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

IRS Direct File: A guide to understanding the free tax preparation service
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.
Can I still use Direct File to file my taxes? Elon Musk social post causes confusion
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.
Musk Says Group That Built IRS Direct File Was ‘Deleted,’ but Program Is Still Available
The IRS’ free tax-preparation program remains a free option for taxpayers this year, but the fate of a group of government technologists that helped develop it is less certain.
Musk stirs up confusion about the status of IRS Direct File program
Direct File, which allows taxpayers to file their tax returns directly with the federal government, was launched as a pilot program in 12 states during the 2024 tax season.
Taxes 2025: IRS Direct File still accepting tax returns, the latest on tax refunds
The Internal Revenue Service is accepting tax returns for tax season 2025, including through the expanded Direct File program. Why it matters: There's been some confusion on the status of the free online tax-filing program after Elon Musk posted on X Monday that he had "deleted" 18F,
Taxpayers can still use Direct File for free online filing as of Feb. 7 | Fact check
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.
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."
Musk says he 'deleted' IRS easy filing team that let Americans file taxes for free online
In a post on X, unelected government official Elon Musk revealed that he has cut the staff of the Internal Revenue Service that oversaw the system that allows Americans to file their taxes for free easily on its website.
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.
IRS Direct File: What should we expect from its status with the arrival of Elon Musk?
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.
IRS: Here’s the deadline to file your taxes
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Taxpayers will have until April 15 to file their taxes, according to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) ...
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What is Direct File? Some answers to common questions surrounding tax filing season.
Tax season in America began Jan. 27, according to the Internal Revenue Service. This year, the IRS announced that direct ...
Kansans can now file federal taxes directly to the IRS. Here are dates and tips to know
That’s because Kansas is one of 25 states now allowing taxpayers to file their federal taxes directly to the Internal Revenue Service free of charge. The IRS’ direct file is for anyone whose worked in ...