Free and Low-Cost Tax Help for Seniors: VITA and TCE
You may not need to pay for tax preparation. Learn about free IRS-sponsored programs, including Tax Counseling for the Elderly, and how to find a site near you.
The short version
- VITA and TCE offer free tax preparation by IRS-certified volunteers for eligible taxpayers.
- TCE specializes in questions about pensions and retirement issues for people 60 and older.
- Bring identification, Social Security cards and all tax documents to your appointment.
In this guide
Paying for tax preparation can be expensive. Fortunately, free help is available through programs sponsored by the IRS and run by trained volunteers in communities across the country.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
The VITA program offers free basic tax return preparation to eligible taxpayers, generally including:
- People who make moderate incomes (the IRS publishes the current limit each year)
- Persons with disabilities
- Taxpayers with limited English proficiency
VITA sites are often located at community centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls and other convenient locations.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
The TCE program offers free tax help for all taxpayers, particularly those who are 60 years of age and older, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to older adults.
Many TCE sites are operated by AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, which provides free tax preparation with a focus on taxpayers who are 50 and older and have low to moderate incomes. You do not need to be an AARP member.
Volunteer qualifications
Volunteers in these programs are trained and IRS-certified before helping taxpayers, and returns typically go through a quality review.
What they can help with
Services vary by site, but volunteers commonly help with:
- Wages and retirement income, including pensions, IRA distributions and Social Security benefits
- Interest and dividend income
- Standard and itemized deductions, including the senior deduction available for tax years 2025 through 2028
- Common credits
- Electronic filing and direct deposit of refunds
Some complex situations, such as certain business returns or rental property, may be outside their scope. Ask when you call.
How to find a site
- Use the IRS VITA/TCE Locator Tool on irs.gov.
- Call the IRS at 1-800-906-9887.
- Use the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site locator online or call 1-888-227-7669.
- Ask at your local library or senior center.
Most sites operate from late January through mid-April. Some require appointments, while others accept walk-ins. Some offer virtual or drop-off options.
What to bring
- Photo identification for you and your spouse
- Social Security cards or ITIN letters for everyone on the return
- Your prior year's tax return, if available
- All income documents, such as W-2s, 1099-R (pensions and IRAs), SSA-1099 (Social Security), 1099-INT and 1099-DIV
- Information on deductions and credits, such as property taxes and charitable contributions if you itemize
- Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
- If filing jointly, both spouses generally need to be present to sign
Other free options
- IRS Free File offers free online tax software for eligible taxpayers.
- Low Income Taxpayer Clinics can help with disputes with the IRS.
- The IRS website has extensive information for seniors and retirees.
Watch out for tax scams
The IRS will not call, email or text you demanding immediate payment, threatening arrest or asking for gift cards. If you receive such contact, do not respond. Report it to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.
Terrameritavi is an independent publication and is not affiliated with the IRS or AARP. This article is general information, not tax advice.
