Tax Tip 2019-38: Here’s how taxpayers can prepare for an appointment at a volunteer tax prep site

Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sent this bulletin at 04/09/2019 11:54 AM EDT

IRS Tax Tips

April 9, 2019

Issue Number: Tax Tip 2019-38

Here’s how taxpayers can prepare for an appointment at a volunteer tax prep site

Volunteers across the country file federal taxes at no charge for qualified individuals and families. With the filing deadline only a few days away, many people will be visiting a volunteer site over the next week and the IRS wants the experience to go as smoothly as possible.

The IRS sponsors two programs that are available to people with low-to-moderate incomes:

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance: The VITA program offers free tax return preparation for eligible taxpayers who generally earn $55,000 or less.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly: TCE is mainly for people age 60 or older, but offers service to all taxpayers. The program focuses on tax issues unique to seniors. AARP participates in this program through AARP Tax-Aide.

To find the nearest VITA or TCE site, use the locator tool available on IRS.gov, download the app IRS2GO app or call 800-906-9887.

Taxpayers should have all required documents and information with them when they visit. Doing so will make sure their VITA or TCE visit is a success.

Taxpayers should bring:

Social Security cards for the taxpayer, spouse and dependents
Photo ID for taxpayer and spouse, if filing a joint tax return
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number assignment letter may be substituted for those who do not have a Social Security number
Proof of foreign status, if applying for an ITIN
Birth dates for the taxpayer, spouse and dependents
Wage and earning statements, Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-Misc, from all employers and other payers
Interest and dividend statements from banks
Health Insurance Exemption Certificate, if received
A copy of last year’s federal and state tax returns, if available
Proof of bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit of tax refund, such as a blank check
Total amount paid for daycare services and the daycare provider's tax identification number, such as their SSN or business Employer Identification Number
Forms 1095-A, B and C, Health Coverage statements
Copies of income transcripts from IRS and state, if applicable

Also, Taxpayers should remember that in order to file taxes electronically on a married-filing-joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms. Special rules apply for some military families.

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Tax Tip 2019-38: Here’s how taxpayers can prepare for an appointment at a volunteer tax prep site

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Issue Number: Tax Tip 2019-38