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Direct File: Free and easy tax filing help for Illinoisans

If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, check out IRS Direct File! It’s a groundbreaking new service that will allow taxpayers to file their taxes online QUICKLY, EASILY, and FOR FREE.

Filing taxes is an important responsibility, and also a source of critical help for many of us who get hundreds or even thousands of dollars every spring in our tax refunds. Direct File is an exciting opportunity for you to access free, safe, and easy tax filing services. It also allows you to avoid the mega-corporations that siphon money from hardworking Americans to pad their profits.

What do I do?

  • Visit directfile.irs.gov on your computer, tablet, or phone to check your eligibility.
  • If eligible, create an ID.me* login account (check-out this step-by-step guide in case you need help)

* Direct File uses ID.me to make sure your tax data is absolutely secure

  • Use the simple interview-style tool to complete your federal taxes — in English or Spanish
  • If you live in a state with income taxes: Once you complete your federal taxes, you’ll be taken to a free state filing system on your state’s tax website to seamlessly complete your state return online, too.

How long will this take? 

  • In most cases, Direct File takes less than an hour and many people reported filing in as little as 30 minutes. 
  • If you can’t finish all at once, you can save your progress and finish your return later. 

What if I need help?  

  • When you use Direct File, you will have access to dedicated live chat support from IRS staff in English or Spanish. If needed, you can switch to a phone call with a representative for additional support. 
  • For more information about Direct File, you can visit: directfile.irs.gov. 

What do I get with Direct File?

  • Interview-based tool that completes your return for you based on your answers to simple and easy-to-understand questions 
  • File your federal return for free — easily and directly with the IRS in your web browser, computer, or phone 
  • File your state return for free — easily and directly with your state tax agency
  • Live chat support from certified IRS assistance agents while filing
  • Option of English or Spanish
  • A guaranteed free experience! 

Am I eligible? 

  • Taxpayers from 25 states are able participate this filing season: Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming
  • You can use Direct File if you use standard deduction and have a relatively straightforward tax situation. For example, if you don’t itemize your deductions, your income came primarily from W-2 employment, and you claim common tax credits like the CTC, EITC, or premium tax credit, you’re likely eligible. Gig work is not yet covered by Direct File. Direct File has a screener tool that will make sure it’s the right tool for you before you start filing. Visit directfile.irs.gov to learn more about eligibility specifics.   

What if I don’t have a Social Security Number?  

  • Tax filers with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) who have previously filed taxes can use Direct File. Tax filers with a Social Security Number (SSN) can use Direct File regardless of having previously filed taxes.

Go to directfile.irs.gov to file your taxes for free this year!