IRS Reports Dramatically Expanded Service for Taxpayers in 2024 Tax Filing Season

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced significant improvements in its services during the 2024 tax filing season, thanks to the funding granted by the Inflation Reduction Act. With an additional $80 billion in funding, the IRS has been able to answer over a million more phone calls compared to the previous tax season and increase the number of filers eligible to file for free.

IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel highlighted the major improvements seen during the 2024 tax season, stating that a well-funded IRS has made a significant difference for taxpayers. The agency answered 7,608,000 calls, reduced waiting times for help on main phone lines, and assisted more taxpayers seeking in-person assistance at its offices.

One of the notable changes introduced this year was the launch of IRS Direct File, allowing eligible filers in 12 pilot states to submit simple tax returns for free directly with the IRS. While the new system generated over 60,000 tax returns, only 0.3 percent of eligible users utilized this option.

Additionally, the partnership with Free File partners offering free private-sector software via IRS.gov saw an increase in the number of tax returns filed, showing a growing trend in taxpayers opting for the free filing option.

Werfel emphasized that there is still more work to be done to further improve IRS services, but the 2024 tax season marks an important chapter in the ongoing efforts to transform the agency and enhance service for taxpayers. The IRS’s success in providing better service during this filing season demonstrates the positive impact of the Inflation Reduction Act funding on taxpayer experience.