Tax season is never fun, but there’s a new way to do it this year—and for free.
And it doesn’t involve TurboTax (where you pay at the end anyway).
This year, the process is made easier with the introduction of IRS Direct File, now available in the state. Designed to streamline tax filing for individuals with straightforward tax situations, IRS Direct File is a convenient option for eligible taxpayers.
To qualify for IRS Direct File in California, individuals must meet specific criteria. Taxpayers must have earned $200,000 or less with one employer, or $160,000 or less with multiple employers, and have no issues with previous tax returns. However, individuals who received certain forms, such as 1099-K, 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, or 1099-R, are ineligible. Additionally, those who need to file alimony are not eligible for this streamlined filing option.
Finally, there are limitations when it comes to tax credits; you can only receive the earned income tax credit or the child tax credit when using IRS Direct File. You are ineligible with any others.
To file taxes using IRS Direct File, taxpayers need a social security number or taxpayer identification number (ITIN), as well as a valid form of identification such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or passport card. This user-friendly option simplifies the tax filing process for eligible individuals, ensuring a smoother experience during tax season.
Remember, this service is for federal taxes only in California, so once you’re done filing through Direct File, the IRS will forward you to file your state taxes through a separate program.
Get started here: https://directfile.irs.gov/
