Story perspectives

160 Democrats Push to Reinstate Free IRS Direct File

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

160 Democratic lawmakers support the Direct File Act to reinstate the IRS Direct File option for free tax filing.
Led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Brad Sherman, the bill responds to U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to eliminate the program.
The IRS began testing Direct File in 2024 and expanded it to 25 states in 2025, but it was confirmed as discontinued last August.
The bill would bar the IRS from entering agreements that limit free filing services and would target 50% taxpayer access by the 2028 tax season.
Warren criticized Trump for canceling Direct File due to lobbying from tax preparation companies.

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Story summary

160 Democratic lawmakers support the Direct File Act to reinstate the IRS Direct File option for free tax filing.
Led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Brad Sherman, the bill responds to U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to eliminate the program.
The IRS began testing Direct File in 2024 and expanded it to 25 states in 2025, but it was confirmed as discontinued last August.
The bill would bar the IRS from entering agreements that limit free filing services and would target 50% taxpayer access by the 2028 tax season.
Warren criticized Trump for canceling Direct File due to lobbying from tax preparation companies.