Free Tax Help: How to Use VITA and IRS Free File

What is VITA?

VITA stands for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. It's a free IRS program where trained volunteers help you prepare and file your tax return. You don't pay anything to use VITA.

VITA is especially helpful if you:

• Earned less than [VERIFY: current VITA income threshold for tax year]
• Speak English as a second language
• Have a simple or straightforward tax situation
• Have never filed taxes before
• Need help understanding which credits you qualify for, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit

How to find VITA near you

The IRS maintains a directory of VITA locations. To find a site near you:

1. Visit the IRS VITA locator on the IRS website
2. Enter your zip code
3. Choose a site and call ahead to make an appointment or ask about walk-in hours
4. Bring documents like your Social Security card, photo ID, and records of income and deductions

VITA sites are often located at libraries, community centers, schools, and nonprofit organizations. Many offer help in multiple languages.

What is IRS Free File?

IRS Free File is a program that lets you prepare and file your federal tax return online for free. The IRS partners with tax software companies to offer free versions of their products.

You may qualify for IRS Free File if your income is below a certain level. [VERIFY: current IRS Free File income threshold for tax year]

How to use IRS Free File

1. Go to the IRS Free File website
2. Check if your income level qualifies
3. Choose from the list of free software partners
4. Follow the software's step-by-step interview to enter your information
5. Review your return for accuracy
6. Submit your return electronically to the IRS

The software will guide you through each section and help you claim credits like the EITC and Child Tax Credit.

Which option is right for you?

Choose VITA if:

• You prefer face-to-face help
• You need someone to explain things in person
• You speak a language other than English
• You have questions about which credits you qualify for

Choose IRS Free File if:

• You're comfortable using a computer
• You want to file from home
• You have a simple tax situation
• You prefer to work at your own pace

You can also combine both: use VITA for guidance and have them help you file through IRS Free File.

After you file

Once you've filed your return, you can track your refund status using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool. It shows you the status of your return and when to expect your refund.

If you think you qualify for tax credits, make sure your return includes them. The EITC and Child Tax Credit can give you money back even if you paid no taxes.

Remember

Filing your taxes is free. You should never have to pay to file a federal tax return. Whether you use VITA or IRS Free File, there are no fees.