No, Elon Musk Didn't End Free Direct File Tax Filing Program

Trump, at least for now, has not terminated Direct File, the free IRS tax filing system
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:
Was IRS Direct File 'deleted'? How to file taxes for free in 2025
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.
No, Elon Musk Didn't End the Free Direct File Tax Filing Program, for Now
There was widespread confusion after the Tesla CEO claimed the program, which allows Americans to file their taxes straight to the IRS, had been "deleted."
Elon Musk Creates Confusion About Direct File, the IRS’ Free Tax-Prep Program
Though the billionaire presidential adviser created confusion when he said he’d “deleted” the agency behind it, the free filing program is still available—at least for the coming tax season.
Elon Musk 'deleted' IRS Direct File: Should taxpayers worry about their tax returns?
Elon Musk posted that the IRS Direct File group had been "deleted," prompting confusion about the free tax prep service's future.
Elon Musk says he 'deleted' IRS Direct File. Can Wisconsin taxpayers still use the free service?
Elon Musk wrote on X on Monday that 18F, the digital consulting team who developed the IRS Direct File system, had been deleted.
Elon Musk creates confusion about IRS' Direct File — but the free tax program is still available
The IRS has faced intense blowback to Direct File from private tax preparation companies that have made billions from charging people to use their software.
File Taxes for Free: How the IRS Free File Program Really Works
With the 2025 tax season underway, Free File could be just what you need to get your taxes done early and only for $0.
Where is my refund? How to check IRS tax return status, wait time for direct deposit
If you're looking to save some extra money or maybe pay off some debt, a tax refund could help. Here's how to track your tax ...
USA Today5d
Taxpayers can still use Direct File for free online filing as of Feb. 7 | Fact check
A Feb. 3 Instagram post (direct link, archive link) claims an IRS service that helped taxpayers file their taxes for free online is no longer available. “Thanks to DOGE, millions of Americans ...
NorthJersey.com6d
Did Elon Musk get rid of Direct File? What is it and can you still use it in NJ?
Tax filing season is underway and so is the search for free options to file for your refund, such as IRS Direct File … or not, since Elon Musk said he deleted the program earlier this week.
The Indianapolis Star13d
IRS Direct File program now open. Who’s eligible, how to file your taxes for free in Florida
The Internal Revenue Service's new free online Direct File service is open for business. Last year, more than 20,000 Florida taxpayers took advantage of the pilot program that allowed taxpayers ...
ConsumerAffairs1d
Six tips to make tax-filing season easier
The 2024 tax-filing season has begun and the IRS has offered a set of six important tips designed to help taxpayers navigate ...