If you need help preparing your taxes, the Internal Revenue Service has issued a reminder that there are some free resources available.
IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance programs are being offered at more than 12,000 locations nationwide, where certified volunteers will prepare and e-file federal and state tax returns for qualified residents. These include people making $54,000 or less, those with disabilities, the elderly, and those speaking limited amounts of English. Additionally, the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program is available to help with questions about pensions and retirement issues.
Members of the military and their families can get help through the Armed Forces Tax Council. Its volunteers are trained to deal with military-specific issues, such as combat zone tax benefits. All of these programs have volunteers trained to answer questions involving the Earned Income Tax Credit.
The IRS also provides resources to those planning to file their own tax returns electronically. IRS Free File software is available to taxpayers who earned $62,000 or less in 2015. Those who earned more can use the IRS Free Fillable Forms.
For more information on the various programs and how to schedule a tax preparation appointment, visit IRS.gov.
