Recommended by IRS

Free tax return preparation for qualifying taxpayers

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free tax help for taxpayers who qualify.

IRS tax volunteers
Volunteer to help your community by preparing taxes free of charge with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Programs.
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Checklist for free tax return preparation

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly Programs offer free tax help for taxpayers who qualify.
General Information
Individuals

Free tax return preparation for qualifying taxpayers

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs prepare tax returns for free for qualifying taxpayers.
General Information
Individuals, Volunteer Preparers

Free IRS programs are here to help taxpayers prepare and file returns

Tax Tip 2022-18, February 2, 2022 — It’s a new tax season. While some things are different, one thing that remains the same is, taxpayers can have their taxes prepared for free through one of two long-standing IRS programs.
General Information
Individuals

IRS-certified volunteers make a difference for millions of taxpayers

Tax Tip 2022-161, October 20, 2022 — Every year, IRS-certified volunteers help millions of taxpayers across the country file their tax returns. Volunteering is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to make a difference in their community, learn about tax preparation and earn continuing education credits.
General Information
Individuals, Tax Professionals

How to apply for an ITIN

Find what you need to apply for an individual tax identification number (ITIN). You can apply by mail or in person.
General Information
Individuals

Signing up to be an IRS-certified volunteer is a great way to help people

Tax Tip 2023-120, Nov. 6, 2023 — IRS-certified volunteers are the unsung heroes of tax filing season. Every year, they step up to help taxpayers successfully file their tax returns. Anyone who wants to make a difference in their community, learn about tax preparation and earn continuing education credits should consider volunteering.
General Information
Volunteer Preparers, Individuals

Filing extensions and tax return preparation assistance for military personnel stationed abroad or in a combat zone

If you are in the military stationed abroad or are in a combat zone during the tax filing season, you may qualify for certain automatic extensions related to the filing and paying of your federal income taxes.
General Information
Military

Eligible seniors have many free tax filing options

Tax Tip 2024-05, Feb. 12, 2024 — Whether they prepare and file their own tax returns or get in-person help, there are easy, secure and free tax filing options for seniors.
General Information
Individuals

IRS-certified volunteers can help their community during tax season

Tax Tip 2025-01, Jan. 6, 2025 — Every filing season, IRS-certified volunteers help qualified individuals file federal tax returns. Anyone who wants to make a difference in their community can help by volunteering with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or Tax Counseling for the Elderly Programs.
General Information
Individuals, Tax Professionals, Volunteer Preparers

E-file options

Learn about IRS e-file options, including Free File, to electronically file your individual tax returns.
General Information
Individuals