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.
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:
Did DOGE really ‘delete’ the tech division that helped create the IRS Direct File free tax filing service?
Elon Musk, head of the chaos-causing Department of Government Efficiency, made an assertion this week that raised questions in some people’s minds about the status of the IRS Direct File program. That program enables tax filers in 25 states,
Has Elon Musk Shut Down a Free Online Tax Tool?
Musk said that 18F agency that supports free Direct File tax filing for Americans has been deleted – but it's still accepting returns.
Elon Musk creates confusion about IRS’ Direct File — but the free tax program is still available
Billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk posted on his social media site that he has “deleted” 18F, a government agency that worked on technology projects such as the IRS's Direct File program.
Elon Musk's X post causes confusion about whether IRS' free tax service is still available
Elon Musk created confusion on Monday with an X post that led some people to believe he had eliminated an agency that supported a free program used by Americans
Elon Musk creates confusion about deleting government agency 18F that worked on taxpayer tech
Billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk posted on his social media site that he has “deleted” 18F, a government agency that worked on technology projects such as the IRS’s Direct File program
IRS Tax Filing Could Be Upended For Millions of Americans: What To Know
The Direct File program was launched to benefit over 30 million taxpayers and prompted a backlash from commercial tax prep firms who lobbied against it. If ended, taxpayers from eligible states could be forced to go private if they are above a certain income threshold.
IRS Direct File Still Working This Tax Season Despite Musk’s Comments
Musk posted on Twitter that he had “deleted” 18F, the group responsible for creating Direct File. That caused some to incorrectly report that the program had been axed.
Elon Musk creates confusion about IRS Direct File, but the program is still available
Elon Musk posted Monday on his social media site that he had “deleted” 18F, a government agency that worked on technology projects such as the IRS’ Direct File program.
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