Press Release

Trump Administration Undermines Popular, Free Tax Filing Tool That Cuts Costs for Families

04. 15. 2025

The IRS Direct File Tool is widely popular, yet its future is uncertain.

WASHINGTON: A statement from Adam Ruben, Vice President of Campaigns and Political Strategy at Economic Security Project:

“Hundreds of thousands of people benefitted from free and simple tax filing using the IRS Direct File tool this tax season. Instead of writing a check to a big tax prep company, like TurboTax or H&R Block, families kept more of their return, helping cut their cost of living. Despite its efficiency and overwhelming popularity  (98% user satisfaction) at the close of tax season today, it remains unclear if Direct File will continue. 

President Trump and Elon Musk have challenged Direct File since day one and made it nearly impossible for taxpayers to utilize this benefit. Musk and DOGE ordered the agency to stand down from public promotion and outreach, tweeted inaccurate messages claiming the tool was “deleted,” fired critical agency personnel, and took steps to weaponize taxpayers’ sensitive data. All of these actions lowered public trust and confidence in Direct File—and, more broadly, in the capabilities of the IRS—leading to a decline in uptake. Underneath all the public confusion, it appears this Administration had already reached a conclusion about the fate of Direct File before this tax season started. This is consistent with the 40+ year Republican campaign to defund and hollow out the IRS and cater to the wealthy who have profited from tax loopholes and lax tax oversight. 

President Trump ran on lowering costs and making government more efficient and responsive to people. A tool that allows people to file taxes for free, in less than an hour, is a powerful example of how efficient—and cost-effective—government can be for millions of Americans. Ultimately, Direct File delivers on its promise, and the Administration’s decision to end the program would show their loyalty to big corporations and the wealthy at the expense of American families.”