The IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals, including:
- Help with filling out forms
- What to do if you owe money
- If you qualify for the EITC tax credit
If you live in California, you may qualify for free tax help from these programs:
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), has operated for over 50 years offering tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, if you:
- Make $57,000 or less, generally
- Have disabilities, or
- Speak limited English
- Are active duty or retired military personnel, or a dependent
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE), program offers free tax help specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors, if you're:
- At least 60 years old.
Use the VITA/TCE locator to find in-person help with your tax return.
What to bring with you...
Before you go to your local tax help site, make sure you bring the correct papers and information.