Free tax return preparation
In addition to providing federal tax return preparation, VITA, TCE, and AARP Tax-Aide sites can also provide WFTC application assistance.
IRS assistance
The IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax preparation to people who need assistance in preparing their tax returns, including:
- People who generally make $64,000 or less.
- Persons with disabilities.
- Limited English-speaking people.
The TCE program offers free tax help, particularly for those who are 60 years of age and older.
Find a VITA or TCE site near you: use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887.
AARP Tax-Aide
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Foundation Tax-Aide program provides in-person and virtual tax assistance free of charge with a special focus on people who have low-to-moderate income.
Find an AARP Tax-Aide site near you: use the AARP Site Locator Tool or call 888-227-7669.
Free income tax filing with IRS Direct File
The IRS Direct File pilot is a new, free tax tool to file your federal taxes directly with the IRS. Any Washington taxpayer who meets the Direct File eligibility requirements can use Direct File starting March 12th. At the end of the Direct File experience, you will be redirected to the WFTC website where you can check if you are eligible for WFTC and apply separately.
Visit Direct File to see if you are eligible to use this new filing tool.
Financial resources
2-1-1 Washington
2-1-1 is a free confidential community service and your one-stop connection to the local services you need, from utility assistance, food, housing, health, child care, after school programs, elder care, crisis intervention and much more. 2-1-1 is always ready to assist you in finding the help you need. Dial the three digit number 2-1-1 on your phone or visit WA211.org. If you are outside of Washington or have a problem dialing the number 2-1-1, please dial 877-211-9274.