The deadline for reporting 2013 income taxes is closing in.
For qualifying individuals needing help with tax preparation, the IRS offers two programs: the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE).
IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
The VITA program is for people who make less than or equal to $52,000 a year.
This program also assists people with disabilities and tax payers with limited English language skills, along with the elderly.
Under this program, you can get the assistance of IRS certified volunteers to help you in preparing your basic tax returns with electronic filing. These volunteers can also provide important information like whether you qualify for any tax credits.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
The TCE program, as the name suggests, is for people who are 60 years of age or older.
This program has IRS certified volunteers who specialize in specific seniors-related issues, such as those related to pensions and retirement incomes.
The volunteers associated with this program receive grants from the IRS and are usually retired individuals who are associated with nonprofit organizations.
Where Can You Get Such Help?
Tax filing assistance under the VITA or TCE programs is available at thousands of locations across the United States. Sites are generally located at convenient locations such as neighborhood and community centers, schools, libraries and shopping malls.
To locate a center near you, you can use the locator tool found on the IRS’ official site or call on 800-906-9887.