How to Get Free Tax Help

Free tax help is available from local service organizations, volunteers, software, online sites and even the IRS. For basic questions about tax forms and tax filing, the IRS site is the most reliable, although it is complicated for some. Online forums devoted to tax issues can also be helpful, but answers are not always from professionals and your post may remain unanswered if your question is complex. There are ways to get in-person tax help, often the better option. Follow these tips to find the free tax help you need.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Free tax help

   Use the IRS website for free tax help, starting with a search using keywords related to your tax issues. The majority of questions can be answered by searching the comprehensive IRS site for resources and publications relative to your situation.

2. 
    
   Call the IRS

   Call the IRS for free tax help. The IRS is more than happy to help you figure what forms you need, what to do in certain circumstances, and how to calculate the income tax you owe. (For IRS toll-free numbers, see Resources, below).

3. Contact your local IRS office by looking in the government pages in your phone book, or online through the IRS site. Make an appointment, or stop by the office to have your tax questions answered and receive the free tax help you need.

4. Look into the TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) program to see if you qualify. You can locate a center near you by browsing the AARP website and receive free tax help for yourself or elderly relatives.

5. Contact your local community services office to find out about free tax help in your area. Some tax prepares also have this information.

Tips & Warnings

• See Resources, below, for more information on free tax help.
• The IRS tax help line phone number is 1-800-829-1040.
• The IRS number to order free tax forms and publications is 1-800-829-3676.

Resources

• Get your refund in as little as 9 days. E-file with TurboTax today. It's Easy.
• Free tax help from the IRS

[Scarlett9284]

on 12/7/2008 Excellent ideas! Anything free is worth looking into... especially with something that can be as confusing as taxes! Thanks!

[TheHabe]

on 12/7/2008 I used to work at an IRS office and we really were there to help people. Great article.

[blingaling]

on 12/6/2008 Thanks for the good ideas, esp. the tip about help for the elderly.

[dlcass]

on 12/6/2008 Those are excellent ideas. Most people are afraid of the IRS and think that if they contact them to ask a question, they will get audited. It isn't true. It's a much more user friendly place then it used to be.