Where Servicemembers, Veterans Can Get Free Tax Prep Help

Where Servicemembers, Veterans Can Get Free Tax Prep Help
Air Force photo

Seeking free tax help? You have options.

 

Servicemembers, veterans, and military family members may be eligible for a number of no-cost assistance programs, whether you’re looking to file online yourself (with a little extra guidance) or want an in-person assist.

 

Before you file, check out these options.

 

MilTax

What: Free tax filing software and one-on-one support through Military OneSource.

 

Where: Click here to access the materials.

 

When: The service goes live Jan. 18.

 

Who: Servicemembers, their spouses, and dependent children are eligible, as are retired and honorably discharged members within 365 days of separation. Some surviving spouses also qualify. Get full eligibility guidelines at the MilTax FAQ page.

 

VITA

What: The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides in-person support from IRS-certified volunteers for simple returns. Many VITA volunteers on or near military installations have specialized training in tax issues unique to servicemembers and veterans.

 

Where: Find a location at this link. No luck? Try the IRS VITA search tool.

 

When: Start dates and hours vary by location.

 

Who: Servicemembers and military retirees are eligible for VITA, according to Military OneSource, but check with your local tax office to see who is eligible at a specific location; some may be offering reduced services. Find out other VITA eligibility rules, including income requirements, at this link.

 

IRS Free File

What: Guided tax-prep software for online filing, as well as fillable tax forms. Some support for state filing is available.

 

Where: Access Free File at this link.

 

When: The program launched the week of Jan. 16. Fillable forms also are available.

 

Who: “Guided Tax Preparation” is available for those with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less. Other filers may still benefit from the fillable-form resources.

 

Find the latest financial news, including tax updates, at MOAA.org/Finance.

 

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About the Author

Kevin Lilley
Kevin Lilley

Lilley serves as MOAA's digital content manager. His duties include producing, editing, and managing content for a variety of platforms, with a concentration on The MOAA Newsletter and MOAA.org. Follow him on Twitter: @KRLilley