Get Help with Your Taxes

If you need help with your taxes, you may qualify for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). The IRS also offers free online tools to make it easier to do your taxes.

Find out if you qualify for the following free tax return preparation services:

• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) - VITA offers free tax help to people who generally make $60,000 or less, people with disabilities, and taxpayers with limited English. IRS-certified volunteers explain tax credits and prepare a basic tax return with electronic filing.
• Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) - TCE focuses on questions about pensions and retirement-related issues. It offers free tax help to all taxpayers, particularly to those who are 60 years old or older.

Use the VITA/TCE locator tool to find an open office near you. To learn more about the services of VITA and TCE and what you should bring to your appointment, use the VITA/TCE checklist.

The IRS provides free publications, forms, and tools to help taxpayers:

• Help and Resource Center - Learn about the many free services and resources that the IRS offers to taxpayers.

• Interactive Tax Assistant - Use this tool to find answers to your general tax questions.
• Tax Tools - Find interactive forms, calculators, and other helpful tools.
• Choose a Tax Preparer - Get tips for finding a tax preparer with the credentials and experience to handle your tax needs. Learn how to file a complaint if your preparer has acted improperly.
• Forms and Publications - Get tax forms and instructions. You can also search for specific titles or product numbers. The IRS also offers forms and publications for taxpayers with visual impairments.

For the fastest information, the IRS recommends finding answers to your tax questions online. You can also call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or TTY: 1-800-829-4059. This option works best for less complex questions. Keep in mind that wait times to speak with a representative may be long. You may also contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you’re having a tax problem.