and the program may close briefly if the user allotment is exceeded.
Those who have already started a return will not be interrupted.
The Direct File software does not currently support state returns.
However, users from Arizona, California, Massachusetts, and New York will be guided to state-supported tax preparation tools.
- NEWS SENTIMENT CHECK
- Overall sentiment:
positive
Positive
“The IRS plans to fully open Direct File to eligible taxpayers in pilot states on March 12 once testing concludes.”
“Starting March 4, Direct File will expand final testing for eligible new users to begin federal returns, with availability 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, an IRS official said Friday.”
Negative
“Space will remain limited during final testing and Direct File may close briefly if users exceed the day’s allotment.”
“The pilot will only accept Form W-2 wages, Social Security retirement income, unemployment earnings and interest of $1,500 or less.”