Where Can Veterans Get Their Taxes Done for Free?

Many veterans can access free tax preparation services through programs designed to ease the burden of tax filing and ensure they receive all entitled credits and deductions. This guide provides information on where to find these resources and how to prepare for a visit.

IRS-Sponsored Volunteer Programs

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) supports community-based programs that offer no-cost tax help to qualified individuals, including veterans. The two primary initiatives are the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. Both are staffed by IRS-certified volunteers trained to prepare basic tax returns.

VITA sites are available to persons with disabilities, limited English-speaking taxpayers, and those who generally make $67,000 or less. Veterans whose income falls within this threshold can use VITA services. The volunteers are trained to handle a variety of tax situations to ensure filers claim the correct credits.

The TCE program provides free tax help, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues. While the program is open to all taxpayers, it gives special attention to those who are 60 years of age and older. This makes it a useful resource for older veterans.

Military-Specific Tax Assistance Programs

Beyond the general IRS-sponsored programs, there are tax assistance resources for the military community. The Department of Defense provides a program called MilTax through Military OneSource, which offers free tax preparation software and personalized support from tax consultants. These services address the unique financial circumstances that can arise from military service.

Eligibility for MilTax extends to active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve members, as well as their families and survivors. This benefit also covers recently separated veterans for up to 365 days after their separation or retirement date. This transition period allows new veterans to get specialized help as they navigate changes in their income.

The MilTax software is designed to handle military-specific tax situations, such as combat pay and multiple state filings due to relocations. Consultants are available by phone or live chat, and the service includes preparation of a federal return and up to three state returns at no cost.

Information and Documents to Bring

To ensure a smooth tax filing process, you must gather all necessary documents beforehand. Proper documentation is required for both in-person sites and online services. You will need to bring:

• Valid photo identification for yourself and your spouse, if filing jointly
• Social Security cards and birth dates for everyone on the tax return, including dependents
• All income-reporting documents, such as Form W-2, Form 1099-MISC, and other 1099s for interest, dividends, or retirement distributions
• Your SSA-1099 statement if you receive Social Security
• Records for potential deductions or credits, like Form 1098-T for tuition, student loan interest statements, and childcare expense information
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of a refund
• A copy of your previous year’s federal and state tax returns

How to Find a Free Tax Preparation Site

For veterans who qualify for VITA or TCE services, the IRS offers an online locator tool. By entering your zip code, you can find a list of nearby sites, their hours of operation, and whether an appointment is necessary. Assistance is also available by calling the IRS toll-free number.

To access the MilTax program, visit the Military OneSource website. The site provides access to the free tax filing software and connects you with tax consultants.

Local veterans’ organizations, such as posts of the Veterans of Foreign Wars or The American Legion, sometimes host VITA sites or can direct you to resources in your community. Checking with these groups can be another way to find local tax assistance.