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:
Was IRS Direct File 'deleted'? How to file taxes for free in 2025
Tax season can be stressful from gathering all the required documents to finding a trusted place to file. Here are some options for filing for free.
Tax Season 2025 Is Underway: 'Enhanced' Direct File Comes to More States
An "enhanced" version of the IRS' Direct File program launched this year, with availability in roughly twice as many states as last year.
Elon Musk creates confusion about IRS' Direct File — but the free tax program is still available
The IRS has faced intense blowback to Direct File from private tax preparation companies that have made billions from charging people to use their software.
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 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.
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.
Can I still use Direct File to file my taxes? Elon Musk social post causes confusion
Direct File, a system that allows people in some states to file directly with the IRS for free, is in fact still available, despite Musk posting cryptic messages on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
File Taxes for Free: How the IRS Free File Program Really Works
With the 2025 tax season underway, Free File could be just what you need to get your taxes done early and only for $0.
USA Today4d
Taxpayers can still use Direct File for free online filing as of Feb. 7 | Fact check
A Feb. 3 Instagram post (direct link, archive link) claims an IRS service that helped taxpayers file their taxes for free online is no longer available. “Thanks to DOGE, millions of Americans ...
Where is my tax refund? How to check your refund status, filing dates, refund amounts
The IRS is accepting returns now through April 15. Here's how to track your refund and calculate how much could come your way.