Tax season is once again upon us and for many Iowans, the process of filing taxes is a daunting one. Iowans in need of assistance may be able to take advantage of free or reduced-price tax preparation services. Please keep reading to learn more.
What are the advantages of the IRS Free File Program?
In addition to the cost savings, this online program walks taxpayers through the filing process to make filing your taxes simple and fast. Sending tax forms electronically reduces the chance that important documents are lost in the mail and in many cases, could mean Iowans receive a return faster. With computer filing through the IRS or the Iowa Department of Revenue, in comparison to privatized firms, refunds usually come far faster, and with no fee. Free File Alliance member companies have continually worked with the IRS to strengthen IRS Free File and ensure that it remains both accurate and secure.
Who is eligible?
This year, all taxpayers with a 2013 adjusted gross income of $58,000 or less may use IRS Free File to prepare, complete, and e-file their federal tax returns at no cost.
How do I use the Free File Program?
To begin, you must visit www.IRS.gov/freefile. Users will find a list of free file alliance member companies and may either choose the one that fits their needs or utilize the "help me find a company" tool. After selecting a company, taxpayers will be transferred to the company's website to prepare, complete and electronically file their federal income tax returns.
Are other free resources available?
The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free filing assistance for low-to-moderate income taxpayers age 50 and older. This service is available online at www.aarp.org/taxaide or by visiting one of the AARP Foundation assistance centers in Iowa. In addition, the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Programs offer free tax help for taxpayers who qualify. There are several IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers in Iowa, including in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines. Locations can be found at http://www.irs.gov/uac/
What about my Iowa income taxes?
There is a similar program for State of Iowa income taxes that can be found at http://www.iowa.gov/tax/.
For more information on filing your federal taxes, visit www.freefilealliance.org or http://www.aarp.org/money/. You can also visit Senator Harkin's website at http://harkin.senate.gov/, or follow him on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/ and Twitter https://twitter.com/.
A PDF version of this article is available here.
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