How To Get Your Taxes Done For Free
Learn how qualifying taxpayers can receive free tax prep assistance.
Need help completing your tax return? Then you’ll be glad to know that there are programs offering free tax prep help to those who qualify.
For starters, the IRS’s Free File program gives you free access to tax preparation software as long as your income is under a certain amount. However, the program varies by state. Not all Free Files include both federal and state forms so you may still need to pay to file in your state if you go this route. This is best for simple returns and if you don’t have any questions.
Even better, there are programs that connect you with an IRS-certified volunteer who can help you file your return. What does IRS-certified mean? Simply that these volunteers have taken and passed tax law training that meets or exceeds IRS standards. They’ve also been trained on how to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of your personal and financial information.
Best of all, the IRS requires a quality review check for every return prepared at these sites. According to taxoutreach.org, free tax preparation programs have an accuracy rate of over 90 percent, the highest in the industry. Talk about peace of mind!
To help you find free tax prep help near you, AARP Foundation wants you to know about two reputable programs that will ease the stress of filing while helping you get the credits and deductions you’re entitled to.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
Since 1968, Tax-Aide has helped more than 75 million taxpayers with low to moderate income file their returns. Tax-Aide provides tax assistance to anyone, free of charge, with a special focus on taxpayers who are over 50 or have low to moderate income. AARP membership is not required.
Depending on what’s available in your area, you can have your tax prep completed any number of convenient ways, including:
- In-person by a Tax-Aide volunteer on-site
- Remote online assistance byThanks a Tax-Aide volunteer
- Coaching and support to prepare your own return
- Using software available through the Tax-Aide website
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Community organizations across the country offer VITA, a federal grant program under the IRS that provides free tax preparation to people who meet certain requirements. For more than 50 years, VITA sites have offered free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, including:
- People who generally make $60,000 or less
- Persons with disabilities
- Limited English-speaking taxpayers
The IRS website lists VITA sites across the country, operational hours, language spoken, and whether you need an appointment before showing up. You can also call 800- 906-9887 to get a list of local sites near you.
No matter which free tax prep service you use, It’s a good idea to learn to sign up for an appointment sooner rather than later. Spots typically open in mid-February. And the deadline to file your tax return is April 15, unless that date falls on a weekend or holiday.
I cannot thank you enough for your tax service. It is such a relief to me knowing a ‘pro’ will do them for me.
– Tax-Aide participant
Find More Free Resources
Help filing your taxes is just the beginning. AARP Foundation can help you discover programs that help you save on household expenses like utilities, food, and healthcare.