Gov. Pritzker and Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) Announce Participation in IRS Direct File Service

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Direct File provides free tax filing option for eligible Illinois residents

CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) today announced that Illinois will participate in the IRS Direct File service, which begins on January 27, 2025. Nearly two million eligible Illinois taxpayers will now be able to use Direct File to electronically prepare and file their 2024 federal tax returns for free.

After filing federal taxes, the program also connects taxpayers to Illinois' free state income tax filing system, MyTax Illinois, where they can file and complete their Illinois state returns. Direct File enables working families to prepare and file taxes electronically on their own for free using one streamlined platform and avoid paying costly fees to tax preparation companies.

"As we approach tax season, it is crucial that Illinoisans and their families have the resources needed to file their 2024 federal tax returns," said Governor JB Pritzker. "With our state's participation in the new Direct File program, approximately two million people will be eligible for free, electronic tax filing in 2025. This critical resource will no doubt put money typically spent on tax preparation services back into the pockets of hardworking families across Illinois."

Direct File was initially launched as a test program in 2024. Following a successful pilot, the service has become a permanent option with participation from 25 states. The IRS estimates that over 30 million taxpayers will be eligible for Direct File during the 2025 tax filing season.

"Connecting MyTax Illinois with the IRS Direct File option will simplify the filing process and offer eligible taxpayers an efficient way to electronically file both their federal and state income tax returns at no cost," said IDOR Director David Harris. "We understand that a significant amount of time and money is spent every year to ensure personal income tax returns are filed accurately and on time. This integration will help relieve stress and financial burden for taxpayers."

Direct File is an online service that is accessible on mobile phones, laptops, tablets, or desktop computers. Users will have access to a chatbot for guidance in both English and Spanish. It simplifies tax filing by providing a checklist and a guide to help navigate the process. To check eligibility and to use the service, Illinoisans can visit https://www.irs.gov/filing/irs-direct-file-for-free.