We’re less than two weeks away from when you need to file your taxes. If you’re in need of some help to meet that April 17 deadline, you may want to take advantage of free tax services.
FEDERAL, LOCAL PROGRAMS HELP WITH FREE TAX HELP
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free help to people. Dozens of sites are available throughout Kansas. There are some qualifications for those who want to use it. You must:
• Make $54,000 or less
• Be 60 or older
• Or speak limited English.
For more details on what the program will or won’t provide, click here. There are several items you will want to bring with you, including your photo ID; Social Security Cards for you, your spouse and dependents; W-2 and other forms for filing; a copy of last year’s federal and state returns. For a full list of what you should bring to your local VITA or TCE site, click here
The United Way of the Plains is also assisting people in person and online for tax help. It’s geared for low-to-moderate incomes. Services are offered by appointment in Sedgwick, Butler, Cowley and Marion counties. For information to find a location near you, dial 211. For more details on the United Way’s program, click here.
You can also visit MyFreeTaxes to file your taxes online for free.
FREE TAX HELP FOR SENIORS
There’s also the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program. It offers free tax help for all taxpayers, particularly those who are 60 or older. It specializes in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors.
For the VITA and TCE programs, people are asked to give the site a call to check on hours and to see if they can book an appointment. You can call (800) 906-9887 to find a site near you. You can also check the sites by clicking here.
The AARP’s Tax-Aide provides free tax assistance to low-and-middle income residents. Special attention is given to those 60 and older. You do not have to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use the service. Volunteers are trained, in cooperation with the IRA, to offer you help. You can find details by clicking here.