Tax Preparation

People who are ready to file can begin filing their tax returns with tax prep software, including IRS Free File. The quickest way for taxpayers to get a tax refund is by filing electronically and choosing direct deposit for their refund.

Help Filing Taxes

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Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)

A federal grant program provides tax preparation assistance, particularly to those 60 and older from IRS-certified volunteers. (Most TCE sites are operated by AARP Foundation Tax-Aide.) For more information, call (888) 227-7669 toll-free or check online.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

Under another federal grant program, IRS-certified VITA volunteers provide tax-preparation services to people who generally have income of $57,000 or less, as well as those with disabilities or limited English language skills. Call (800) 906-9887 to find a nearby VITA site. Online assistance is also available.

If seeking help in-person, please bring: all W-2s and 1099s (if any); Social Security Cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for all family members; valid photo ID; copy of last year's tax return, if available; checking and savings account and routing numbers to direct deposit your refund; property tax bill; amount spent on college expenses.

VITA/TCE Site Locator:Click Here or call 800-906-9887.

Income $72,000 and below file your taxes with free, easy to use software. Free state return options are available. CLICK HERE

Below are sites in the area that are offering tax assistance. There are also sites available in Chicago that you can find by using the search tools above.