How to File Your Tax Return for Free

Tax-Aide offers several ways to get your taxes done for free. 

• In person. Bring your documents, sit down and the volunteer will do your return on site in one visit.
• Hybrid service. You arrive at the Tax-Aide location and drop off your documents, which are stored on software provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Tax-Aide volunteers fill out your forms. When you come back, you finalize your return and get a paper printout. Alternatively, returns can be finalized online as long as you have internet service.
• Drop-off service. Just drop off your tax documents with a Tax-Aide volunteer. Other volunteers will fill out your return and file it. You’ll get a printed copy of your tax return when you come back, as well as all your documents.
• Virtual visit. Scan your documents and upload them to IRS software. Tax-Aide volunteers will prepare your return and send it to the Feds electronically. You’ll get your documents and your return electronically as well.
• Self-assistance. Just need someone to help you fill out the form? Tax-Aide will do that, too.
• Do it yourself. Use software provided through the Tax-Aide website.

Naturally, there are some caveats. Tax-Aide service begins in early February. You can find the Tax-Aide location nearest to you now with AARP’s handy Tax-Aide Locator tool. The service is available by appointment in most locations, but some have walk-in service, too.

Tax-Aide can prepare most returns, but not all of them. If you have a small business or must pay the Alternative Minimum Tax, you might be better served elsewhere. Although the program is aimed toward older, low-income taxpayers, anyone can use Tax-Aide regardless of age, and you don’t have to be an AARP member. Did we mention that it’s free?

IRS Free File

The IRS has partnerships with eight tax software companies that allow qualifying taxpayers to file federal tax returns, and in some cases state tax returns, online at no charge. In general, Free File is available to those with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $79,000 or less, depending on the company. The income limits listed below are all for adjusted gross income, which is your gross income minus some deductions, such as student loan interest. This IRS Free File tool can help match you with the right free tax software for your filing needs.

If you have an AGI greater than $79,000, or you like to do your taxes yourself, the IRS offers Free File Fillable Forms, which let you enter your tax information online, do limited tax calculations, print out your file, and file electronically for free with the IRS.

In addition to the free fillable forms, the IRS offers Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), aimed at people who make $64,000 or less, have disabilities or have limited ability to speak English. Use the IRS locator to find a VITA site near you.