Get tax filing assistance from skilled VITA volunteers
Tax season is upon us, and if you’re in need of tax preparation assistance, you’re in luck. The IRS offers two volunteer-based programs to qualified taxpayers.
VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) provides tax filing assistance to any taxpayer who meets any of the following criteria:
• Earn $54,000 or less per year
• Disabled
• Limited English proficiency speaker and will need help in reading and interpreting tax forms and tax return instructions.
VITA sites are found in community centers, shopping malls, senior centers, libraries and other community gathering spots. IRS-trained volunteers will help you file a basic tax return at no charge to you.
To locate a VITA site, call (800) 906-9887 or use the online locator to find a site near you.
Help For Taxpayers Over 60
If you’re over 60 and have retirement or pension-related tax concerns, the TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) program is available to you.
IRS-trained volunteers, in cooperation with the AARP Foundation will assist you in preparing and filing a basic tax return, much like they do in the VITA program.
To find the nearest TCE site, call (888) 227-7669 anytime between January and April to find the nearest site and/or to schedule your appointment.
To locate a TCE site online, use the AARP Tax Aide locator.
Getting Organized is Key
Regardless of which program you choose, getting organized ahead of time is essential to filing an accurate and timely return.
Limited-income taxpayers, disabled taxpayers and those with limited English skills are welcome to participate in the VITA program. Older taxpayers also have access to IRS-certified volunteers to help them file their tax returns.
If you are in any of the above groups and prefer to self-file, just look for the “self prep” designation in the VITA/TCE site listing.