The Trump administration sent out a memo saying government employees can choose to resign and get paid through September — or face potential layoffs later. Meanwhile, the president removed two members of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as well as one member and the general counsel of the National Labor Relations Board.

Tax season has officially opened. Starting on Monday, you can now file tax returns for 2024 income. This year the Internal Revenue Service is making it easier for more people to file online for free, through its Direct File program. That was introduced last year as a pilot, and this year it is being expanded.

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IRS Direct File launched last year as a way to file your taxes with the federal tax agency — for free. At the time, there were only 12 participating pilot states. This tax season, twenty-five states will participate, though the IRS invited all states and the District of Columbia to join in.

Filers with Adjusted Gross Income, known as AGI, of less than $84,000 can use IRS Free File to complete returns at no charge. Free File offers tax preparation software from eight companies and gives free online access to preparation and filing software.

Florida is one of 25 states eligible to file taxes for free directly with the IRS. Here's how it works, plus other options.

Taxpayers will have until April 15 in most states to file and pay their federal tax returns as the IRS is accepting returns from now.

Fact checked by Vikki Velasquez Reviewed by David Kindness Navigating taxes can feel overwhelming, with its sea of paperwork, numbers, and deadlines—especially for first-time filers. But understanding the basics is key to maximizing returns and staying compliant.