Officials from the Trump administration are working on an AI-driven website intended to serve as a central hub for Americans to access federal government services. The proposed website, named America.gov, aims to allow users to obtain and renew passports and file taxes for free through a digital portal. Six current and former U.S. officials familiar with the initiative reported that the website is still in the planning stages, with a multi-agency launch tentatively scheduled for the end of September, although the timeline may change. The project involves several former members of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, who hold key positions within the government.
The discussions surrounding America.gov include the potential revival of a program that was previously terminated by the Trump administration, which allowed some Americans to file taxes for free on a government website called Direct File. Officials are considering whether to incorporate a similar feature into the new website. One goal of the initiative is to simplify the tax filing process for Americans who claim the standard deduction, enabling them to file their taxes without using commercial tax preparation services.
The passport feature is also a significant focus for the website, with input from various departments involved in public-facing services. The initiative has not been previously reported, and some officials believe it could provide a political advantage for the Republican Party in the upcoming midterm elections. However, concerns exist that a problematic rollout could highlight issues regarding the administration's effectiveness.
The website is expected to primarily utilize a chatbot feature to enhance user interaction. The White House has not commented on the project, and the State and Treasury Departments did not respond to inquiries. The National Design Studio, led by former DOGE official Joe Gebbia, is overseeing the project. The website is intended to be hosted by the General Services Administration (GSA), which manages several government technology systems. The administration is also considering using Login.gov, a government identity verification system, as a means of access to the new website.
The National Design Studio has previously faced challenges with accessibility in its projects, and Gebbia has expressed ambitions to overhaul the federal government's web portfolio. The executive order establishing his team directed collaboration with the GSA to update the U.S. Web Design System, which serves as the style guide for federal websites. Recent changes in personnel have occurred within the GSA, and an AI engineer from the Treasury Department has taken over maintenance of the design system.
If the Trump administration includes free tax filing on the new website, it would represent a significant policy shift from its current stance. Discussions about offering free tax filing through an app occurred before President Trump took office, but the initiative was ultimately canceled.