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***View the English version: What to Bring to a Tax Appointment (Tax Checklist).***

Aquí hay una lista de documentos que necesita para asegurarse de presentar sus declaración de impuestos con precisión. Puede presentar su declaración de manera gratuita en un sitio VITA o en línea en GetYourRefund, o MyFreeTaxes. También puede presentar su declaración de impuestos con un preparador de impuestos pagado. Si presenta su declaración en un sitio VITA o con un preparador pagado, revise antes de hacer una cita si tiene que llevar algún otro documento.

Documentos Personales

Traiga todos los documentos que se encuentran a continuación.

• Identificación con foto
• Tarjetas de Seguro Social, cartas de verificación del Número de Seguro Social o cartas de asignación del Número de Identificación Personal del Contribuyente de usted, su cónyuge y cualquier dependiente
• Fechas de nacimiento para usted, su esposo/a y dependientes en la declaración de impuestos
• Cuenta bancaria y número de ruta para uno de los siguientes:
  • Cuenta de cheques o de, ahorros en un banco o cooperativa de crédito.
  • Tarjeta prepagada (consulte el sitio web que aparece en su tarjeta para obtener instrucciones sobre cómo realizar depósitos).
  • Applicaciones móviles utilizadas para enviar y recibir dinero
• Declaraciones de impuestos de 2023 y 2024, si las tiene
• PIN de Protección de Identidad (IP PIN), si lo tiene

Ingreso

Traiga todos los documentos que correspondan.

Ingresos Laborales

• Formulario(s) W-2 para todos los empleos del año pasado (su(s) empleador(es) los habrá(n) enviado esto antes del 31 de enero por correo postal y/o correo electrónico).
• Registros de pago de horas extras (ultimo recibo de pago del año).

Ingresos de Trabajo por Cuenta Propia, contrato, o esporádicos

• 1099-NEC y/o 1099-K
• Registros de ingresos recibidos y no declarados en los formularios 1099, que incluyen quién le pagó y los montes.
• Registros de gastos, incluidos recibos, estados de cuenta de tarjetas de crédito, etc.
• Registro de pagos de impuestos estimados

Beneficios de Jubilación o Discapacidad

• Formulario SSA-1099 para beneficios del Seguro Social
• 1099-R para ingreso de pensión/IRA/anualidad

Ingresos por Desempleo

• 1099-G para beneficios por desempleo

Otras Fuentes de Ingresos

• 1099-G para el reembolso de impuestos sobre la renta estatales/locales
• 1098-T para becas/becas de investigación
• Ingresos o pérdidas por la venta de acciones, bonos o bienes inmuebles
• Ingresos o pérdidas propiedad en alquiler
• Pensión alimenticia recibida
• Estados de cuenta de premios o ganancias de lotería/apuestas
• 1099-INT/1099-DIV por estados de interés y dividendos de los bancos
• Registros de ingresos por propinas (tanto para trabajadores autónomos como con formulario W-2): los documentos pueden incluir el Formulario 1099-NEC, el Formulario 1099-MISC, el Formulario 1099-K y/o un registro personal de ingresos por propinas
• Registros de cualquier otro ingreso

Gastos

Es posible que pueda reclamar deducciones de impuestos para algunos de los gastos que tenga. Estas deducciones reducen los ingresos sobre los que paga impuestos. Traiga la documentación de todos los siguientes gastos que tenga:

• Contribuciones de jubilación, incluido 401 (k) o IRA
• Impuestos estatales y locales que ha pagado
• Pagos de hipoteca y facturas de impuestos sobre la propiedad si es propietario de una vivienda
• Colegiatura universitaria (1098-T), recibos de útiles escolares o libros, y estados de cuenta de préstamos estudiantiles (Formulario 1098-E)
• Gastos de cuidado de niños, en 2025, incluidos los registros de pago o recibos y el nombre, la dirección y el número de identificación fiscal federal del proveedor (ya sea su Número de Seguro Social o Número de Identificación de Empleo)
• Recibos de donaciones benéficas
• Facturas médicas y dentales
• Registros de suministros utilizados como educador
• Intereses de préstamos para autos nuevos: Número de identificación del vehículo (VIN) y estado de cuenta de intereses del prestamista para autos comprados en 2025

Otros Documentos o Notificaciones Fiscales

• Formulario 1095-A si ha tenido cobertura mediante el Mercado de Seguros de Salud
• Cartas o documentos del IRS, agencias de impuestos locales o estatales, o del Mercado de Seguros de Salud

Here is a customizable and printable version of the Tax Appointment Checklist.

***Leer en español: Qué documentos llevar a una cita para realizar sus impuestos (lista de verificación para impuestos).***

Here’s a list of documents you need to help ensure you file taxes accurately. You can file for free at a VITA site or online at GetYourRefund, or MyFreeTaxes. You can also file your taxes with a paid preparer. If filing at a VITA site or paid preparer, check before your appointment if there are other documents you need to bring.

Personal documents

Bring all documents below.

• Photo ID
• Social Security Cards, Social Security Number verification letters, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number assignment letters for you, your spouse, and any dependents
• Birth dates for you, your spouse, and dependents on the tax return
• Bank account and routing number for at least one of the following:
  • Checking or savings account at a bank or credit union
  • Prepaid card (check the website listed on your card for deposit instructions)
  • Mobile apps used for sending and receiving money
• 2023 and 2024 tax return, if you have them
• Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), if you have one

Income

Bring all documents that apply.

Employment Income

• W-2 form(s) for all jobs last year (your employer(s) will have sent you this by January 31st by mail and/or by email).
• Overtime pay records (last pay stub of the year)

Gig, Contract, or Self-Employment Income

• 1099-NEC and/or 1099-K
• Records of income received and not reported on 1099 forms that include who paid you and the amounts
• Records of expenses including receipts, credit statements, etc.
• Record of estimated tax payments

Retirement or Disability Benefits

• SSA-1099 form for Social Security benefits
• 1099-R for pension/IRA/annuity income

Unemployment Income

• 1099-G for unemployment benefits

Other sources of income

• 1099-G for refund of state/local income taxes
• 1098-T for scholarships/fellowships
• Income or loss from the sale of stocks, bonds, or real estate
• Income or loss from rental property
• Alimony received
• Statements for prizes or lottery/gambling winnings
• 1099-INT/1099-DIV for Interest and dividend statements from banks
• Tip income records (for both W-2 and self-employed workers): documents may include Form 1099-NEC, Form 1099-MISC, Form 1099-K, and/or a personal log of tip income
• Records for any other income

Expenses

You may be able to claim tax deductions for some of the expenses you have. These deductions reduce the income you are taxed on. Bring documentation for all the following expenses you have.

• Retirement contributions, including a 401(k) or IRA
• State and local taxes you’ve paid
• Mortgage statements and property tax bills if you are a homeowner
• College tuition (Form 1098-T), receipts for school books and supplies, and student loan statements (Form 1098-E)
• Childcare expenses in 2025, including payment records or receipts and provider’s name, address, and federal tax ID number (either their Social Security Number or Employment Identification Number)
• Receipts for charitable donations
• Medical and dental bills
• Records for supplies used as an educator
• New car loan interest: Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and lender interest statement for cars purchased in 2025

 Other Tax Documents or Notices

• Form 1095-A if you had coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace
• Letters or documents from the IRS, state or local tax agencies, or the Health Insurance Marketplace

By Raquel Ordaz, 2025-2026 Get it Back Campaign

The tax filing deadline is Wednesday, April 15, 2026! This year there are several tax filing changes to be aware of before you file your return. This guide highlights what you need to know to get the most out of the tax season this year.

Click on any of the following links to jump to a section:

• What new tax deductions are available?
• Overtime pay deduction
• Tip income deduction
• Car loan interest deduction
• Senior bonus deduction
• Direct deposit for tax refunds
• 530A accounts (Trump Accounts)
• Child Tax Credit (CTC)
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
• Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)
• Adoption Tax Credit
• Avoiding scams and identity theft
• Claiming missed tax credits from previous years
• Filing your taxes for free

What new tax deductions are available?

Deductions help reduce the amount of tax you owe. New deductions for tax years 2025-2028 may benefit some workers with overtime pay or tip income, seniors, and individuals with new car loans. These deductions are available whether you itemize deductions or take the standard deduction and you can claim them alongside valuable tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC).

While the tax deductions phase out for higher-income filers, many households with low and moderate incomes may qualify. To take these deductions you will file Schedule 1-A, Additional Deductions with your 2025 tax return.

Below is an overview of the new deductions and how they work.

Overtime pay deduction

If you earn overtime pay, you may be able to deduct a portion of that income from your taxable earnings. This deduction is designed to provide tax relief to workers who put in long hours and rely on overtime income to make ends meet.

For the 2025 tax year, individuals with a valid Social Security number can deduct up to $12,500 in qualified overtime compensation while married couples filing jointly can deduct up to $25,000. This deduction is for federally mandated overtime and only applies to the extra half-time portion of overtime wages, not the regular hourly pay.

For example, Lisa’s final 2025 paystub shows that she earned a total of $6,000 in overtime pay for the year. This amount includes her regular wages plus the additional half-time overtime pay. To determine the amount eligible for the deduction she divides the total by 3: $6,000 ÷ 3 = $2,000 qualified overtime pay.

Employers are expected to calculate the qualified overtime amount for you. However, during this transitional year, some employers may not. If you need to determine the amount yourself, the IRS provides examples of how to calculate eligible overtime pay for this deduction if you are paid another rate for overtime.

Tip income deduction

You may qualify to for the tax deduction for tip income if you work in a recognized industry that earns tips. Like the overtime deduction, this provision helps reduce the tax burden on workers whose income can vary widely from week to week.

Single filers with a valid Social Security number can deduct up to $25,000 in tip income when filing their 2025 tax return, while those who are married filing jointly can deduct up to $50,000.

To claim the tip income deduction, you will need records of your tip income. This may include Form 1099-NEC, Form 1099-MISC, Form 1099-K and/or a personal log of tip income.

Car loan interest deduction

People who purchase a new vehicle may be eligible for a deduction for car loan interest. This deduction is intended to help offset the rising cost of vehicle ownership while encouraging the purchase of vehicles assembled in the U.S.

Individuals who took out a loan after December 31, 2024, to purchase a new car assembled in the United States can deduct up to $10,000 in interest paid on that loan. The car must be a personal vehicle, not for business or commercial use.

When you file your taxes, you will need your car loan lender interest statement and your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to take this deduction.

Senior bonus deduction

Some older adults may benefit from a new senior bonus deduction. Tax fliers who are 65 or older on December 31, 2025, and who have a valid Social Security number, can deduct up to $6,000 from their taxable income. Married couples filing jointly may deduct up to $12,000 if both spouses qualify.

This bonus deduction is in addition to the extra standard deduction already available to seniors. Currently, seniors can take an additional $2,000 deduction if filing individually or $3,200 if filing jointly. When combined, the additional standard deduction and the new bonus deduction can significantly lower taxable income for older adults, particularly those living on fixed incomes.

Direct deposit for tax refunds

The IRS now requires most people to receive tax refunds through direct deposit to reduce theft. If you do not include account details on your tax return, the IRS will send a letter requesting this information. Your refund may be delayed for up to 6 weeks.

The IRS plans to issue guidance explaining who might qualify to continue receiving paper checks and what options are available for people who can’t receive direct deposit.

Resources are available to open a bank account to receive direct deposit:

• BankOn partners with financial institutions in every state to connect people to safe, affordable bank accounts.
• The National Credit Union Administration has a credit union locator tool.
• The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has resources to help people find a bank to open an account in person or online. Also, this checklist can help people select the right account for their needs.
• Some prepaid debit cards, digital wallets, or mobile apps that have routing and account numbers associated with personal accounts may also be able to receive direct deposit. Check with the company to confirm which numbers to use.

530A accounts (Trump Accounts)

Another new opportunity this tax season is the option to open a special savings account for a child. If you are the parents or legal guardians of a child with a valid Social Security number, you can set up an investment savings account for your child when you file your 2025 tax return, or at any point before the calendar year in which the child turns 18.

Children born in the U.S. in 2025-2028 can receive an initial deposit of $1,000 from the federal government after July 4, 2026. You must elect to receive this contribution when you file a tax return or sign up at trumpaccounts.gov. (Children born before 2025 who are under 18 are eligible for an account but not for the $1,000 government deposit.)

Families can contribute up to $5,000 per year to a child’s account starting in mid-2026. Generally, money cannot be withdrawn until the child turns 18. Earnings in the accounts will be taxed when the money is withdrawn.

Child Tax Credit (CTC)

The Child Tax Credit helps families cover the costs of raising children and is worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child. If you don’t owe federal income taxes or if the credit is more than the taxes you owe, you can get up to $1,700 back as a refund through the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). To qualify for the ACTC you must earn at least 2,500 of earned income in 2025.

As in previous years, a child must have a Social Security number (SSN) to be claimed for the credit. A new change this year is that at least one parent must also have an SSN to claim the credit. (Previously, parents could have either an SSN or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to claim the credit.)

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The Earned Income Tax Credit is available for workers with low to moderate incomes. As a refundable tax credit, the EITC may provide you money back as a refund or lower the federal taxes that you owe. To qualify for this credit, you must earn money from a job.

When you file your taxes in 2026, the EITC is based on the earned income you made in 2025. Eligible families can claim a credit worth up to $8,046. Adults who aren’t raising kids at home are eligible for an EITC worth up to $649. Keep in mind that if you don’t have a qualifying child, you must be between 25-64 years old to be eligible for the credit. (There is not an age requirement for workers claiming children.)

Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)

The Child and Dependent Care Credit helps families pay for child or dependent care expenses so they can work or look for work. This includes care for an incapacitated spouse who is unable to care for themselves or an adult dependent. As a non-refundable tax credit, the CDCTC helps reduce the amount of federal taxes you may owe.

The credit is worth a maximum of $1,050 for one qualifying person and $2,100 for two or more qualifying persons. You can claim eligible expenses up to $3,000 for one qualifying person or up to $6,000 for two or more qualifying persons. To determine your total 2025 care expenses, you can review documentation such as receipts, bank account statements, or provider statements that show how much you paid for care.

Adoption Tax Credit

The Adoption Tax Credit helps offset certain expenses for the adoption of a child. The credit is non-refundable, however starting tax year 2025 (which you file in 2026), part of the tax credit is refundable.

Families who qualify for the Adoption Credit and owe less in federal income taxes than the credit’s full value of $17,280 can now receive up to $5,000 as a refund. Eligible families must have qualified adoption-related expenses such as fees paid to an adoption agency.

Avoiding scams & identity theft

Tax-related scams and identity theft are common during the filing season, especially with new tax benefits available. One way to protect yourself is to sign up for an IRS Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN)). An IP PIN is a six-digit number that is known only to you and the IRS. It is used to help prevent someone else from filing a tax return with your information.

Scammers may also pretend to be the IRS and contact you through phone calls, emails, text messages, or social media. It’s important to remember:

• The IRS will not contact you for the first time by email, text message, or social media.
• The IRS will generally contact you first by regular mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.

If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from the IRS, you can report it to phishing@irs.gov. You can also review The IRS’ tips to identify and report tax fraud.

Claiming missed tax credits from previous years

If you didn’t claim tax credits you were eligible for in past years, you may still have time. In most cases, you can file a prior-year tax return up to three previous years to claim missed credits. This year you are filing taxes for 2025. This means you can file or correct a federal tax return to claim missed tax credits for 2022, 2023, and 2024.

If you are filing a 2022 tax return, you must file by April 15, 2026. Since this is the last year to file a 2022 tax return, you must mail it to the IRS and cannot file it electronically.

If you weren’t required to file before, there is usually no penalty for filing late if you are due a refund and don’t owe taxes. If you were required to file taxes, and you missed the deadline, filing late (and claiming credits you are eligible for) could decrease any penalty you may owe.

Filing your taxes for free

There are free and trusted tax filing options available:

• Get Your Refund: File your own taxes online or get virtual help from IRS-certified volunteers.
• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and AARP Foundation’s Tax Aide: Get free, in-person help from trained volunteers.

These programs are designed to help you file an accurate return and claim the credits you are eligible for.

Last updated January 22, 2026

Not everyone is required to file their taxes. Whether you need to file your taxes depends on four factors: your income, filing status, age, and whether you fall under a special circumstance.

Even if you aren’t required to file taxes, you may want to file for tax credits and other benefits.

Income

The IRS sets new tax filing thresholds each year. If your 2025 gross income was greater than the amounts listed below, then you are required to file taxes.

Gross income is any income you pay taxes on. Your age is determined by how old you were on December 31, 2025.

If you can be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return, your tax filing requirements are different. If that is the case, read up on 2025 filing requirements for dependents.

Other circumstances that require you to file

If you are self-employed, you are required to file taxes if you earn more than $400 in self-employment income.

If you pay special taxes, then you must file even if you don’t meet the filing threshold. Special taxes include additional taxes on qualified retirement plans or when you must pay taxes on tips you did not report to your employer.

In addition, you must file taxes if you or anyone in your household enrolled in health coverage through the Healthcare.gov Marketplace and you received premium tax credits in 2025.

If you have special tax considerations, you may want to use the IRS’ interactive tool to determine whether you need to file.

You may want to file even if you’re not required to

If you’ll receive a tax refund, you should file a tax return even if you’re not required to.

If you’re not required to file taxes but you withheld taxes throughout the year, you can get that money back when you file your tax return.

You may also be eligible for refundable tax credits that may give you a tax refund even if you don’t owe taxes. These credits include the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, and the American Opportunity Tax Credit.

If you’re not sure if you withheld taxes or qualify for tax credits, you may want to file a tax return anyway to avoid missing out. You have up to three years to file previous years’ taxes and/or claim past tax credits.

By Reagan Van Coutren, 2022 Get It Back Campaign Intern

You can file your federal taxes from a previous year for up to three years after the original due date (usually around April 15). States may have different time frames for their acceptance of late tax returns. Check with your state’s Department of Revenue if you intend to file a state tax return for a previous year.

Click on any of the following links to jump to a section:

• Why would I want to file a late return?
• What happens if I file taxes late?
• How do I file a late return?
• How long does it take to get my refund after filing taxes for a previous year?
• Where can I get tax help?
• Resources

Why would I want to file a late tax return?

You may want to file a prior year tax return to claim tax credits that you may have missed out on like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit (CTC), or stimulus checks. You also may need to file back taxes if you had too much money withheld from your paycheck.

Filing taxes for previous years can help reduce any penalties or interest you may owe if you were required to file taxes in previous years but did not. If you are eligible for tax credits in the future and don’t owe taxes, you may be able to get more money back.

Filing a past due tax return can also help you avoid tax liens, making it easier to protect your credit. Having prior year tax returns can also help with applications for loans and financial aid. When you apply for a loan, financial institutions typically need copies of filed tax returns.

If you do gig work or work for yourself, claiming self-employment income on a federal tax return also helps you build your Social Security benefits. When you work for someone else, your employer reports your earnings to the Social Security Administration. If you are self-employed, your income will not be reported if you don’t file a federal tax return. This means that you could miss out on Social Security or disability benefits in the future.

What happens if I file taxes late?

There is no penalty for filing taxes after the deadline if you are due a refund and don’t owe taxes. When you file your tax return, be sure to include any schedules or other forms required for different tax credits.

The IRS may charge fees for late filing and late payment if you owe taxes and file late. This means that if you are eligible for a tax credit, the amount of the credit may be reduced. The IRS offers payment plans to help you stay compliant. Learn more about the different fees the IRS charges and options for paying them.

How do I file a late return?

Your tax fling process will depend on whether you are filing a tax return for the first time, or you are amending a return. Either way, first gather documents about income you’ve received for the tax year you are filing for. Also, if you received any notices from the IRS, have those ready.

If you did not file taxes for a prior year, you will need to file all tax forms (including any schedules) for that year. You will file these forms in the same way as a regular, on-time return. Learn more about filing prior-year taxes.

If you filed taxes during a prior year but did not claim a tax credit, you will need to file what is called an amended return by filling out Form 1040X, “Amended US Individual Income Tax Return” for each year. If you are claiming an eligible child for tax credits, you will also need to include the Schedule EIC (for the EITC) or Schedule 8812 (for the CTC) when you file each amended return. You should not amend a return until after the IRS has processed your original tax return.

When you file a return three years after the original due date, you must mail your tax return to the IRS. If you file a tax return one or two years after the original due date, you can file it electronically (suggested) or mail it.

How long does it take to get my refund after filing taxes for a previous year?

It can take up to 21 days to receive your refund when you file a previous year tax return for the first time electronically. Amended returns, generally take 8-12 weeks, but could take up to 16 weeks. This applies whether you file your return by mail or electronically.  Timeframes may change depending on what time of year you file. You can check the status of your return using the IRS’ Where’s My Refund? tool.

Where can I get tax help?

There are resources available to help you file a prior year tax return. Some Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites have the ability, outside of the busy tax season, to help with past returns. Contact your local VITA sites to see if they can help. In addition, tax preparers at GetYourRefund.org can help file past returns.

Resources

• How to Claim the EITC – IRS
• Do I Need to File a Tax Return? Interactive Tool – IRS

Last updated February 13, 2026

Filing taxes can be difficult, especially if you are experiencing housing instability or homelessness. 

If you’ve lost your tax documents, don’t know where to file your taxes, or don’t know how to get your refund, here are some tips to help you prepare to file your taxes.

Should I file taxes if I don’t have to?

Even if you aren’t required to file a tax return, it’s still a good idea to do so. You may qualify for tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit (CTC). These credits can lower the amount of taxes you may owe — or even provide you a refund. To claim the credits, all you need to do is file a tax return.

How do I file taxes without a permanent address?

You must include a mailing address on your tax return. This is the primary way the IRS communicates with you.

If you don’t have a permanent address, you can ask one of the following places for permission to receive your mail:

• Shelters or service providers ( such as health care clinics and drop-in day centers)
• Organizations that provide services for people experiencing  homelessness like a Community Action Agency or Salvation Army
• A trusted relative or friend

How do I file taxes if I’ve lost my tax forms?

To file taxes, you will need Forms W-2 or 1099 from your employer.

If you did not get these forms or lost them, you have two options:

1. First, contact your employer to ask for a replacement copy. If you cannot reach your employer or don’t hear back, fill out Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, or Form 1099-R, Distributions From Pensions, Annuities, Retirement or Profit-Sharing Plans, IRAs, Insurance Contracts, etc.
2. Form 4852 and Form 1099-R ask for information about your wages and taxes that are withheld. It is helpful for you to have documents such as a final pay stub to complete it. If you do not have a final pay stub, you may still be able to fill out the form by estimating your earnings.

If you cannot estimate your earnings, you can ask for a wage and income transcript from the IRS for free. This transcript has information for Forms W-2, 1099, and 1098. You have two options to get the transcript: 

Online: Register for Get Online Transcript, to instantly view, print, or download your transcript. Online transcripts hide some of your personal information to help reduce identity theft.

To use Get Online Transcript, you will need to sign in with your IRS username or create a new account with ID.me To create a new account, you will need to have photo identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. You will also need to take a video of yourself with a smartphone or a computer or use a webcam to verify your identity through video chat.

Mail: Use Get Transcript by Mail or call the automated phone transcript service at 800-908-9946 to get your transcript by mail. You will need your mailing address from your most recent tax return. The IRS will mail unredacted transcripts with all your personal information visible to the last address they have on record for you. It will take 5 to 10 days from the time the IRS receives your request.

If your address has changed from the one used on your most recent tax return, file Form 8822, Change of Address before requesting a transcript. This form will update your mailing address to the one you will use to file your tax return. Transcripts cannot be faxed.

If neither of those options work, you can submit Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, to get tax return information by mail.

If your state requires you to file a state return, contact your state’s department of revenue or tax office to get info on any state tax withheld.

Where do I find free tax help?

If you (and your spouse if filing together) earn $69,000 or less, you could qualify for free tax help in your community. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and AARP Tax-Aide sites offer free and reliable tax filing services. 

The volunteers at these sites have an accuracy rate of over 90 percent, the highest in the industry. To find a site, visit the IRS’ site locator tool. 

If you have a basic tax return, there are free options to file online. You can visit GetYourRefund.org, an online tax service where you can file your tax return with the help of an IRS-certified volunteer if you earn less than $69,000. GetYourRefund.org and MyFreeTaxes.com both allow you to file your own tax return if your income is under $89,000. 

If you have filing needs that aren’t supported by these free tax filing options, there are many tax filing software options that may cost less than visiting a paid tax preparer. 

RESOURCES

• Claiming Social Security Benefits While Experiencing Homelessness – Social Security Administration 
• Find Shelter & Homelessness Assistance Services Directory – Department of Housing and Urban Development 

RELATED TOPICS 

• Outreach Strategies for People Experiencing Homelessness 
• Outreach Tips to Connect People Experiencing Homelessness to Stimulus Payments 

Last updated February 13, 2026

Re-entering society can be a challenging time. Filing taxes may add to that difficulty. Here’s five things you need to know about filing taxes if you are justice-involved.

1. You may be eligible for tax credits.

Tax credits reduce the amount of taxes you owe and may give you a refund at tax time. Even if you are not required to file a tax return, you may still qualify for tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC).

Income earned in prison does not qualify for the EITC or the CTC. However, you may still qualify for tax credits if you have other income sources, such as income earned before incarceration or income earned by a spouse who is not incarcerated.

To claim tax credits, you will need to file your taxes. Even if you aren’t eligible for certain credits, filing taxes is still beneficial as it provides:

• Proof of income for renting a home or applying for loans.
• A record of your work history, which can help you qualify for social security benefits in the future.

2. You can still file taxes for previous years.

If you did not file taxes in past years due to incarceration, you have three (3) years from the due date of your last tax return to claim any credits or refunds for which you may have been eligible.

If you owe taxes and haven’t filed, the IRS may charge you penalties and interest. Resolving past-due taxes is worthwhile even if it seems challenging or costly. Once you pay your balance, you may qualify for future tax credits. If you can’t pay the full amount of fees that you owe, you may qualify for a payment plan, tax debt settlement, or temporary collection delay from the IRS. Contact your nearby Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) or Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) for help. Learn more about filing your prior year taxes here.

3. There are ways to file your taxes if you are currently incarcerated.

If your stay is temporary: File for a tax extension. The extension allows you to file after the tax deadline. Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, will give you a six-month filing extension. You must file this form by the regular tax deadline, which is April 15, 2026.

If you are incarcerated for an extended amount of time: Consider one of the following options:

• In-house tax or lawyer services. Some facilities have staff or volunteers who may be available to help you with your taxes.
• Power of Attorney. You can give someone you trust permission to file your taxes and manage your finances using Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative. Both you and your representative must sign the form, and it must be submitted with your tax return. Some states also require the form to be notarized (signed by a notary public).

If you are filing with a spouse: Your spouse can fill out the tax forms for you and either bring or mail them to you for signing.

5. Free tax help is available.

For free in-person tax services, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax-Aide/ Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) offer free tax help for people who earn less than about $69,000 a year. Tax preparers at these sites are IRS-certified annually and all returns are double-checked by a second tax preparer for accuracy. Tax-Aide, operated by AARP, mostly serves seniors—but they cannot turn younger clients away. VITA offers free tax help for workers of all ages. Find your local VITA site here, and find your local Tax-Aide site here.

For free virtual tax filing services, Code for America has teamed up with VITA to provide virtual free tax help. Visit GetYourRefund.org to connect with an IRS-certified volunteer who will help you prepare, review, and file your taxes. This service is free for individuals earning under about $69,000 per year.

For free online tax preparation, MyFreeTaxes.com and GetYourRefund.org offer user-friendly online tools that allow you to file your taxes for free if you earn under $89,000. These tools are great option if you’re comfortable using computers and preparing your own taxes.

If you’ve experienced hardship or difficulties while trying to file your taxes, contact a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) for free legal help on tax issues. You can also reach out to your local Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) for help with specific tax-related concerns.

By Gionna Clift, 2024-2025 Get It Back Campaign Intern

NOTE: Information on this page is historical content.

IRS Direct File returns this year and has expanded availability so more people can file their taxes directly with the IRS for free. In 2025, Direct File is offered in twice as many states as the previous year and supports more tax situations.

Click on any of the following links to jump to a section:

• What is Direct File?
• Who can use Direct File?
• What do I need to use Direct File?
• Does Direct File support my tax needs?
• Who cannot use Direct File?
• When is Direct File available during the 2025 filing season?
• What happens after I use Direct File?
• I’ve never filed my own taxes before. What if I need help?
• Resources

What is Direct File?

Direct File is an IRS-designed free tax filing tool that allows you to file your federal taxes directly with the IRS and skip the third-party tax filing software. Direct File uses a question-and-answer method to help you fill out your federal return which means you don’t need to be a tax expert to do your own taxes.

This year, Direct File can fill in key information on your tax return like your name, address, date of birth, taxpayer identification number, and IP PIN based on your IRS Online Account. In February, Direct File will prepopulate some W-2 Form details. While you’ll still need your copy of your W-2 to check that the information is correct, these feature help streamline the Direct File process for users. (If you used Direct File in 2024, your tax data will not carryover when you file taxes in 2025.)

Who can use Direct File?

Direct File is available to residents of certain states. The IRS piloted Direct File in 2024 in 12 states. In 2025, Direct File is available in the following 25 states:  Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington State, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. You must have lived and worked in ONE participating state for all of 2024 to be eligible. If you lived in more than one Direct File state in 2024, or lived and worked in different states, you are NOT eligible for Direct File.

Visit the IRS Direct File eligibility checker to check the specific requirements for your state and to make sure the tool can support your tax needs.

What do I need to use Direct File?

First, you need a secure internet connection. You can use Direct File on a cell phone, tablet, or computer. It is available in both English and Spanish.

Next, you’ll need to have the following items ready before you start using Direct File:

• An ID.me account.
• Taxpayer Identification Number for yourself, spouse, and any dependents you claim.
  • This may be a Social Security Number (SSN), Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN) for dependents.
• Identification, like a driver’s license, state ID, or passport to verify your identity.
• Six-digit IP PIN, if you, your spouse, or dependents have one.
• 2024 tax documents (see below).

Unsure which tax documents apply to you? Use the IRS Direct File eligibility checker.

Does Direct File support my tax needs?

When you file your 2024 tax return in 2025, Direct File can support the following tax situations:

Income

• Form W-2
• Social Security income (SSA-1099)
• Unemployment compensation (1099-G)
• Interest income (1099-INT) – NEW
• Retirement income (1099-R) – NEW
• Alaska Permanent Fund dividend for Alaska residents (1099-MISC) – NEW

Tax Credits

• Earned Income Tax Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Credit for Other Dependents
• Child and Dependent Care Credit – NEW
• Premium Tax Credit – NEW
• Credit for the Elderly and Disabled – NEW
• Retirement Saving Contribution Credits – NEW

Tax Deductions

• Standard deduction
• Student loan interest – NEW
• Educator expenses – NEW
• Health Savings Accounts – NEW

Who cannot use Direct File?

While Direct File supports many tax situations, you cannot use it to file your tax return if:

• Your total income in 2024 is more than $200,000
• You had more than one employer in 2024, and your wages totaled more than $168,600
• You are filing your taxes as “Married Filing Separately” AND your wages are more than $125,000
• You file a joint tax return and one of the following are true:
  • Your spouse’s wages in 2024 are more than $200,000
  • Your spouse had more than one employer in 2024 and earned more than $168,600 in wages
  • The combined 2024 wages of you and your spouse are more than $250,000

Tip: If you are unsure if you qualify to use Direct File, check the eligibility tool to see if Direct File meets your needs this year.

When is Direct File available during the 2025 filing season?

Direct File opens January 27, 2025, and will remain available until October 15, 2025.

What happens after I use Direct File?

After you finish filing your federal tax return through Direct File you will receive a summary and confirmation of the information submitted to your email. If you need to file a state return, you’ll be connected to a state-run filing tool after using Direct File. The state-run filing tool will help you easily file your state return for free. In most states, you will be able to transfer your Direct File data to the state processing tool. This means filing your state return will only take a few more minutes!

If you live in California, Connecticut, Kansas, or Maine, you cannot export your Direct File data. You’ll be automatically directed to your state’s tax filing software and will need to input your tax information. Check the eligibility checker to learn more about the process for your state.

I’ve never filed my own taxes before. What if I need help?

If you are filing taxes for the first time or unsure of how to use Direct File, you can get help if you need it. IRS Direct File customer service provides a live chat option and offers a callback feature to help answer questions in English and Spanish. Live support is available Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern standard time.

Customer support can help with technical issues and basic tax law questions. While representatives do not have access to your personal data and cannot provide personal tax advice, this year Direct File provides an option for you to verify your account so that they can offer additional help. Customer service representatives follow the IRS Privacy Policy to keep your personal information safe.

Resources

• General tax information: what you need to know to file taxes in 2025.
• Unsure if you should file a tax return? Find out do you need to file taxes?
• Understand the different online filing options you can choose for your taxes, including Direct File.

Updated from a version written by Tatiana Johnson

Are you ready for tax time? If you aren’t sure what you need to do to successfully file your taxes, don’t worry. We’re here to help.

First, you need to know that the tax filing deadline is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Keep reading to learn about important tax credits you may be able to claim and how to file your return. Use this tax appointment checklist to get organized before you file your taxes.

Click on any of the following links to jump to a section:

• Child Tax Credit (CTC)
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
• Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)
• Unemployment Benefits and Form 1099-G
• How to protect your identity while filing taxes.
• Filing taxes with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
• Missed out on tax credits from previous years?
• Need help filing your taxes?

Child Tax Credit (CTC)

The Child Tax Credit helps with the costs of raising children and is worth up to $2,000 per qualifying child. If you don’t owe taxes or your credit is more than the taxes you owe, you can get up to $1,700 back in your tax refund. You must have AT LEAST $2,500 of earned income in 2024 to get a CTC refund, also known as the ACTC or Additional Child Tax Credit.

You and your spouse (if you have one), can claim the CTC with either a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Children you claim for the credit must have an SSN.

Read What is the Child Tax Credit? To learn more about your eligibility, how much the credit is worth, and how you can get it.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The EITC is a tax credit that may give you money back at tax time or lower the federal taxes that you owe. Whether you’re single or married, or have children or not, you could be eligible to claim this credit. The main requirement is that you must earn money from a job.

When you file your taxes in 2025, you are filing for a credit based on your earnings in 2024. Adults not raising kids at home are eligible for an EITC worth up to $632. Eligible families can claim a credit worth a maximum of $7,830.

Read What is the Earned Income Tax Credit? to learn more about your eligibility, how much the credit is worth, and how you can get it.

Note: If you do not have a qualifying child, you MUST be between the ages of 25-64 years old to claim the credit.

Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)

The CDCTC is a tax credit that helps families pay expenses for childcare needed to work or to look for work. Families can also claim this credit to pay for the care of an incapacitated spouse who is unable to care for themselves or an adult dependent. While this credit is NOT refundable, it can lower the amount of taxes you owe.

To get the credit, you will need to know how much you spent on childcare in 2024. You can refer to bank account statements, receipts, or any other documentation that tracked your expenses. The credit is worth a maximum of $1,050 for one qualifying person and $2,100 for two or more qualifying persons. You can claim qualified expenses up to $3,000 for one qualifying person or up to $6,000 for two or more qualifying persons.

Read Child and Dependent Care Credit to learn more about your eligibility, how much the credit is worth, and how you can get it.

Unemployment Benefits and Form 1099-G

If you claimed unemployment benefits for 2024, then you should receive Form 1099-G, Certain Government Payments from your state unemployment office by the end of January 2025. Your Form 1099-G will show the total amount of unemployment benefits you have received, along with any state and federal taxes you had withheld.

Unemployment benefits are considered taxable income, so you will need to report unemployment on your federal tax return.

If you received a Form 1099-G, but didn’t claim unemployment benefits, then you may be a victim of identity theft and fraud. Contact your state unemployment office to report and correct this issue.

How to protect your identity while filing taxes.

Navigating the tax filing process can be a bit tricky, especially with the increase in tax-related scams. These scams include IRS-impersonation phone calls, text messages, or emails or identity theft to claim unemployment benefits.

One way to protect yourself and your family against tax-related scams is to sign up for an IRS Identity Protection PIN  (IP PIN). An IP PIN is a six-digit number that is only known by you and the IRS and can prevent someone else from filing a tax return under your Social Security number (SSN). Even if you aren’t required to file taxes, you can still get an IP PIN if you are filing a tax return to claim credits you are eligible for. The quickest way to sign up for an IP PIN is through your IRS Online account.  If you don’t have an account, use this step-by-step guide to create one.

Additionally, beware of IRS impersonation scams. Know that the IRS will NOT start contacting you through emails, text messages, or social media to request sensitive information (like your SSN or bank account details). They will contact you through regular mail first, delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.

If you receive an email claiming to be from the IRS, you can report it to phishing@irs.gov. This FAQ provides information on the steps you can take if you are unsure of the identity of a person claiming to be from the IRS.

Filing taxes with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

ITINs are available to people who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but who do not have, and are not eligible for, a Social Security number (SSN). Having an ITIN allows you to file taxes and claim tax credits that you are eligible for.

To apply for an ITIN, you must submit IRS Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, with your completed tax return and documentation that verifies your identity and foreign status. You can use this checklist to help prepare your ITIN application.

Read How Do You File Taxes with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number? to learn more about how to apply, which tax credits you could be eligible for, and other benefits to getting an ITIN.

Missed out on tax credits from previous years?

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government passed historic temporary expansions to tax credits for 2021. This means more people were eligible to receive more money during tax time. If you were eligible for 2021 tax credit expansions and didn’t claim them, it’s not too late.  Here are the highlights:

• Child Tax Credit (CTC): The 2021 Expanded CTC made the credit available to nearly every family that is raising kids. The expansion:
  • Increased the amount of the credit to $3,000 per child age 6-17 and $3,600 per child under the age of 6.
  • Removed the minimum income requirement. This means that even if you don’t have income from a job, you can still get the credit.
  • Made the credit fully refundable. If you don’t owe any taxes, you can get the full amount as a refund.
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC):  The 2021 Expanded EITC is worth up to $6,728 for workers with children living with them. Significant expansions to the EITC for workers not raising children at home include:
  • The age of workers eligible to claim this credit changed from 25-64 to include people 19-24 and 65 and older. Additionally, youth experiencing homelessness and former foster youth who are 18 or older are eligible.
  • The credit amount is nearly tripled to $1,502.
  • Additionally, there is a ‘lookback’ rule for the EITC that allows anyone eligible for the credit to choose to use their earnings from 2019 instead of 2021, if it can help you get a larger credit.
• Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCTC): Key changes to this credit for tax year 2021 only include:
  • The credit is fully refundable. This means that the credit can provide you with a tax refund even if you don’t owe taxes.
  • The credit is worth up to $4,000 for one qualifying person or up to $8,000 for two or more qualifying persons.
  • The amount of qualified expenses increased to up to $8,000 for one qualifying person and up to $16,000 for two or more qualifying persons.
• Stimulus payments: Congress approved 3 rounds of stimulus payments for continued COVID relief. While the deadline for the first two stimulus checks was May 17, 2024, it’s not too late to claim the third stimulus payment. You will need to file a 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for the third stimulus check.

Didn’t get some of these credits that you think you may be eligible for? Don’t worry! You can still claim them when you file a prior year tax return.

Since you have up to 3 years to file prior year taxes, you must file a 2021 federal tax return by April 15, 2025. This is the last year to file a 2021 tax return, and you must mail it to the IRS. You cannot file your 2021 tax return electronically.

If you were not required to file a tax return, there is no penalty for filing taxes after the original April deadline. If you were required to file taxes, and you missed the deadline, filing late (and claiming credits you are eligible for) could decrease the penalty amount you may owe.

If you need to file a past due tax return, you can get help at some local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites or through GetYourRefund.org. VITA sites are free and operated by volunteers that are IRS-certified. Contact your local VITA site before visiting to find out if they can file prior year tax returns.

Need help filing your taxes?

• Visit Code for America’s Get Your Refund website to connect with an IRS-certified volunteer that can help you file your taxes for free or to file your own return.
• Contact your local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or AARP Foundation’s Tax Aide site to get free tax help from an IRS-certified volunteer.
• Learn more about other free tax filing options, including Direct File.
  • You may be eligible to use Direct File to file your 2024 federal tax return through an IRS-created filing tool if you live one of the following 24 states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, or Wyoming.