How to File Your 2024 Tax Return for Free

Danielle Del Plato Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Tired of paying a fee to file your taxes? Cheer up, because there are plenty of ways to get your taxes done for free. Take a closer look at the options available to qualifying taxpayers at

no charge.

Let’s start with AARP Foundation Tax-Aide. Since 1968, Tax-Aide has helped more than 80 million taxpayers fill out their returns. All Tax-Aide volunteers are certified by the Internal

Revenue Service (IRS) every year to make sure they understand all facets of the tax code.

Tax-Aide offers several ways to get your taxes done for free. 

arrive at the Tax-Aide location and drop off your documents, which are scanned and stored on a secured portal provided by the IRS. Tax-Aide volunteers fill out your forms. When you come

back, you finalize your return and get a paper printout. Alternatively, returns can be finalized online as long as you have internet service.Drop-off service. Just drop off your tax

documents with a Tax-Aide volunteer. Other volunteers will fill out your return and e-file it. You’ll get a printed copy of your tax return when you come back, as well as all your

documents.Virtual visit. Scan your documents and upload them to IRS software. Tax-Aide volunteers will prepare your return and send it to the IRS electronically. You’ll get your documents

and your return electronically as well.Self-assistance. Just need someone to look over as you complete your own tax return? Tax-Aide will do that, too, whether in-person or remotely.Do it

yourself. Use software provided through the Tax-Aide website without an in-person or remote coach. Video: Understanding Your 2024 Income Tax

Naturally, there are some caveats. Tax-Aide service begins in early February. You can find the Tax-Aide location nearest to you with AARP’s handy Tax-Aide Locator tool (up and running around

mid-January). The service is available by appointment in most locations, but some have walk-in service, too.

Tax-Aide can prepare most returns, but not all of them. If you have a small business or must pay the Alternative Minimum Tax, you might be better served elsewhere. Although the program is

aimed toward older adults with low to moderate income, anyone can use Tax-Aide regardless of age, and you don’t have to be an AARP member. Did we mention that it’s free?