Where to Get Inexpensive Tax Help
If you find that filing your taxes or handling an IRS issue is beyond that of which you are capable but you don’t have hundreds of dollars to pay a professional either, you may be interested to learn more about where you can get some inexpensive, and possibly even free, tax help. The more you earn and the more you own, the more complicated filing your taxes can become, and at some point you may find that filling out the 1040EZ form just doesn’t cut it. If you find yourself involved in a dispute with the IRS, handling it can quickly become an expensive proposition, both in time and money. There are places where you can find tax assistance, however, that won’t put you even further in the financial hole. Check out some of these great sources for tax help before turning to an expensive accountant or attorney for assistance.
Software
One of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to get help with filing your taxes can be found just a few mouse-clicks away. Many companies, such as H&R Block or TurboTax, offer free federal tax filing software on the internet to make filling out your 1040 considerably easier. Simply visit the site, register, and answer a series of questions, all the while having access to helpful hints and tips that ensure you’ll get the biggest return possible. While more complicated tax returns may require a fee in order to access them, the cost is still nominal compared to meeting face to face with an accountant. Filing most state returns also require that you pay a fee, but again, it’s fairly small. You can also purchase tax preparation software for around $50.00 to $100.00 that you can use year after year and that can handle more complicated returns.
Legal Clinics
If you require help that extends beyond basic assistance with filing your taxes, such as disputing or settling a tax bill, you don’t have to rush out and employ an expensive attorney or accountant to get some much-needed guidance. Local universities that have law programs often offer free or reasonably priced tax clinics wherein students, under the advisement of licensed attorneys, offer assistance for more complicated tax issues. There may be a wait to get an appointment and you may have to earn less than a certain amount in order to qualify. Contact your local law school for more information, or visit the IRS website for information on a tax clinic near you.
Community
There may be volunteers or other free services to the elderly, to veterans, or to low-income folks who need assistance with filing taxes in your community. Call the IRS help line at 800-829-1040 and ask about services available near you or contact your local government office. Organizations like AARP also offer free tax advice either on their website, AARP.org, or you can call their hotline at 888-227-7669.
The IRS
One of the most obvious places to look at when you need free or inexpensive but accurate tax help is the IRS itself. Visit their website, IRS.gov, or call their helpline at 800-829-1040 for both answers to questions and guidance on where you can find additional resources. The Taxpayer Advocate Service, an independent office within the IRS, helps individuals and business that are having long-term tax problems without any limitations on income level.
