Free Tax Preparation for Mid and Low-Income Families

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Free Tax Filing for Low Income – Well, it is that time of year again.  Tax season can be stressful because tax preparation is not necessarily cut and dry.  The good news is that you may be entitled to low-income assistance filing your taxes.


There are support services, such as advice on applying for income tax credits, where to file for free, new deductions, and how to file online on the IRS website, etc.   There are also locations where certifies IRS volunteers will sit down with you to do your taxes and answer any questions you may have.

Free Tax Filing for Low Income

It is just a great idea to get a professional’s help to make sure your taxes are done properly, and you can receive the greatest refund you are entitled to.  No fuss…no muss.  These certified volunteers know the tax laws very well and can do the work without the risk of mistakes or filing penalties.

If there is a problem with your filing, the preparer will address them for you with the IRS.  It seems like a smart idea, especially with all the new changes to the tax laws.  When you qualify, you will have access to free filing software and other services.

Free E-Filing with the IRS

Go online and answer the questions to find out which online software to use.  If you are not sure which online software to use, you can choose, use the Free tax filing Online Lookup Tool.  Your financial answers will determine which software to use. You can prepare and file your own basic state and federal taxes using the sites below.

When you used their software, you can also get assistance from an IRS tax professional.   The option is available at the VITA locations listed below.  You can also work as a volunteer to help low- and moderate-income families with their taxes?  The IRS will train you.  Find out more at the IRS website.

These are the states that provided free tax filing, Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia, along with the District of Columbia. File online with IRS.


  • TaxAct
  • 1040NOW
  • TurboTax
  • H&R Block
  • FreeTaxUSA
  • FileYourTaxes.com
  • Free 1040 Tax Return
  • ezTaxReturn.com
  • Online Taxes at OLT.com

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

VITA is a federal grant program created to provide services to low-income, elderly, disabled underserved communities.  To qualify to file with VITA, you must apply for a grant, make less than $69,000 per year or less, be 65 years old or older, or have a disability.  VITA makes sure you receive all tax credits you qualify for.  This may not be appropriate if your tax situation is complicated.

If you choose to file with a commercial preparer, you would have to pay the additional cost for extra services.  When you file with VITA, these additional services are free.  Some of the VITA sites will not be listed on the IRS VITA site locator after April 17th, 2018.  Please call the sites directly.  Find a VITA Volunteer in your state.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Many people are aware of the many benefits AARP offers seniors.  One of the benefits they provide is tax assistance with moderate and low-income seniors.  AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has over 5,000 locations nationwide.  Services are free, and you don’t have to have an AARP membership. Call 888-687-2277, or go to Find help near you.

Tax Counseling for the Elderly

Free tax filing for people 60 years old or older.  Many seniors are more comfortable sitting down face to face rather than doing things online.  This is why this program allows you to visit a location near you.  Talk to tax professionals that can advise and help with tax preparation.  Do a search on benefits.gov for more information.

Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program (TCE)

In 1978, the Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program established this support to provide tax assistance to the elderly—this program, like the others mentioned here, this program helps older people with advice and tax returns.  Again you have access to a trained and certified counselor making preparation easy and accurate. (Estimate your refund)


Beware of sites that claim to provide free tax preparation only to find out you are being charged in the end.

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Pamela Lipscomb

We understand that finding financial assistance can be overwhelming and stressful. Our site provides information on potential programs, eligibility guidelines, and more. Please remember that this information is for guidance only, and we cannot guarantee assistance. For personalized advice and support, we strongly encourage you to consult with financial advisors, legal professionals, or the program providers directly.

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