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

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."
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:
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.
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.
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,
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.
IRS’ Direct File Makes It Easier For Families To Claim Tax Credits
Most people who are eligible for tax credits claim them. Direct File—the IRS’s online tool for filing tax returns—could get more eligible filers to claim EITCs and CTCs.
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 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.
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.
Columbus Dispatch9d
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 ...
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) ...