U.S. taxpayers preparing to file their returns for 2025 may have noticed a change this year. The deadline, as always, is April 15th, but there is one fewer free option available to them. This change has caused some concern and confusion among taxpayers, but there is no need to worry. Let’s take a closer look at what this means for taxpayers and how they can still file their returns efficiently and accurately.

First, let’s address the elephant in the room – what is this one fewer free option? In previous years, taxpayers had the option to file their taxes for free using the IRS Free File program. This program, a partnership between the IRS and tax filing companies, allowed taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $72,000 or less to file their federal taxes for free. However, for the 2025 tax year, the IRS has decided to terminate this program.

This decision has sparked some concern among taxpayers who have relied on this program in the past. After all, who doesn’t love a free option? However, the IRS has assured taxpayers that there are still other free options available. Taxpayers with a simple tax situation can still use the IRS’ Free File Fillable Forms, which are electronic versions of IRS paper forms. These forms are available to all taxpayers, regardless of income, and can be filled out and submitted online for free.

Additionally, taxpayers can also use the Free File Alliance, a separate program from the IRS Free File program. This program is also a partnership between the IRS and tax filing companies, but it offers free tax filing options for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $66,000 or less. Taxpayers can visit the IRS website to access this program and choose from a list of participating companies.

It’s important to note that even though the IRS Free File program has ended, taxpayers can still file their federal taxes for free using these other options. The only difference is that they will have to go through a different process and use a different program. This change may seem inconvenient, but it is a small price to pay for the convenience and cost savings of filing taxes for free.

So, why did the IRS decide to terminate the Free File program? The main reason is to simplify the tax filing process for taxpayers. The program had become increasingly complex over the years, with different eligibility requirements and offerings from each participating company. This made it difficult for taxpayers to choose the best option for their specific tax situation. By ending the program, the IRS hopes to streamline the process and make it easier for taxpayers to file their taxes accurately and on time.

It’s also worth mentioning that the termination of the Free File program is not the only change taxpayers will see this year. The tax code has undergone several changes in recent years, and it’s important for taxpayers to stay informed and up-to-date on these changes. This will ensure that they are filing their taxes correctly and taking advantage of any deductions or credits they may be eligible for.

In conclusion, while U.S. taxpayers may have one fewer free option this year, there are still plenty of options available for free tax filing. The IRS Free File program may have ended, but taxpayers can still use the Free File Fillable Forms and the Free File Alliance to file their taxes for free. These changes may take some getting used to, but they are ultimately for the benefit of taxpayers. So, let’s embrace these changes and file our taxes with ease and confidence. Remember, the deadline for filing taxes for the 2025 tax year is April 15th, 2026, so let’s get started!