Dallas, February 4, 2026
The IRS has announced that the Direct File program will be discontinued for the upcoming tax season, leaving many North Texas residents looking for alternative free tax filing options. Programs like the IRS Free File, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), and Free File Fillable Forms remain available for eligible taxpayers. Proper documentation will be essential for participants, as deadlines approach for filing taxes. Local resources and proactive approaches will help residents navigate these changes effectively.
Dallas Faces Changes in Tax Filing Options for 2026
Dallas, Texas – The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has confirmed that its Direct File program, which allowed taxpayers to file taxes directly with the IRS for free, will not be available for the 2026 tax season. This decision leaves North Texas residents seeking alternative free tax filing options.
The Direct File program was initially introduced as a free, government-run e-filing tool for taxpayers with simple tax situations. While it operated successfully in 25 states during the 2024 tax season, including Texas, the IRS has shifted its focus toward enhancing existing free filing options instead of continuing this program.
Alternative Free Tax Filing Options in North Texas
| Option | Eligibility | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| IRS Free File Program | AGI of $89,000 or less | Personal info, income documents, last year’s tax return |
| Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) | Generally $69,000 or less | Photo ID, SSN/ITIN for all on return, income documents |
| Free File Fillable Forms | All income levels | Manual entry of tax information |
IRS Free File Program
The IRS Free File program offers eligible taxpayers the opportunity to prepare and file their federal tax returns online at no cost. To qualify, filers must have an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $89,000 or less, and it is open to wage earners, contractors, gig workers, small business owners, active-duty military, and federal reservists. Required information includes a Social Security number, a valid email address, and previous tax returns.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
The VITA program provides free, face-to-face tax preparation assistance from IRS-certified volunteers. It caters specifically to individuals who generally earn $69,000 or less, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. To utilize VITA services, individuals need to bring a photo ID, Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, income documents, and last year’s tax return if available. VITA operates through community centers and nonprofit organizations across Dallas-Fort Worth.
Additional Resources
For those who prefer to file taxes themselves, the IRS Free File Fillable Forms option is available to all income levels. This tool offers digital versions of IRS paper forms but requires manual data entry without guided assistance.
Key Dates
Residents of Dallas should note the important deadlines for the upcoming tax season:
- Tax Filing Deadline: April 15, 2026
- Extension Filing Deadline: October 15, 2026
Conclusion
With the discontinuation of the IRS Direct File program, Dallas residents will need to be proactive in exploring available free tax filing options. Whether utilizing the IRS Free File program, seeking assistance through VITA, or opting for Free File Fillable Forms, taxpayers have various avenues to ensure timely and accurate submission of their returns. Supporting local initiatives that aid tax preparation can also contribute to the overall resilience of the community during this transition period.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
