Free Tax Help for Iowans

Two people looking at financial records

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to low- and moderate-income Iowans. This program makes filing taxes simple while ensuring you claim all eligible credits.

Certified volunteers use secure software to assist with tax returns and help you claim important credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and Credit for the Elderly or Disabled. The service is available to working families, older adults, people with disabilities, and those with limited English skills.

Tax help is offered in person or online, depending on location, through partnerships with organizations like Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. To find a nearby site, visit the IRS Free Tax Prep website, irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/, or call 1-800-906-9887.

How It Works:

  1. Verify your ID and fill out an intake form.
  2. Your tax documents are scanned and sent for preparation.
  3. Your return is ready in two weeks.
  4. Review and sign your return.
  5. Your returns are filed electronically, for free.

Source: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, go.iastate.edu/HVJRMJ

VITA—Volunteer Income Tax Assistance

Person working with computer and calculator

Need help preparing and filing your income tax return? The VITA program has been helping people for more than 50 years. VITA sites offer free services to people who need assistance.

You may qualify for the VITA program if you:

  • Make $60,000 or less per year
  • Have a disability
  • Are a limited English-speaking taxpayer

In addition to VITA, free tax help for persons 60 years of age and older is available. Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) specializes in questions about pensions and retirement.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offices provide services in some areas. Locate a
VITA site near you, go.iastate.edu/CGRZ9D, or call AARP volunteer tax preparers at 1-800-906-9887.

Source: Internal Revenue Service, www.irs.gov/individuals/

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