- cross-posted to:
- technology@lemmy.zip
- cross-posted to:
- technology@lemmy.zip
“Direct File provides a free, secure option for taxpayers with simple tax situations in 12 states to file their taxes directly with the IRS,” the Treasury Department said. “Direct File is easy to use, with no hidden junk fees, and works as well on a smartphone as it does on a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. Direct File shows taxpayers the math so they can be sure that their return is accurate, and they are getting the refund they are entitled to.”
You can check whether you qualify to use the system at directfile.irs.gov. Based on the eligibility restrictions in the IRS program, the Treasury Department said it “estimates that one-third of all federal income tax returns filed could be prepared using Direct File.”
But there are many limits that would prevent taxpayers from using the system.
You’re right that a lot of them have conditions and requirements to be able to free file, but usually they have those requirements explicitly stated on the list. It may take a little more time than calling some random schmoe and give them all your tax info and have them fill it out, but it’s hardly a vast conspiracy.
If you find that you can’t free file with a service, despite falling into the criteria stated on the website, use a different service on the list. And if they have that option, report them to the IRS.
The scam sites were reported to the IRS for years. They made national news and the IRS still did not remove them. The IRS was lying to the public because bribes work.