Sen. Carper Urges Delawareans to Use Free Online Tax Preparation and Filing Available through the IRS

WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) encouraged Delawareans to take advantage of free tax preparation services available through the IRS Free File program. Since its inception in 2003, IRS Free File has offered low-to-moderate income taxpayers free access to leading commercial tax preparation software. This year, every taxpayer with a 2010 Adjusted Gross Income of $58,000 or less may visit www.irs.gov/efile to prepare, complete and electronically file their federal tax returns at no cost.

“IRS Free File gives 100 million Americans online access to tax preparation software that allows them to easily prepare and electronically file federal taxes at no cost,” said Sen. Carper. “The program is available to anyone who made $58,000 or less last year, and can deliver refunds in as few as 10 days. I encourage all eligible Delawareans to take advantage of this useful IRS program that will save them time and money on the tax preparation process and ensure that their federal income tax returns are filed in a responsible and timely manner.”

To begin, taxpayers may visit the IRS website, www.IRS.gov, and click on the “Free File” icon. Users will find a list of Free File Alliance member companies and may either choose the one that fits their needs or utilize the “help me find a company” tool. After selecting a company, taxpayers will be transferred to the company’s website to prepare, complete and electronically file their federal income tax returns. Three of the 19 participating software companies also offer services in Spanish.

“The IRS Free File program walks taxpayers through the filing process to make it simple, fast and free,” said Tim Hugo, executive director of the Free File Alliance. “Free File software not only increases accuracy but delivers a quick turn-around on tax refunds, getting it to you in as little as 10 days. Free File Alliance member companies have continually worked with the IRS to strengthen IRS Free File and ensure that it remains both accurate and secure.”

This year, the Free File Alliance has also partnered with the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), a service for low-to-moderate income taxpayers. Thanks to the new partnership, Free File Alliance member software will be available on self assist kiosks at VITA sites in 20 states across the country. VITA’s partnership with the Free File Alliance will extend its reach and help the IRS provide expanded free tax prep services to more taxpayers who need additional assistance.