Free Income Tax Preparation Assistance
Available
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[February 16, 2022]
Low-to-moderate income families and senior citizens needing assistance
filing their 2021 income taxes can receive free help through several
trusted programs across the State of Illinois. The Internal Revenue
Service (IRS), AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program, and Ladder Up Tax
Assistance Program are providing free basic income tax return
preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals in select
locations statewide.
"With the tax filing deadline date of April 18 just around the corner,
it is important for Illinois taxpayers to know that filing assistance is
available," said Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) Director David
Harris. "Volunteers at these locations are certified by the IRS and
ready to assist qualified individuals in filing their state and federal
tax returns accurately and on time."
How taxpayer assistance is provided and when services are available
varies by region, based upon several variables including COVID-19
conditions and volunteer capacity.
“Tax filing season can be stressful, but fortunately there are free
resources available to help older adults navigate the process, get their
full refunds, and protect their personal information,” said Paula Basta,
Director of the Illinois Department on Aging. “I encourage older
taxpayers to take advantage of these services as soon as possible and
encourage everyone to spread the word to aging loved ones who may prefer
some guidance when it comes to filing their taxes.”
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The
IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly
programs offer free tax help for individuals making $58,000 a year or less,
people 60 years of age or older, individuals with disabilities, and taxpayers
with limited English-speaking skills.
The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
Program provides free tax assistance, with a special focus on taxpayers over
the age of 50 or who have low-to-moderate income. Availability is determined at
the local or community level. AARP membership is not required to receive
assistance.
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In Chicagoland, the Ladder Up Tax Assistance Program (TAP) provides free basic
tax return preparation for families earning up to $58,000 and individuals
earning up to $32,000 per year.
Taxpayers can search for a free tax assistance provider closest to them by
visiting IDOR’s website
tax.illinois.gov.
Individuals with questions should contact IDOR’s Taxpayer Assistance Division at
800-732-8866.
Taxpayers may also visit any of IDOR’s offices located in Chicago, Des Plaines,
Fairview Heights, Marion, Rockford, and Springfield to receive assistance. Staff
at these locations can help with any Illinois state income tax filing inquiries
and are available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
[Illinois Office of Communication and
Information] |