The clock is officially ticking, it’s time to do your taxes. Confused? Need help? You may qualify for some free tax preparation assistance from the IRS. The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offer free tax help if you qualify. So, how do you qualify?

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance):

The VITA Program offers free tax help to low- to moderate-income (generally, $39,000 and below) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Certified volunteers sponsored by various organizations receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. To locate the nearest VITA site, call 1-800-829-1040.

Then press 1, then 5, and ask for help finding your nearest VITA site.

TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly):

The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program provides free tax help to people age 60 and older. Trained volunteers from non-profit organizations provide free tax counseling and basic income tax return preparation for senior citizens. For more information on TCE call 1-800-829-1040.

Military Families:

Marines, airmen, soldiers, sailors, and guardsmen, and their families worldwide receive free tax preparation assistance at offices within their installations. These VITA sites provide free tax advice, tax preparation, and assistance to military members and their families. They are trained and equipped to address military specific tax issues, such as combat zone tax benefits and the effect of the new Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) guidelines.

What to bring:

Proof of identification

Social Security Cards for you, your spouse and dependents and/or a Social Security Number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration

Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return

Current year’s tax package if you received one

Wage and earning statement(s) Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, from all employers

Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)

A copy of last year’s Federal and State returns if available

Bank Routing Numbers and Account Numbers for Direct Deposit

Total paid for day care provider and the day care provider’s tax identifying number (the provider’s Social Security Number or the provider’s business Employer Identification Number)

To file taxes electronically on a married filing joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms.

—MEGHANN MARCO

Free Tax Return Preparation For You by Volunteers [IRS]
(Photo: funca88)

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.