Things You'll Need:
- Tax records for the current filing year
- Copy of last year's federal and state returns
- Bank account and routing number for direct deposit
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Step 1
FreeFile. If your adjusted gross income is under $54,000, you are eligible to participate in the IRS FreeFile program. Just go to IRS.gov; click on the "FreeFile" link, and choose one of the participating companies from the list to get started. Not sure which company to choose? Click on the "Guide me to a company" button, and the site will help you decide which company will work best for your needs.
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Step 2
Free Tax Prep Software. Make too much to qualify for the FreeFile program? Then, give free tax-prep software a try. TaxCut Basic, TurboTax Free Edition and Tax ACT Standard are good options if your taxes are fairly straightforward.
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Step 3
AARP. The AARP Tax-Aide program offers free tax help to low- and middle-income individuals, with a focus on those age 60 and over. Visit their website to find a tax site near you and to schedule an appointment.
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Step 4
Military. If you are in the military, you and your family qualify for free tax prep through the Armed Forces Tax Council. Check with your current installation for more information.
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Step 5
VITA. Looking for even more free file options? Check with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. They offer tax-prep sites all over the country for low- to moderate-income individuals and can be reached at (800) 829-1040.
Comments
vallain said
on 7/19/2008 Many public libraries schedule free income tax help (usually with AARP or VITA) at their site. Convenient location, good parking, but sometimes have to wait awhile for a turn. They even file it electronically for you to get a quicker return.