The last day to file your 2018 income tax return is Monday, April 15. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers resources to answer federal tax questions and address topics relevant to older taxpayers. You can also find out if you qualify for federal tax credits for the elderly.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) offers free tax help to taxpayers 60 years and older now through April 15 each year. IRS-certified volunteers specialize in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to elders. They are often retired individuals associated with nonprofit organizations that receive grants from the IRS. TCE volunteers frequently travel to meet elders in public locations that are convenient for them.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) offers free tax help to people who generally make $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and taxpayers with limited English who need assistance. These IRS-certified volunteers can provide information about tax credits and prepare a basic tax return with electronic filing.
To locate the nearest VITA or TCE site near you, use the VITA Locator Tool or call 1-800-906-9887. Use the VITA/TCE checklist to learn more about the services and what you should bring to your appointment. For the fastest information, the IRS recommends finding answers to your tax questions online. You can also call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
If an IRS program isn’t available in your area, the American Association of Retired People (AARP) Foundation Tax-Aide offers free tax preparation assistance beginning February 1. You don’t have to be an AARP member, and there’s no age requirement to get tax help from their IRS-certified volunteers. To locate the nearest AARP TCE Tax-Aide site use the AARP Site Locator Tool or call 888-227-7669.
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