The IRS has a new option to make filing taxes easier, and free, for many Mainers.

The “Direct File” program offers eligible taxpayers a way to file their federal individual income taxes online directly with the IRS at no cost.

The IRS tested the option as a pilot program last year and has now expanded it to half the states, including Maine.

Generally, people with relatively straightforward taxes who don’t itemize are eligible.

Those who itemize deductions or if have lived or earned money in multiple states are not eligible,

Direct File may be a good option if you:

• Lived in Maine for all of 2024
• Earned all of your income in Maine in 2024
• Plan to use the same filing status for both your federal and state tax returns

Direct File can accommodate the following:

• Income Types
  • Wage income (W-2)
  • Social Security Income (SSA-1099)
  • Unemployment Compensation (1099-G)
  • Interest Income (1099-INT)
  • Retirement Income (excluding IRAs) (1099-R)
• Credits
  • Earned Income Tax Credit
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Credit for Other Dependents
  • Child and Dependent Care Credit
  • Premium Tax Credit
  • Retirement Savings Contributions Credit (Saver’s Credit)
  • Credit for the Elderly and Disabled
• Deductions
  • Standard Deduction only
  • Student Loan Interest
  • Educator Expenses
  • Health Savings Account Contributions

Find further details here.