Tax Return Preparation and Counseling

If you need help filing your taxes, you may be able to get free support. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has 2 programs that offer free tax help and tax preparation to older adults, people with disabilities, people with low income, and those who don’t speak very much English.

These programs are Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA). Both are staffed by volunteers and cost nothing if you qualify. The TCE and VITA volunteers who prepare the tax returns are trained to know IRS rules.

What is Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)?

Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) is a free service that helps people age 60 and older with their taxes.

Trained volunteers can help you:

• Prepare and file your tax return

• Understand tax rules

• Get answers to your tax questions

You can get free help with your taxes during tax season, from January 1 to April 15 each year. Some types of support are available all year.

What is Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)?

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is a free service that helps some people file their taxes.

VITA is for people who:

• Need help with their tax return

• Make $69,000 a year or less

• May need help with English

Trained volunteers help you prepare and file basic tax returns for free. They will explain tax credits and answer any questions you have about pensions, retirement, and other tax matters.

How can I get free tax help from these programs?

Each year during tax filing season, TCE and VITA locations are set up across the country at difference places in the community. These include libraries, malls, banks, community centers, and senior centers.

Use the IRS free tax help finder tool to find out what TCE and VITA programs are available in your local area. You can also call 1-800-906-9887.