Filing taxes can be a daunting task for many seniors, especially those living on a fixed income. Fortunately, there are several options available for seniors to get their taxes done at little or no cost. Here’s a guide to some of the resources available, most of which are just a phone call away:
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program
- Overview: The VITA program offers free tax help to people who generally make $58,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their tax returns.
- Services: Trained volunteers provide basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals.
- Locations: VITA sites are located in community centers, libraries, schools, and other convenient locations across the country.
- How to Find a VITA Site: Use the IRS’s VITA Locator Tool on their website or call 1-800-906-9887 to find a nearby VITA site.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program
- Overview: The TCE program provides free tax help to people age 60 and older.
- Services: Trained volunteers specialize in pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors.
- Locations: TCE sites are typically operated by AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers.
- How to Find a TCE Site: Use the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Site Locator Tool on their website or call 1-888-227-7669 to find a nearby TCE site.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program
- Overview: The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation assistance to low- and moderate-income taxpayers, with a special focus on those age 50 and older.
- Services: Trained volunteers help taxpayers with basic tax return preparation and electronic filing.
- Locations: Tax-Aide sites are located in community centers, libraries, schools, and other accessible locations.
- How to Find a Tax-Aide Site: Use the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Site Locator Tool on their website or call 1-888-227-7669 to find a nearby Tax-Aide site.
Other Options
- Local Senior Centers: Some senior centers offer free or low-cost tax preparation services for seniors.
- Online Tax Preparation Software: Some software providers offer free or low-cost tax preparation software for individuals with simple tax situations.
Seniors have several options available to get their taxes done for little or no cost. Whether through the VITA program, the TCE program, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, or other local resources, seniors can find assistance to ensure their taxes are filed accurately and on time. It’s important to take advantage of these resources to avoid unnecessary expenses and potential tax issues.