DC Earned Income Tax Credit
Learn About Tax Preparation Assistance
It’s that time of year again. Do you put off filing your income tax returns until the last minute? Are you confused by all the different forms you need to fill out? If so, you’re not alone. But did you know there’s plenty of help out there? And the best part is, much of it is FREE.
Here are 3 easy ways to file your federal and state income tax returns:
Option 1: Get Help at a Free Tax Preparation Site
Several Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites provide free services in DC. Most VITA sites can also electronically file (e-file) your tax return, so you’ll get your refund fast. To find out if you qualify for free tax preparation and locate a VITA site in your neighborhood, search a list of free tax preparation clinics or call Answers, Please! at (202) 463-6211.
Option 2: File Online for Free
If you prefer to file your taxes by yourself online, visit www.thebeehive.org. Find out if you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and see if you are eligible to file your tax returns for free using Complete Tax software.
If your income was less than $50,000 in 2005, you may also be able to file a free federal return online by visiting www.IRS.gov and linking to the Free File Alliance program. More than 5 million taxpayers took advantage of this free filing program in 2005.
The DC Office of Tax and Revenue will prepare, for free, District individual income tax returns for anyone requesting this service. First, individuals must have prepared their federal tax return before coming to the Customer Service Center. Taxpayers are also requested to have all supporting documentation with them, including a copy of their federal tax return, supporting W-2 forms, and any other information required.
Option 3: Choose a Paid Preparer
Taxes can be complicated. If you’re a business owner, rental property owner, or if you have taxable investment income or other complicated issues that affect your taxes, it may make sense to pay for professional assistance. You should expect to spend between $100 and $150 on average. But not all paid tax preparers are equal.
