Introduction
Filing taxes can be a daunting task for anyone, but it can be especially challenging for senior citizens. Many seniors are on fixed incomes and may not have the financial resources to hire a professional tax preparer. These challenges can be further compounded by the complexity of the tax code, making it difficult for seniors to navigate on their own. Fortunately, there are a number of resources available to seniors that offer free tax assistance. In this article, we will explore where senior citizens can get their taxes done for free.
Top Free Tax Filing Services for Senior Citizens
There are a number of tax filing services that offer free services to seniors. Some of the top services include TurboTax, TaxAct, and H&R Block. These services are user-friendly and accurate, making them a great option for seniors who prefer to file their taxes online.
Local Community Programs for Senior Tax Assistance
Many local community organizations offer free tax assistance services for seniors. These programs may be run by nonprofit organizations, senior centers, or local government agencies. To find out if there is a program in your area, you can check with your local senior center, library, or city hall. Some of these programs may require an appointment, so it’s important to plan ahead.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is a free tax service that is run by the IRS. The program is staffed by IRS-certified volunteers who provide free basic income tax return preparation to seniors and other taxpayers who earn $57,000 or less per year. The program is designed to help taxpayers who cannot prepare their own tax returns due to disability, language barriers, or other limitations. To sign up for the VITA program, you can visit the IRS website or call the toll-free number.
AARP Tax-Aide Program
The AARP Tax-Aide program is a free tax service that is run by AARP volunteers. The program is specifically targeted to seniors and is available to anyone over the age of 50. The program is staffed by volunteers who are trained and certified by the IRS. This program is available to low and moderate-income taxpayers. To access the AARP Tax-Aide program, you can visit the AARP website or call the toll-free number.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program
The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program is a free tax service that is run by the IRS. The program is designed to provide assistance to taxpayers who are over the age of 60. The program is staffed by volunteers who are trained and certified by the IRS. The TCE program provides free tax assistance and preparation to seniors and focuses on tax issues unique to seniors such as pensions, retirement benefits and Social Security. To access the TCE program, you can visit the IRS website or call the toll-free number.
State-Specific Programs for Senior Tax Assistance
In addition to federal programs, many states offer tax assistance programs for seniors. These programs may include state tax filing assistance, property tax assistance, and other related services. To find out about available programs in your state, you can check with your state tax agency or department of aging.
Conclusion
There are a host of resources available for seniors who need help filing their taxes. From federal programs like VITA and TCE to statewide initiatives and local community organizations, seniors have many options to choose from. We encourage seniors to take advantage of these resources and to seek help if they need it. Filing taxes can be a stressful experience, but with these resources, seniors can breathe a little easier knowing that they have the support they need to get the job done.
