Do you have unfiled tax returns?

For many taxpayers, tax problems start with unfiled tax returns.  Unfiled tax returns often lead to penalties, interest, and significant tax debts.  While the Tax Clinic does not prepare tax returns, the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is available to assist taxpayers to complete their tax returns.  The VITA program is a separately funded program that has services centers across the country.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who generally make $53,000 or less, persons with disabilities, the elderly and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals.

Resources from the IRS to Help Find a Tax Professional and Complete Your Own Returns

Tax professionals have varying levels of skills, education and expertise. And, not all tax professionals have the right to represent taxpayers before the IRS, such as during an audit. You should know the credentials, qualifications and extent of service each prospective professional provides before obtaining their service.  The following links are taken from the IRS Web site and will direct you to more information to complete your returns.

Free Resources

• Free Tax Return Preparation: Find out if you are eligible to get free help preparing your tax return from Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs listed here.

Paid Preparers and e-File Providers

• Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers: Find a paid tax return preparer based on location, credentials, and other select qualifications.
• Choosing a Paid Tax Professional: This page provides tips to help you choose a paid tax professional that’s right for you.
• Authorized e-File Providers: Find an Authorized e-File Provider near you who may be able to help you e-file, as well as prepare, your tax return.  

Prepare Your Own Return

Electronic filing is the easiest way to file a complete and accurate tax return. You can use Free File or commercial tax prep software and file your taxes electronically. You can pay electronically, too.  

Free Resources

• Free File: Find out if you are eligible for free file software or if you can file your return using free fillable forms.
• Pay Electronically:  Find options to pay your taxes electronically.

Commercial Software

• E-file Option: This page explains your options for electronic filing your tax return, including commercial software.

Prior Year Returns

Some electronic and free tax return services may only assist with the most recent tax year.  You can download blank past year tax returns from the IRS to complete manually.

Find a VITA or TCE Site

VITA and TCE sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls and other convenient locations across the country. To locate the nearest VITA or TCE site near you, use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887. See also:

• VITA sites serving Indian Country
• VITA sites offering Certified Acceptance Agents Services (for ITINs)

*Note: available services can vary at each site due to the availability of volunteers certified with the tax law expertise required for your return.

Are you missing important tax documents?

You can request missing income tax documents and records from the IRS, including:

• Tax Return Transcript
• Tax Account Transcript
• Record of Account Transcript
• Wage and Income Transcript
• Verification of Non-filing Letter

See the IRS Transcripts page for more information.