IRS Extends Free File Program Through 2029

The program continues to offer free tax filing services amid evolving software partnerships and the introduction of a Direct File pilot.

Free File program allows taxpayers to file federal taxes for free using private-sector software partners.
The extension keeps the program available until October 2029, with eight software partners participating in 2024.
IRS Direct File pilot, a separate initiative, allowed direct filing with the IRS for free in 12 states, processing over 140,000 returns.
Intuit and H&R Block exited Free File after legal scrutiny, with Intuit paying $141 million in restitution for deceptive practices.
The IRS received 2.9 million returns through Free File in 2024, a 7.3% increase from the previous year.