Wisconsin to Join Federal Direct File Program for Free Online Tax Filing in 2025
New System Expected to Save Millions and Enhance User Experience for State Taxpayers
According to WISCONSIN EXAMINER, Wisconsin taxpayers will soon have a new and affordable way to file their state and federal income tax returns. Starting in 2025 Wisconsin will join the federal Direct File program which lets users file their taxes online for free. The IRS began this program as a pilot in 12 states this year and plans to expand it nationally next year. For Wisconsin this means taxpayers will use a federal filing portal provided by the IRS and then switch to a new WisTax portal set up by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
In its first year the Direct File program has already helped taxpayers save about $5.6 million in tax preparation fees and provided over $90 million in refunds. With Wisconsin joining the program residents will be able to benefit from these savings and enjoy a more user-friendly and accurate tax filing process. The state Department of Revenue is excited about this new system believing it will improve the overall tax filing experience by being free easy to use and efficient.
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Evers and Baldwin Back Direct File Program, Aiming for Simplified and Cost-Effective Tax Filing
Governor Tony Evers and Senator Tammy Baldwin are both backing this new initiative noting its potential to save time and money for taxpayers. Baldwin who was instrumental in advancing the program through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act pointed out that the Direct File program addresses issues caused by decades of lobbying by tax preparation companies. These companies have made direct free filing difficult for taxpayers. With Wisconsin’s participation taxpayers can look forward to a simpler and more cost-effective tax season starting in 2025.