Ah, tax season! It’s that time of year that can make even the bravest among us break into a cold sweat. And if you’re a senior citizen living on a fixed income, the stress can be even more intense. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! There are several tax preparation services that offer free assistance to seniors. Let’s dive into the top options:
1. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program
First up, we have the VITA program. This program is like a superhero for people with low-to-moderate incomes, those with disabilities, limited English proficiency, and senior citizens aged 60 years or older. The IRS-certified volunteers here are like the Avengers of tax preparation, providing free basic income tax return preparation. To find the nearest VITA site, you can call 800-906-9887 or use their online locator tool.
2. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program
Next, we have the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program. This program is like a warm hug for anyone over age 50, regardless of income level. The volunteers here are trained and IRS-certified to handle various types of returns. They offer in-person assistance at more than 5,000 sites nationwide, and there’s also a virtual option available where you can get your taxes done from home using your computer and an internet connection.
3. MyFreeTaxes.com
Last but not least, we have MyFreeTaxes.com. This online platform is like a magic carpet for taxpayers who earned less than $66,000 in adjusted gross income during the year, allowing them to file federal AND state taxes for free. The service includes step-by-step guidance and support throughout the filing process.
So, if you’re a senior citizen looking to reduce your expenses during this taxing period (pun intended), these tips could save you a pretty penny on expensive private preparers while ensuring you’re compliant with all regulations. Plus, leveraging digital channels like MyFreeTaxes will make it easy & convenient, reducing possible travel times when visiting physical locations.