Eligibility for Free Tax Preparation
Tax preparation can be complicated but completing the forms and submitting them in a timely manner is essential to an individual’s financial wellness. There are several options for free tax help for people who generally make less than $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities, households with limited incomes and limited English-speaking taxpayers who need assistance.
Free Tax Preparation Eligibility
There are several free tax preparation options available. Each program and service has different eligibility options and must be verified individually for qualifications. However, on average, households with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $66,000 or less may qualify for free tax preparation and filing. Eligibility criteria can change from year to year, so check the options for eligibility with the service you choose prior to utilizing, and always be sure to check http://irs.gov.
3.6 Million
Number of tax returns prepared by volunteers in 2017, providing over $4 billion in refunds.
$273
Average savings for a taxpayer as a result of accessing free tax preparation.
Free Tax Preparation Eligibility
There are several free tax preparation options available. Each program and service has different eligibility options and must be verified individually for qualifications. However, on average, households with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $66,000 or less may qualify for free tax preparation and filing. Eligibility criteria can change from year to year, so check the options for eligibility with the service you choose prior to utilizing, and always be sure to check http://irs.gov.
3.6 Million
Number of tax returns prepared by volunteers in 2017, providing over $4 billion in refunds.
$273
Average savings for a taxpayer as a result of accessing free tax preparation.
Free Tax Preparation Options
The IRS, in conjunction with a variety of nonprofit organizations and tax software vendors, provide free tax preparation services to qualifying taxpayers. Free Tax Preparation options include e-filing with direct deposit of refunds – the fastest, most secure way for taxpayers to file their return and receive refunds.
Eligible taxpayers can visit designated locations to have their taxes prepared and filed, on-site, free of charge.
To find a local site providing services in your local community visit: United Way 2-1-1
Programs in your local community may include:
- VITA – Volunteer Income Tax Assistance: Generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls and other convenient locations across the country. VITA offers free tax help to people who generally make $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities and limited-English speaking taxpayers who need assistance. The IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to these qualified individuals. Use the IRS VITA Locator Tool.
- AARP Tax Aide: The AARP Foundation runs the Tax-Aide program, which provides free assistance with tax preparation at more than 5,000 locations nationwide with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. Tax-Aid volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year to make sure they know the latest changes to the tax code.
With this free tax preparation option, taxpayers use a do-it-yourself model to prepare their own returns with the assistance of a certified volunteer and self-preparation software. Assistance may be provided via tax coach, helpline or online chat services.
MyFreeTaxes provides self-paced, step-by-step guidance to file tax returns online.
IRS Freefile is available in two formats:
- FreeFile software – Self-paced, step-by-step guidance to file tax returns online.
- FreeFile fillable forms – Fillable forms for tax filers to complete their taxes and e-file.
What is the EITC and who is eligible?
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is the federal and state income tax credit available to low- and moderate-income (LMI) working families and individuals. Often called the nation’s best, long-term economic stimulus program, EITC is the largest federal support program for low-income individuals and families and helps over 15 million low-income wage earners each year.
Free Tax Preparation Services
People with Disabilities
Free tax preparation introduces financial education to the disability community both nationally and locally.
Job Seekers
Free tax preparation expands services in organizations who help job seekers in an easy and cost-effective way.
Questions?
National Disability Institute works to improve the financial health and well-being of people across the spectrum of disability.
If you have questions or want more information about our projects, please call (202) 296-2040 or email info@ndi-inc.org.
