The IRS is urging taxpayers who have requested an extension to file their taxes to use IRS Free File and other resources on IRS.gov this summer rather than waiting for the October deadline. By doing so, taxpayers can avoid the rush and potential stress as the deadline approaches.
The IRS Free File service is available 24/7, allowing eligible taxpayers to prepare and e-file their tax returns for free. This service is open to people with an Adjusted Income of $79,000 or less. Eligible taxpayers can file with a trusted IRS Free File partner, making the process straightforward and cost-effective.
IRS.gov offers a variety of tools and services around the clock. These include the Interactive Tax Assistant for answers to tax law questions, an IRS Online account for viewing tax records and managing preferences, and electronic payment options. Taxpayers can also use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool for up-to-date information on their tax returns.
In disaster-affected areas, taxpayers may receive automatic extensions for filing and payments. The IRS has the authority to provide special tax relief in these areas, deferring various deadlines. Detailed information about tax relief for each disaster situation is available on the IRS disaster relief page.
For personal assistance, taxpayers can use the Taxpayer Assistance Center Locator Tool on IRS.gov to find the nearest IRS office, check available services, and schedule an appointment by calling 844-545-5640.
Free tax preparation services are available to those with disabilities, limited English speaking skills, or income of $64,000 or less per year. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and the Tax Counseling for Seniors (TCE) programs provide basic tax return preparation services. The locator tool on IRS.gov helps find local VITA and TCE sites.
Military members and other veterans can use MilTax for free tax preparation and e-filing, with no income limits. Soldiers serving overseas can postpone many tax deadlines and may qualify for automatic filing and payment extensions.
For taxpayers seeking professional help, it is important to choose qualified and ethical tax preparers. The IRS offers guidelines on how to choose a tax preparer and avoid fraudulent “ghost” preparers.
Taxpayers can stay informed on tax-related issues by signing up for IRS tax tips and receive articles on various tax topics directly by email. These tips include tax planning advice and information on taxpayer rights.
IRS.gov is committed to accessibility, providing forms and publications in a variety of formats for people with visual impairments. Taxpayers can fill out Form 9000 to select the format they prefer to receive IRS notices. Additionally, many pages on IRS.gov are available in multiple languages to accommodate taxpayers with limited English speaking skills.
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