April 15 has a tendency to sneak up on us. Here’s where to get FREE tax prep help now from the IRS, and from the AARP for those of us 55+ before the line is out the door.
The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help for those who earn $52,000 a year or less and need assistance filing their return. The IRS program is normally offered at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, and other public locations.
In 2015, more than 90,000 volunteers are expected to participate nationwide. Use the VITA Locator Tool or call 1-800-906-9887 to find the site closest to you, including locations here in NYC and the Tri-State area.
The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program is geared toward those 60+ who have questions or need help filing their returns. Volunteers, usually through nonprofit groups, offer their time via a grant from the IRS. To locate the nearest TCE site, including in New York City and the Tri-State area, use the AARP Site Locator Tool or call 888-227-7669.
In New York City, low income, elderly and self-employed taxi drivers can get free tax prep help from Food Bank’s Tax Assistance Program. See this recent NYCOTC posting for full information.
What do you think about this? We welcome your comments.