Good news for millions of Americans: SSA doesn't leave anyone behind, what a relief

Filing taxes for the first time usually causes nerves, but now the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the United States Government have launched support for newcomers. The goal is for millions of Americans to do it without stress, with clear relief from the very first step. Let's look at the key points, step by step, for this vital assistance.

First, IRS Free File is offered, a program that allows free preparation of the tax form, electronic filing, and direct deposit. However, this is only available if the taxpayer has adjusted income below a certain limit (~$79,000 USD for the 2023 tax year).

SSA Doesn't Want Problems With Taxpayers: File Your Taxes This Easily

For those filing for the first time, the IRS allows using "0" as the prior year's income as an electronic signature, a convenience for those without a tax history. Meanwhile, Direct File has been launched, an IRS system that was tested in 2024 in 12 states and is now expanding to 25 states in 2025, benefiting more than 30 million people.

Its operation is simple, with guided questions, assistance in Spanish and English, and even a chatbot that defines terms like "adjusted gross income." According to a real example, a user in Texas completed her return in one hour and saved nearly $400 USD in private preparer fees.

The Step-By-Step Process Is Very Simple: Everyone Applauds It In The US

Gather your Social Security number (or ITIN), your W‑2 or 1099 form, and bank information for a refund. Then access Free File through IRS.gov or enter the Direct File portal in participating states. The system guides you with questions and automatically completes your information.

Afterward, you review and file electronically. The fastest way to receive a refund is to choose e‑file and direct deposit.

After filing, you can track your refund status online with the "Where's My Refund?" tool. If you need more time, you can get an automatic six-month extension, but keep in mind that this doesn't postpone the payment of taxes.

Users Are Satisfied With IRS Support

The IRS's goal is clear: make things easier for new taxpayers and reduce human errors by offering simple, guided, and secure options, with no hidden costs or intermediaries. They want to prevent people from missing out on tax benefits due to laziness or complexity.

Users describe Direct File as "taxes for dummies," highlighting its clarity and step-by-step support. In addition, it's estimated that 141,000 people who used Direct File in 2024 saved more than $5.6 million USD in fees.

Another program, VITA, offers free in-person assistance to low-income individuals, seniors, or those with language barriers, supported by trained volunteers. Meanwhile, SSA collaborates so that those receiving retirement benefits can have taxes withheld from their monthly payment if their combined income requires them to file.