Free Tax Preparation: Who Qualifies and How to Get It

The cost of professional tax preparation can be a concern for many taxpayers, but there are several programs that offer free tax preparation near you if you meet certain income and eligibility requirements. At London’s Tax Services LLC, we believe everyone deserves accurate, expert tax help. Here’s a comprehensive overview of who qualifies for free tax preparation and how to access it.

IRS Free File Program

The IRS Free File program allows taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $79,000 or less to file their federal taxes for free using partnered software providers. If your income exceeds this limit, you can still use the IRS’s Free File Fillable Forms, which are electronic versions of paper forms with no income limit—but no guided assistance.

VITA: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax preparation by IRS-certified volunteers to taxpayers who generally earn $67,000 or less, people with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency. VITA sites are typically located in community centers, libraries, schools, and shopping malls.

TCE: Tax Counseling for the Elderly

The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program provides free tax help for taxpayers age 60 and older, specializing in retirement-related tax issues. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the largest TCE provider, with thousands of locations nationwide, including sites in the New York metro area.

NY State Free File

New York State also offers free e-filing options for residents. The NY Free File program allows qualifying taxpayers to file their state income taxes at no cost through the Tax Department’s website. Income limits and eligibility criteria apply.

When Free Tax Preparation May Not Be Enough

Free tax preparation programs are a great resource, but they work best for straightforward returns. If your situation involves any of the following, working with an experienced tax professional is strongly recommended:

• Self-employment or freelance income
• Rental property income or real estate transactions
• Multiple states of income
• Complex investment activity (capital gains, cryptocurrency, etc.)
• IRS correspondence or audit issues
• Business tax filing (LLC, S-Corp, Partnership)
• Tax planning or strategy for future years

Getting the Most Value from Tax Preparation

Whether you qualify for free filing or choose to invest in professional preparation, the goal is the same: pay only what you legally owe and keep more of your money. London’s Tax Services LLC offers competitive pricing and free consultations to help you determine the best path forward.

Ready to get started? Contact London’s Tax Services LLC at (646) 917-7714 or visit londonstaxservices.com to schedule your free consultation today. Serving Westchester, Rockland County, and the greater New York area.