An electronic system for filing returns directly to the IRS is now available to taxpayers from 12 different states, including Texas.
Direct File, is a free online tool. According to the Associated Press, taxpayers in the selected states who have very simple W-2s and claim a standard deduction may be eligible to use it this tax season to file their federal income taxes.
The Treasury Department reportedly estimated that one-third of all federal income tax returns filed could be prepared using Direct File and that 19 million taxpayers may be eligible to use the tool this tax season.
So far, AP says roughly 20,000 people have participated in the pilot program, and the IRS expects participation to grow to 100,000 filers in the coming weeks.
Who can participate?
Certain taxpayers in Florida, New Hampshire, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wyoming, Arizona, Massachusetts, California and New York can participate in this program.
Direct File can only be used to file federal income taxes. Taxpayers from states that require filing state taxes will need to do so separately, AP says.
For more information on this program, click here.
