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    Free Tax Help

    AARP Tax-Aide and VITA — completely free.

    AARP Tax-Aide

    • Completely free — no AARP membership required.
    • Trained volunteers prepare your taxes.
    • In-person and virtual appointments.
    • Specializes in seniors and moderate-income taxpayers.
    • 5,000+ locations nationwide.
    • Available February through April each year.

    VITA program

    • VITA = Volunteer Income Tax Assistance.
    • IRS-sponsored free tax prep.
    • Free if income under $67,000 (check current limit).
    • Located at libraries, community centers, churches.
    • IRS-certified volunteers prepare returns.
    • Find location at IRS.gov or call 800-906-9887.

    IRS Free File

    • File taxes free online at IRS.gov/freefile.
    • Free if income under $84,000.
    • Guided software — like TurboTax but free.
    • 8 partner companies offer free filing.
    • Available January through October.
    • State return may cost extra — varies.

    What to bring to appointment

    • Photo ID and Social Security cards for all.
    • All W-2, 1099, and SSA-1099 forms.
    • 1099-R if you have retirement distributions.
    • Prior year tax return if available.
    • Bank account info for direct deposit refund.
    • Property tax and mortgage interest statements.

    Senior tax credits

    • Credit for the Elderly and Disabled — check eligibility.
    • Higher standard deduction for age 65+.
    • Medical expense deduction — lower threshold at 65+.
    • State-specific credits — varies by state.
    • Trained volunteers know these credits — ask them.
    • Many seniors overpay taxes by not claiming these.

    How to find help

    • AARP Tax-Aide: AARP.org/taxaide or 888-687-2277.
    • VITA locator: IRS.gov/VITA or 800-906-9887.
    • Or search "VITA tax help near me."
    • Schedule early — spots fill up in February.
    • Virtual appointment available at many sites.
    • Both free — no income limit for AARP.

    Stop paying for tax prep

    Millions of seniors pay $150–$400 to tax preparers for returns that qualify for free preparation through AARP Tax-Aide or VITA. These programs serve seniors with Social Security income, pensions, investment income, and most common situations. The volunteers are IRS-certified and trained for senior-specific situations. Call to schedule an appointment in January before spots fill.