In early February 2025, claims emerged that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Elon Musk, had terminated, or planned to terminate, a program — Direct File — run by the IRS that allows (some) citizens to file individual tax returns for free:

The IRS Direct File program, which lets you prepare and file your federal return for free, is still up and running, for now.

Tax season is a time when many Americans eagerly anticipate their refunds. However, issues can arise that delay these payments. Understanding the steps to take if your refund is delayed can help alleviate stress and ensure you receive your money promptly.

This should be a banner year for taxpayers seeking free tax-preparation. But one key IRS program is under fire.

The Internal Revenue Service launched a pilot program last year that allows people to file their taxes directly with the federal government for free. This project is known as Direct File and has since expanded to 25 states.

Amid the Trump administration’s sweeping and at times chaotic campaign to shrink the size of government and trim head count, a segment of the federal workforce that is critical this time of year is being told they have to stay on the job: the IRS staffers who support the tax-filing process.