Tax season can be a stressful time for many, especially those who are on a tight budget. Fortunately, there are a number of options available to help you prepare and file your taxes for free. From the IRS VITA Grant Program to the Free File Alliance, there are a variety of resources available to help you get your taxes done without breaking the bank. The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.
On some tax sites, taxpayers also have the option of preparing their own basic federal and state tax return for free using web-based tax preparation software with an IRS-certified volunteer to guide them through the process. The IRS Free File program is a public-private partnership (PPP) between the IRS and Free File Alliance, a coalition of leading tax preparation software companies. Through this program, eligible taxpayers can prepare and electronically file their individual federal tax return for free using tax preparation and filing software. You can also use Direct Pay to pay your individual tax bill or pay estimated taxes from your checking or savings account for free.
In addition to the IRS Free File program, there are other resources available to help you prepare and file your taxes for free. The Tax Advice for Seniors program provides free tax advice and assistance to seniors who need help filing their taxes. The What to Bring program provides free tax preparation services to low-income individuals who need help filing their taxes. Finally, Basic Online Assist offers access to a real tax professional on demand and where you need it. No matter what your financial situation is, there are options available to help you prepare and file your taxes for free.
From the IRS VITA Grant Program to the Free File Alliance, there are a variety of resources available to help you get your taxes done without breaking the bank.