1 Month Left to Take Advantage of Free File from IRS

The Free File Alliance today encouraged eligible taxpayers to take advantage of its free tax preparation and e-filing services before the April 15 tax deadline. More than 98 million taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $56,000 or less can visit the IRS Web site to receive step-by-step help preparing and e-filing their federal taxes through the Free File Alliance.

“With the tax deadline rapidly approaching, Free File can help taxpayers complete their taxes quickly and easily with no cost,” said Tim Hugo, executive director of the Free File Alliance. “The Free File Alliance offers vital assistance for Americans struggling in today’s economic climate. The program can even deliver a refund in as few as 10 days, giving Americans the cash they need to pay the bills.”

Taxpayers who would like to take advantage of the Free File service can visit the IRS website, www.irs.gov. By clicking on the “free file” icon on the left side of the page, users can find e-filing offers from participating companies and choose the one that best fits their needs. Taxpayers are then transferred to the company's website, where they receive the necessary help to prepare, complete and electronically file their federal income tax returns, just as they would on paper.

The Free File service is simple and user-friendly, and if used with direct deposit, it can provide a refund in as little as 10 days. Three of the 19 participating software companies now offer the service in Spanish.

AARP Tax-Aide to Provide Free Tax Preparation

AARP Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax counseling and preparation service has opened its South Carolina sites. Tax-Aide helps low- and middle-income taxpayers with special attention to those ages 60 and older taxpayers with their federal and state returns between Feb 1 and April 15 each year.

AARP Tax-Aide offers free tax preparation and filling for individuals with emphasis on serving older residents. Across South Carolina there are more than 60 AARP Tax- Aide locations. A majority of sites offer electronic filling allowing Tax-Aide clients who are receiving refunds to have a quick and safe transaction.

“AARP Tax-Aide volunteers have been trained and are up-to-date with the latest IRS guidelines which enable them to provide exceptional service to their clients,” said Jane Wiley, AARP South Carolina State Director. Last year, AARP Tax-Aide volunteers prepared more than 20,000 returns in South Carolina.

To find an AARP Tax-Aide site, call 1-888-227-7669 or on the internet. Some sites do require that you make an appointment and offer electronic filling. Before going to an AARP Tax-Aide site, make sure that you have all of your personal information including W-2 forms.

AARP Tax-Aide is administered through the AARP Foundation in cooperation with the IRS. The AARP Foundation is AARP's affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide security, protection and empowerment for low-income older persons in need.