Paying a tax preparer can take a real bite out of a refund, and many people leave money unclaimed because they do not know which credits they qualify for. Free help is available for people with low to moderate incomes, and it is delivered by IRS-certified volunteers. This guide explains the main options and how to avoid common traps.
Where to start
- Use the IRS “Find a VITA/TCE site” tool on IRS.gov, or call the IRS toll-free at 800-906-9887.
- Check the income limits listed for the current tax season, since the IRS updates them.
- Gather your documents, then book an appointment early, because sites fill up in February and March.
VITA: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
VITA offers free basic tax return preparation to people who generally earn at or below an income limit set by the IRS, to people with disabilities, and to taxpayers with limited English. Trained, IRS-certified volunteers prepare and e-file your return. Sites are often located in libraries, community centers, schools and nonprofit offices, and some offer virtual appointments.
TCE: Tax Counseling for the Elderly
TCE provides free tax help to all taxpayers, with special attention to people age 60 and older. Volunteers often have expertise in questions older adults commonly face, such as pensions, retirement income and Social Security benefits. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the largest TCE program, and you do not have to be an AARP member to use it.
IRS Free File and other free filing options
If you prefer to prepare your own return, the IRS works with partners to offer free guided tax software to taxpayers under an income limit, and fillable forms for anyone. Always reach these services by starting at IRS.gov, not through search ads, so you do not end up on a look-alike site that charges you. Offerings can change from year to year, so check the IRS site for what is available this season.
Credits that can put money back in your pocket
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). A refundable credit for working people with low to moderate incomes. Millions of eligible workers do not claim it every year. The IRS EITC Assistant can tell you if you qualify.
- Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents. Available to eligible families with qualifying children or dependents.
- Child and Dependent Care Credit. Helps offset child care or adult care costs that let you work.
- Saver’s Credit. A credit for eligible workers who contribute to a retirement account.
- Education credits. Such as the American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning credits.
Eligibility rules, amounts and income limits change, so rely on the current IRS pages or a VITA volunteer for exact numbers.
What to bring to your appointment
- Photo ID for you and your spouse, if filing together
- Social Security cards or ITIN letters for everyone on the return
- All income forms, such as W-2s, 1099s and unemployment statements
- Last year’s tax return, if you have it
- Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit
- Records of child care costs, tuition forms and health coverage forms, if relevant
Watch out for these traps
- Preparers who charge a percentage of your refund. This is a warning sign.
- Anyone who will not sign your return. Paid preparers must sign and include their preparer tax identification number.
- Promises of a bigger refund before they have seen your documents.
- Refund advance loans and similar products that carry fees and are not necessary to get your refund quickly. Direct deposit with e-filing is usually the fastest route.
Keep more of your money all year
Filing correctly is one of the best money-saving steps available. For more ideas, see our guide to 25 practical ways to cut your monthly bills, and for local help of every kind, see free community services you might not know about.