Direct File
Many Pennsylvanians are eligible to use Direct File, a free and secure online tool that can be used to file both your federal tax return and PA personal income tax return (PA-40). You can save hundreds of dollars and time by using Direct File.
If you have already filed your federal tax return, we encourage you to use myPATH to file your PA personal income tax return (PA-40) online, securely, for free.
Additional resources:
Direct File Eligibility
Direct File may be a good option if you:
- Lived in Pennsylvania for all of 2024
- Earned all of your income in Pennsylvania in 2024
- Will not file Pennsylvania Schedule OC — Other Credits
Use the IRS eligibility checker at directfile.irs.gov/state to see if you’re eligible.
Direct File FAQs
Direct File is a digital tool that allows taxpayers to file their federal and state taxes directly with the IRS and the PA Department of Revenue. Following a successful pilot in 2024, the IRS made Direct File a permanent tax filing option. This year, Direct File is available to eligible taxpayers in 25 states, including Pennsylvania.
See directfile.irs.gov for pilot information and updates.
Direct File supports many common tax situations, including wage income from jobs that’s reported on a W2, social security income, pension and annuity income, and more. On the federal level, the service supports several tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, Child and Dependent Care Credit, Premium Tax Credit, and others. Direct File supports deductions for student loan interest, educator expenses, and Health Savings Accounts.
The Direct File pilot is projected to be available to eligible taxpayers residing in 25 states, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Taxpayers who lived in one of those 25 states in 2024 for the entire year may be eligible to use Direct File. Interested taxpayers can check their eligibility for Direct File at directfile.irs.gov.
Other Ways to File
- myPATH: A secure, state-only electronic filing system. myPATH is a service offered exclusively through the Department of Revenue. You can prepare and submit your Pennsylvania personal income tax return for free.
- E-file for free: A safe, convenient online filing option available from reputable vendors. File your state and federal returns for free. Only for qualified tax payers. Some income restrictions may apply.
- E-file for a fee: E-file using commercial tax preparation software from reputable vendors. This service is approved through the Fed/State e-file program.
- Download a paper form: Download the PA-40 form to prepare and submit your Pennsylvania personal income tax return for free.
Reminder: States are fighting stolen-identity tax fraud. Now, tax filers are asked to provide their driver's license or state ID number. This adds security against refund fraud. If you don't have a driver's license or state ID, your return won't be rejected. Providing the number is optional, but it might speed up your return processing.
How to Use IRS Direct File to File a PA Personal Income Tax Return
The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue advises taxpayers on how to file a Personal Income Tax Return using Direct File online.
Filing a PA-40 Personal Income Tax Return
Learn how to file a PA Personal Income Tax Return for free using the new myPATH portal.