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HF 30

Commissioner of revenue required to establish a system for direct free filing of individual income tax returns.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brion Curran and 5 co-sponsors

Minnesota would establish a free, state-run income tax filing system allowing residents to directly file returns without commercial software charges.

Author added Kraft
#governmentaloperations-state #taxation-income
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HF 30

Legislative bill overview

HF 30 requires Minnesota's Commissioner of Revenue to establish a free, direct filing system that allows individual taxpayers to file their state income tax returns without using commercial tax preparation software. This would create a state-operated alternative to private tax filing platforms, enabling eligible Minnesota residents to complete and submit their returns at no cost through the government system.

Why is this important

Currently, most taxpayers must pay commercial tax preparation companies (like TurboTax or H&R Block) to file returns, or navigate complex IRS Free File programs with eligibility restrictions. A direct state filing system could reduce barriers to compliance, lower filing costs for lower and middle-income residents, and generate revenue data the state already needs. This aligns with similar efforts in other states and proposals at the federal level to challenge private tax software companies' market dominance.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and resources: Developing and maintaining a state tax filing system requires significant IT investment and ongoing operational funding; opponents may question whether this is an efficient use of public resources compared to improving existing free filing options
  • Private sector impact: Tax preparation companies and software providers may lobby against the bill, arguing it represents unfair government competition and threatens their business models
  • Implementation complexity: Creating a system that handles Minnesota's full tax code, deductions, and edge cases is technically challenging; delays or technical failures could frustrate users and undermine public confidence

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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