Tax season is here, and many Americans are trying to save money by filing their taxes on their own. While doing taxes can be confusing, there are many options available that won’t cost a thing.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers the Free File option, which is a public-private partnership between the IRS and various tax filing companies. Taxpayers can prepare and file their federal income tax online for free through guided tax preparation, available to those with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less, or through free fillable forms for those with an AGI of $73,000 or more.
Other companies, such as TurboTax and H&R Block, offer free filing for simple tax returns. Military members and their families can also file state and federal taxes for free through MilTax.
In addition to these options, taxpayers can also get free, in-person help from volunteer-run programs, such as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program. These programs offer assistance to people with disabilities, limited English speakers, and those over 60 years old.
It’s Important for taxpayers to be aware of all the tax credits they may qualify for, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC). The deadline to file taxes is April 18, so it’s crucial to file a complete and accurate return in order to avoid delays in receiving a return.
A report by The US Sun on February 15, 2023, contributed to this article.