Free Tax Assistance Programs

There are 2 major programs that assist put together seniors with their taxes freed from fee: the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, or VITA, and Tax Counseling for the Elderly. Both applications are operated via the IRS and rely closely on volunteer help.

1. VITA Program: This is a program designed for people which have low to slight ranges of profits, normally making $67,000 or much less. It additionally assists those with disabilities and non-English speakers. The VITA volunteers are certified by the IRS, who may indeed ensure that one files basic tax returns so that he is able to secure all credits and deductions that he is entitled to.

2. TCE Program: The TCE focuses on people who are 60 and over, and, in particular, pension and income concerns about retirement are addressed. Volunteers for this program are also certified by the IRS; therefore, tax counseling is likewise offered, reaching even more older adults.

Both VITA and TCE services are generally available from February to April every year. The VITA/TCE Locator Tool on the IRS website, or by phone at 1-800-906-9887, will help seniors find nearby service sites.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Another important resource is the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program, the largest volunteer run free tax assistance service in the nation. Although each person can make use of this tool, the meant clients are those 50-plus years of age with low to mild degrees of earnings.

1. Services Provided: AARP Tax-Aide provides in-person assistance and some virtual sites early in February through mid-April. All volunteers must attend annual training and are certified each year by the IRS, thus they are current on existing tax law and changes.

2. Appointment System: Due to demand, many AARP Tax-Aide locations will require an appointment. Seniors can locate a nearby site using the AARP Foundation locator tool or by calling 1-888-227-7669.

Online Resources and Tools

In addition to face-to-face help, seniors can get the tax assist they want from several online tools provided by the IRS:

1. IRS Free File: The IRS Free File program permits people with an AGI of $79,000 or less to put together and e-file their federal tax goes back online at no fee through the use of tax guidance and filing software program provided with the aid of collaborating software companies.

2. Interactive Tax Assistant: The online device helps in responding to unique tax questions relying on a person’s scenario.

3. Tax Information for Seniors: The IRS has tried to provide a portion of the web site with information on the taxation of retirement income and available credits aimed at older adults.

Additional Resource Helps

Seniors may also contact a local Area Agency on Aging, as many agencies offer additional resources or referrals for free or low-cost tax preparation services in their area. These agencies can link seniors with more localized programs that may not be widely advertised.

Preparing for Your Appointment

In preparation for these free tax assistance services, seniors should gather the following documents in advance of an appointment:

1. Identification: e.g., driver’s license or state ID

2. Social Security cards for all family members

3. Income statements: W-2s, 1099s

4. Documentation of any other income-pensions, Social Security benefits

5. Proof of expenses that may qualify for deductions-medical expenses, property taxes

Conclusion

Such programs as VITA, TCE, and AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offer critical services during the preparation of taxes for seniors. This will help in empowering the older adults with confidence as they file and pay their taxes due and get all the benefits that they are entitled to without any additional cost.