Looking for a free ride through tax season? Illinois residents may just be in luck, according to a recent report by the Illinois Department of Revenue. For those grappling with the complexities of income tax filing, free preparation assistance, made possible by IRS-certified volunteers, is now within reach for taxpayers earning below a certain threshold and seniors seeking guidance on pension and retirement intricacies.
As confirmed by the Illinois Department of Revenue, these gratis services are a boon for taxpayers, especially those who find themselves tangled in the often confusing web of state and federal tax obligations; surprisingly, free help is available in many locales, but this all depends on the number and availability of the generous souls willing to donate their time. "I encourage Illinois taxpayers to take advantage of the free help they can receive from volunteers certified by the IRS at various locations statewide," David Harris, Illinois Department of Revenue Director, reportedly stated admiration for the volunteers while describing the help offered.
To aid those over 60, the Illinois Department on Aging's Interim Director, Becky Dragoo, remarked on the boon these services provide, "Navigating the tax process can be tricky for filers of any age, including older adults," as per the state's official news outlet, highlighting how the program is designed to shrink costs and stress alike for older Illinois residents. The VITA and TCE programs are strategically located in city centers, libraries, schools, and other easily accessible sites to fulfill their mission of serving people making $64,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and those less proficient in English.
In a similar vein, the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program zeros in on the fiscal needs of those aged 50 and up, as well as low-to-moderate income individuals, with tax help that doesn't discriminate based on AARP membership, also these services are similarly subject to local volunteer availability, so it's worth checking out. Then there's the Ladder Up Tax Assistance Program catering to the Chicagoland taxpayers, helping families and individuals raking in up to $64,000 annually—or $32,000 for lone wolves—with their state tax filings.
According to the Illinois Department of Revenue's website, tax.illinois.gov, those interested in the free tax assistance can get the full scoop. Taxpayers with questions can direct them to IDOR's Taxpayer Assistance Division at 800-732-8866 or drop by any of IDOR's offices across the state including Chicago, Des Plaines, Fairview Heights, Marion, Rockford, and Springfield, with staff on hand Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., all eager to sort out any state income tax filing quandaries.
