2018 Tax Preparation Assistance Programs

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who generally make $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals.

In addition to VITA, the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program offers free tax help for all taxpayers, particularly those who are 60 years of age and older, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors. The IRS-certified volunteers who provide tax counseling are often retired individuals associated with non-profit organizations that receive grants from the IRS.

To locate a VITA or TCE program site in your area, please click HERE.

 

Important Information

You must bring a copy of last year’s tax returns or a tax return transcript to prepare your taxes. VITA does not have access to last year’s return information. To request your transcript, go to www.IRS.gov and, under “Tools,” click on “Get a tax transcript.” After answering the questions, you can print your transcript, or you can call 1-800-908-9946 and follow the prompts.

You will need to bring the following items:

• Social Security cards for you, your spouse and dependents and/or a Social Security number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration
• Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return
• Current year’s tax package if you received one
• Wage and earning statement(s): Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, from all employers
• Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)
• A copy of last year’s federal and state returns
• Bank routing numbers and account numbers for direct deposit. Blank check or deposit slip required.
• Total paid for day care provider and the day care provider’s tax identifying number (the provider’s Social Security number or the provider’s business Employer Identification Number)
• To file taxes electronically on a married-filing-joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms.

 

For additional assistance or questions about how to locate a tax preparation assistance programs, please contact our Neuro Resource Facilitation team at (855) 444-6443 or at info@biaia.org.