Members of Virginia’s congressional delegation announced today that they have written Gov. Glenn Youngkin to encourage him to take the necessary steps to allow Virginians the option of using the IRS Direct File program.
The U.S. Treasury Department piloted Direct File for 2023 returns in a small group of states, which did not include Virginia, with strong positive feedback from and savings for U.S. taxpayers who took advantage of the program. The IRS recently announced that it would open participation to all 50 states, however, Virginia’s full participation will require further actions by the Governor’s administration in concert with the General Assembly.
U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, and U.S. Reps. Bobby Scott, Abigail Spanberger, Gerry Connolly, Jennifer Wexton and Jennifer McClellan wrote to Youngkin to encourage him to allow full participation for Virginia taxpayers.
“On May 30, the Department of Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that Direct File, a free tax filing tool operated by Treasury and the IRS, will continue as a permanent option for taxpayers. All 50 states are invited to partner with the IRS to provide Direct File as an option to their residents next year. We urge you to take the necessary steps to provide Virginia taxpayers with the option to use this service in the future,” the lawmakers wrote.
According to the letter, taxpayers who filed simple tax situations in 12 states were able to file taxes for free directly to the IRS for tax year 2023.
“The results of the pilot indicate the program was well received by taxpayers. 140,803 taxpayers utilized the tool to claim more than $90 million in refunds and save an estimated $5.6 million in tax preparation fees. For Filing Season 2025, the IRS is working to broaden the base of taxpayers eligible for Direct File by including more complex tax situations and inviting all 50 states to participate,” the lawmakers wrote.
The lawmakers want the same opportunity for Virginian taxpayers.
“For many, the tax filing season can be time consuming, expensive, and confusing, even though most taxpayers have relatively simple returns… Virginians should have the same opportunity to access Direct File as they do any other taxpayer assistance program offered by the IRS.”
They asked Youngkin and his administration to work with the IRS, the Treasury Department and the General Assembly “to take the necessary steps for Virginia to join the program as soon as possible. Our offices stand ready to assist in this effort to expand filing options for Virginians.”
Beyer serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means, which has jurisdiction over tax policy. He consistently champions the IRS Direct File program to save American taxpayers time and money on their tax return preparation.
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Rebecca Barnabi
