IRS Direct File

IRS Direct File helps taxpayers file federal returns online for free.

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  • Overview
  • Features
  • Pricing
  • Pros
  • Cons
  • Reviews

IRS Direct File Overview

  • Updated December 9, 2025

The IRS Direct File is a free online tax filing tool provided directly by the Internal Revenue Service. It allows eligible taxpayers to prepare and file their federal tax returns securely without relying on third-party software or paid services.

Designed to be straightforward and easy to use, Direct File guides individuals through the process step by step and ensures accuracy by connecting directly with the IRS system.

Key Features

  • Free federal filing: The service lets eligible taxpayers file their federal tax returns without paying fees.
  • Direct IRS connection: Returns are filed straight with the IRS, which removes the need for third-party software.
  • Step-by-step guidance: The system walks users through the filing process in simple, clear steps.
  • Secure platform: All information is protected with strong IRS security measures to keep data safe.
  • Eligibility-based access: Not all taxpayers can use it, since eligibility depends on income and return complexity.
  • No hidden costs: The platform has no upsells or surprise charges, which helps keep the experience straightforward.

Price

Item Price / Cost
Federal tax‑return filing via Direct File Free — no cost to taxpayer
State tax returns (if required) Not handled by Direct File — you must use state filing tools (which may have their own cost)
Eligibility / Access Currently limited to eligible taxpayers in participating states (depending on year and IRS rollout)

Pros

Competitor Pros of IRS Direct File
TurboTax IRS Direct File is completely free and guides users step by step through filing their federal taxes, which helps save money and time. It connects directly to the IRS and avoids confusing upsells that are common in TurboTax.
H&R Block The IRS tool includes secure, guided filing without any price or hidden fees. It avoids the in-app upsells and tiered pricing that H&R Block often applies.
Free File Alliance (like FreeTaxUSA, TaxSlayer) Direct File is run by the IRS itself and avoids income eligibility rules or other restrictions that some Free File partners may impose. It also saves taxpayers directly rather than redirecting them through private software.
Cash App Taxes / TaxAct / TaxSlayer It offers the same federal filing for free, but without needing to register on a commercial platform. It reduces complexity and ensures users are dealing with a government-run service they can trust.
Taxfyle (pro-assisted filing) IRS Direct File lets users file on their own for free and securely, whereas Taxfyle requires paying for a CPA or EA—even though that offers expertise, it costs more and may complicate filing.

Cons

Competitor Cons of IRS Direct File
TurboTax TurboTax supports many more tax forms and complex scenarios, including investments, self-employment, and detailed deductions. IRS Direct File supports only simpler returns and limits forms and income types.
H&R Block H&R Block offers in-person help, live chat, mobile apps, and audit support. IRS Direct File provides only federal guidance, so users may miss that personal touch and broader support options.
Free File Alliance Some Free File providers include free state filing; IRS Direct File often requires taxpayers to find separate state options. Also, Free File tools may handle slightly more scenarios than the basic Direct File eligibility.
Cash App Taxes / TaxAct Those services may support both federal and state returns for free (Cash App Taxes) or cover more situations (TaxAct). IRS Direct File covers federal only and only for simpler cases.
Taxfyle Taxfyle connects you to a professional who can maximize deductions and file both federal and state returns. Direct File lacks that tailored, expert support and may yield lower refunds for complex filings.

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