Senators ask watchdog to probe IRS Free File program

Source Domain: www.nextgov.com

Senators Elizabeth Warren, Angus King, and Ron Wyden have called for a Government Accountability Office (GAO) review of the IRS’s Free File program, which provides most Americans with a free way to file their taxes online through partnerships with private tax preparation companies. This government program emerged as an alternative to the IRS’s Direct File, which was canceled by the Trump administration due to cost and low participation rates. However, Free File has faced criticism for underperformance and insufficient oversight by the IRS in protecting user data, prompting the senators to request an updated review. The IRS planned a communications campaign for Free File but faces questions about its effectiveness in serving eligible taxpayers efficiently and securely.

Key Points:
– Senators Warren, King, and Wyden are requesting a GAO review of the IRS’s Free File program.
– Free File faced criticism over its underperformance and data security shortcomings.
– Direct File was canceled, leaving Free File as the primary tax filing option before recent reports cast uncertainty over its future.
– The GAO review would assess the IRS’s oversight of Free File partners and its ability to serve taxpayers securely.
– The director of Free File disputes claims of underperformance and urges support for promoting the program effectively.