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Trump Halts IRS Direct File Amid Backlash and Uncertainty

11/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the IRS Direct File will not be available for 2026.
The decision followed criticism from Republican lawmakers and commercial tax preparation firms.
The program, developed during Biden's presidency, aimed to simplify filing but drew private-sector backlash.
IRS Commissioner Scott Bessent said there are "better alternatives" and the program's future remains uncertain as development ceases.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the IRS Direct File will not be available for 2026.
The decision followed criticism from Republican lawmakers and commercial tax preparation firms.
The program, developed during Biden's presidency, aimed to simplify filing but drew private-sector backlash.
IRS Commissioner Scott Bessent said there are "better alternatives" and the program's future remains uncertain as development ceases.