How to Get Free Help With Tax Returns

Many taxpayers are overwhelmed by the complexity of the tax forms and instructions. Fortunately, the Internal Revenue Service, state and local government offices offer free help, including electronically filing tax returns and arranging for direct deposits of refunds.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Use Free File. Taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $54,000 or less can file taxes free of charge on the IRS Web site. Free file includes online help and accuracy checks. Visit http://www.irs.gov.

2. Go to a Tax Assistance Center. Enter your ZIP code in the Tax Assistance Center Office locater to find one near you.

3. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 for assistance over the telephone.

4. Visit an AARP Tax-aide site. Enter your ZIP code on the AARP's website at http://aarp.org for a list of nearby tax-aide sites and their operating hours. Or call 1-800-OUR-AARP.

5. Receive assistance from VITA/TCE (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Tax Counseling for the Elderly). VITA sites can be found on many military bases and college campuses. Call the IRS at 1-800-1040 to find a VITA/TCE site near you.

Tips & Warnings

• You don't have to be a member of AARP to use its Tax-Aide service. Senior citizens receive priority, but most taxpayers can receive help from Tax-aide volunteers.
• Bring the social security cards for yourself, your spouse and all dependents, along with all your tax forms and information, to the Tax Assistance Center, Tax-Aide site or VITA/TCE site.
• VITA workers on military bases are especially trained to help military members and their families prepare taxes. VITA workers on college campuses are trained to help taxpayers who are resident aliens.
• If you don't have a personal computer and Internet connection, visit your local library to use a computer.

Resources

• To learn more about filing tax returns, visit the IRS Web site.