Use IRS Free File for Free Online Tax Prep & E-Filing

It's time to file our tax returns.  Last year I discovered www.IRS.gov/freefile.  It provides free online tax preparation and e-filing for people earning $62,000 or less a year.  The IRS partners with 13 leading tax software companies to provide free access to the most innovative and secure tax software.  Free state return options are also available. 

 Using Free File, most taxpayers simply have to check a box to report health care coverage for the entire year so adjustments can be made to tax liability.

More than 46 million returns have been filed through Free File since its inception in 2003.  Seventy percent of US taxpayers are eligible for free tax assistance through Free File.

 Free File Alliance member companies have continually worked with the IRS to strengthen the Free File program.  Taxpayers have consistently reported that it is user-friendly and efficient. Responding to a 2009 IRS survey, 96 percent of users said they found Free File easy to use and 98 percent said they would recommend the program to others.

I very much appreciated this program last year.  Give it a try this year and make filing your taxes a bit easier.  

If your tax situation is a bit more complicated, you aren't comfortable with computer programs or you are eligible for special Montana programs like the Elderly Homeowner and Renter Credit, and your income is $50,000 or less, you can get assistance in Missoula.  Visit the University of Montana School of Business Administration on a Saturday between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through March 5.   Students in The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program provide personal assistance.  Assistance is offered on a first come first serve basis.  No appointments are available. This web site tells you what information you will need to bring:  http://www.business.umt.edu/stories/student-volunteers-offer-missoula-community-free-tax-assistance.php