3 Ways to Save $300+ During Tax Season
- If you prefer to file your taxes, the IRS allows you to choose from 12 free tax filing programs.
- It's important to avoid scammers during tax season.
- Dishonest practitioners can add false information to give you a bigger refund that you do not qualify to receive.
File Your Taxes for Free
If your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is $66,000 or less, you may qualify for two IRS options to file your taxes for free.
Option 1: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Centers
VITA sites are located in communities across the country. You can schedule an appointment to file your taxes with a trained tax preparer at a VITA site. Appointments are available from February through April, with some locations offering tax help through October.
Click here to find a site.
Option 2: Free Self-Filing
If you like to file yourself, the IRS allows you to choose from 12 free tax filing programs, including H&R Block and TurboTax.
Learn more about free tax filing software partnerships from the IRS.
Avoid Refund Anticipation Loans
Offers for “Instant Refunds” or “Quick Cash” cost you more in the long run. For example, many tax-preparing companies claim that their loans are 0% interest. But, in reality, the company is tacking on fees to make the money they would have made if they charged interest.
Avoid the Scammers
Just because a tax preparer promises you a bigger refund does not mean that it will be done in good practice. Dishonest practitioners can add false information to give you a bigger refund that you do not qualify to receive. As a result, you could be audited and end up with an enormous tax bill, fines from the federal government, and added stress.