There is much to be said about tax refunds across the internet from how to file to how to spend. Here are my tips for finding free tax preparation this tax season.
Free eFile
We all love the word free and filing your income tax return is no different. You can file your federal tax return online for free at several places including:
TaxAct.com
TaxCut.com
CitizenTaxFree.com
TurboTax.com
Free Local Help
If you prefer to have someone else complete your income tax forms you have a couple of options too.
The first one is your local IRS office. During tax season you can go to the office in your city and have the tax preparers there (all employees of the IRS) complete and file your tax returns for free. There is an income limit so be sure to find out if you qualify. The may be a bit of a wait but it is worth it since it's free. Visit irs.gov or your local phone book to find the office near you.
Another free place is the VITA-run organizations. From the IRS website:
"Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program
The VITA Program offers free tax help to low- to moderate-income (generally, $42,000 and below) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Certified volunteers sponsored by various organizations receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. VITA sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations. Most locations also offer free electronic filing. To locate the nearest VITA site, call 1-800-829-1040."
So that is the round up of free ways to file your tax returns. Be sure to double check and remember that you may have to pay a fee to file your state taxes if applicable. Some states have free e-filing as well so check you state's Tax Revenue website.
So how do you file your taxes? Do you have any warnings for the rest of us?
No comments:
Post a Comment