Hoyer: Direct File Worked for the American People
The Internal Revenue Service’s Direct File program gave thousands of Americans across 25 states a free, fast, and easy way to pay their taxes. “The Trump administration knew it was a success but decided to end Direct File because they do not want government to work, even if it can save Americans time and money,” Rep. Steny H. Hoyer said.
The congressman released the following statement earlier this month after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that the IRS Direct File program had ended:
“The 72% of the American people who want a free, fast, and easy way to pay their taxes all ought to condemn the Trump Administration for putting the final nail in the coffin for the Direct File program at the Internal Revenue Service this week.
“Hundreds of thousands of Americans across 25 states used Direct File to file their taxes for free last year. It was secure, simple, and accurate. Some 94% of those participants rated the experience as ‘excellent’ or ‘above average.’ That’s not a surprise. On average, Direct File saved taxpayers $160 and multiple hours of time they would have otherwise had to spend filing their taxes. Direct File worked. The IRS harnessed digital innovation to the benefit of the American taxpayer.
“The Trump Administration knew it worked. They knew it when they fired the federal workers who administered Direct File. They knew it when they suppressed reports that further reaffirmed participants’ positive experience with the program. They still know it now – they just don’t care. Donald Trump ended Direct File because he does not want government to work, even if the program in question will save Americans time and money.”
Congressman Hoyer is chair of the Regional Leadership Council.
For more information about Rep. Steny H. Hoyer, visit his Leader member page.
