Though some social media users interpreted Elon Musk's X post as meaning the service was closed, its website remained active as of Feb. 7.

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:

Here's when the last day to file taxes is, what documents you'll need, new forms for the 2024-25 tax season and how to track your tax refund.

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

The IRS Direct File program is revolutionizing tax filing for millions of Americans by offering a no-cost, streamlined process for uncomplicated returns. Despite its benefits, the program faces opposition from private tax-preparation companies and political figures.

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.

Last year the Internal Revenue Service launched a program that allowed some tax filers to file their returns directly to the IRS. It was available when the 2025 filing started this year, but a social media post from Elon Musk caused some confusion over whether it was still available.

Tax season can be stressful from gathering all the required documents to finding a trusted place to file. Here are some options for filing for free.

Discover how the expanded IRS Direct File program can simplify your tax filing process this 2025 season, offering a free, secure, and efficient way to submit your federal tax returns.