IRS To Launch New Free Filing Pilot Program

The new filing government-run system will be free and is set to launch in 12 states before becoming available to the public in March if it succeeds the trial period.

The IRS is set to test the launch of a new filing program for some states.

Direct File is an online tool that offers step-by-step guidance to taxpayers filing their federal tax returns by posing questions about their income and tax situations.

Eligibility for the program is limited to people with form W2 income, which is standard wages, unemployment compensation, Social Security benefits and interest of $1,500 or less. Other types of income, such as returns on stock or other investments, won’t be supported by the program.

The new filing government-run system will be free and is set to launch in 12 states before becoming available to the public in March if it succeeds the trial period.