Members of Virginia’s congressional delegation have written to Governor Glenn Youngkin, urging him to enable Virginians to use the IRS Direct File program.
The U.S. Treasury Department piloted the Direct File program for 2023 returns in a few states, not including Virginia. The program received positive feedback and saved taxpayers money. The IRS now plans to extend the program to all 50 states, but Virginia needs action from the Governor and General Assembly to participate fully.
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 sent a letter to Youngkin encouraging him to join the program.
On May 30, the Treasury and IRS announced that Direct File, a free tax filing tool, will be a permanent option. All 50 states can partner with the IRS to offer this service next year. The lawmakers urged Youngkin to ensure Virginia taxpayers have this option.
In 2023, taxpayers in 12 states with simple tax situations could file taxes for free through the IRS. The pilot program was well received, with 140,803 taxpayers using it to claim over $90 million in refunds and save an estimated $5.6 million in tax preparation fees. For the 2025 filing season, the IRS plans to expand the program to include more complex tax situations and invite all states to participate.
The lawmakers want Virginian taxpayers to have the same opportunity, noting that tax filing can be time-consuming, expensive, and confusing. They asked Youngkin to work with the IRS, Treasury Department, and General Assembly to join the program as soon as possible. They offered their assistance in expanding filing options for Virginians.
Rep. Beyer, a member of the House Committee on Ways and Means, has been a consistent supporter of the IRS Direct File program to save taxpayers time and money.