The article discusses the mixed reactions towards the IRS's Direct File, a free online tax filing option that, despite positive feedback from users, faces skepticism and uncertainty about its future in the complex landscape of government technology and tax services.

Amid IRS cutbacks, experts warn that skipping tax return filings could lead to costly penalties. The IRS has experienced a 5% decline in individual returns compared to last season.

Tax attorneys Hana Boruchov and Leo Gabovich answer tax-related questions from NPR's audience, providing guidance on filing taxes, dealing with missing forms, and remote work taxation issues.