March 28, 2006 > Free Tax Help

by Shalini Mongia

Did you earn $38,000 or less in 2005? Free help with income tax returns is available from VITA, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program sponsored by the IRS. VITA volunteers will help with basic tax returns, including non-English speaking taxpayers if you are a US citizens or permanent resident. You may be eligible for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and/or other credits that you did not know about, even if you owe very little in taxes. Information about financial services will also be available. Childcare will be provided at no cost.

• Picture ID
  
• Social Security Cards for all family members
  
• All forms, W
• 2 AND 1099'S
  
• Information for other income
  
• Information for all deductions and credits
  
• A copy of last year's tax return
  
• Married couples filing jointly must come together
  
• A voided check, if you prefer a direct deposit refund within 7 to 10 days