Have you ever wondered what the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) can do to help you? The IRS offers a variety of programs and services to assist taxpayers with their tax obligations.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on [date] to reflect the latest information on IRS help.
We’ve analyzed the IRS website to dig up all the information you need to know to make the right decision.
Key Differences
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Free File | Allows taxpayers to file their taxes online for free using software provided by the IRS. |
| VITA | Provides free tax preparation assistance to low-income taxpayers. |
| TCE | Offers free tax counseling and education to taxpayers. |
Transition to main article topics
- What is the IRS?
- What services does the IRS offer?
- How can I get help from the IRS?
- What are the benefits of using IRS help?
Internal Revenue Service Help
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers a variety of programs and services to assist taxpayers with their tax obligations. These services are essential for ensuring that taxpayers are able to file their taxes accurately and on time, and that they receive the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
- Free File: Allows taxpayers to file their taxes online for free using software provided by the IRS.
- VITA: Provides free tax preparation assistance to low-income taxpayers.
- TCE: Offers free tax counseling and education to taxpayers.
- Online Account: Allows taxpayers to view their tax information, make payments, and update their personal information online.
- Phone Assistance: Taxpayers can call the IRS with questions about their taxes or to get help with filing their return.
- Walk-in Assistance: Taxpayers can visit an IRS office to get help with their taxes or to file their return.
- Publications: The IRS publishes a variety of publications that provide information on tax topics.
- Forms and Instructions: The IRS provides forms and instructions that taxpayers can use to file their taxes.
- Taxpayer Advocate: The Taxpayer Advocate can help taxpayers who are experiencing problems with the IRS.
These are just a few of the many services that the IRS offers to taxpayers. By taking advantage of these services, taxpayers can ensure that they are meeting their tax obligations and that they are receiving the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
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Free File
Free File is a partnership between the IRS and tax software companies that allows taxpayers to file their taxes online for free. This is a valuable service for taxpayers who cannot afford to pay for tax preparation software or who do not have the time or expertise to prepare their own taxes. Free File software is easy to use and can help taxpayers maximize their refunds.
Free File is an important component of IRS help because it provides taxpayers with a free and easy way to file their taxes. This can save taxpayers time and money, and it can help to ensure that they are filing their taxes accurately and on time.
Here are some examples of how Free File can help taxpayers:
- Free File can help taxpayers who are low-income or who have simple tax returns. These taxpayers may not be able to afford to pay for tax preparation software, and they may not have the time or expertise to prepare their own taxes.
- Free File can help taxpayers who are self-employed or who have complex tax returns. These taxpayers may need to use tax preparation software to help them calculate their taxes and deductions.
- Free File can help taxpayers who are filing their taxes late. These taxpayers may not have the time to prepare their taxes on their own, and they may not be able to afford to pay for tax preparation software.
Free File is a valuable service that can help taxpayers file their taxes accurately and on time. This can save taxpayers time and money, and it can help to ensure that they are receiving the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Free | Taxpayers can file their taxes online for free using software provided by the IRS. |
| Easy to use | Free File software is easy to use and can help taxpayers maximize their refunds. |
| Accurate | Free File software is accurate and can help taxpayers avoid mistakes on their tax returns. |
| On time | Free File can help taxpayers file their taxes on time, even if they are filing late. |
VITA
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is an IRS-sponsored program that provides free tax preparation assistance to low-income taxpayers. VITA is a valuable service that can help low-income taxpayers file their taxes accurately and on time, and it can help them to claim the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
- VITA can help low-income taxpayers who cannot afford to pay for tax preparation services. Many low-income taxpayers do not have the money to pay for tax preparation software or to hire a tax preparer. VITA can provide these taxpayers with free tax preparation assistance, so they can file their taxes without having to worry about the cost.
- VITA can help low-income taxpayers who are not familiar with the tax code. The tax code is complex and can be difficult to understand, especially for low-income taxpayers who may not have a lot of experience with taxes. VITA volunteers are trained to help taxpayers understand the tax code and to prepare their taxes accurately.
- VITA can help low-income taxpayers who need help claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC is a tax credit that can provide low-income taxpayers with a refund of up to $6,935. VITA volunteers can help taxpayers determine if they are eligible for the EITC and can help them to claim the credit on their tax return.
- VITA can help low-income taxpayers who need help filing their taxes electronically. E-filing is the fastest and most accurate way to file taxes. VITA volunteers can help taxpayers e-file their tax returns, so they can get their refund faster.
VITA is a valuable service that can help low-income taxpayers file their taxes accurately and on time. This can save taxpayers time and money, and it can help to ensure that they are receiving the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
TCE
The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program is an IRS-sponsored program that offers free tax counseling and education to taxpayers who are 60 years of age or older. TCE is a valuable service that can help senior citizens file their taxes accurately and on time, and it can help them to claim the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
- TCE can help senior citizens who are not familiar with the tax code. The tax code is complex and can be difficult to understand, especially for senior citizens who may not have a lot of experience with taxes. TCE volunteers are trained to help taxpayers understand the tax code and to prepare their taxes accurately.
- TCE can help senior citizens who need help claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC is a tax credit that can provide senior citizens with a refund of up to $6,935. TCE volunteers can help taxpayers determine if they are eligible for the EITC and can help them to claim the credit on their tax return.
- TCE can help senior citizens who need help filing their taxes electronically. E-filing is the fastest and most accurate way to file taxes. TCE volunteers can help taxpayers e-file their tax returns, so they can get their refund faster.
- TCE can help senior citizens who have questions about their taxes. TCE volunteers are available to answer taxpayers’ questions about their taxes, even after they have filed their return.
TCE is a valuable service that can help senior citizens file their taxes accurately and on time. This can save taxpayers time and money, and it can help to ensure that they are receiving the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
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Online Account
The IRS Online Account is a valuable tool that can help taxpayers manage their taxes and stay up-to-date on their tax obligations. With an Online Account, taxpayers can:
- View their tax information: Taxpayers can view their tax transcripts, account balances, and payment history. This information can be helpful for taxpayers who are preparing their taxes or who need to track their tax payments.
- Make payments: Taxpayers can make estimated tax payments, extension payments, and balance due payments online. This is a convenient and secure way to pay taxes.
- Update their personal information: Taxpayers can update their address, phone number, and email address online. This is important for ensuring that the IRS has the most up-to-date information on file.
The IRS Online Account is a safe and secure way for taxpayers to manage their taxes. Taxpayers can create an Online Account at IRS.gov.
Phone Assistance
The IRS provides phone assistance to taxpayers who have questions about their taxes or who need help with filing their return. This is a valuable service that can help taxpayers get the information and assistance they need to file their taxes accurately and on time.
- Convenience: Taxpayers can call the IRS from anywhere in the United States. This is a convenient option for taxpayers who do not have access to a computer or who do not want to use the IRS website.
- Expertise: The IRS phone assistance representatives are trained to answer a wide range of tax questions. They can help taxpayers with everything from understanding the tax code to completing their tax return.
- Accuracy: The IRS phone assistance representatives are accurate and reliable. They can help taxpayers avoid making mistakes on their tax return, which can save them time and money.
- Timeliness: The IRS phone assistance representatives can help taxpayers file their tax return on time. This is important because taxpayers who file their return late may have to pay penalties and interest.
The IRS phone assistance is a valuable resource for taxpayers who need help with their taxes. Taxpayers can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
Walk-in Assistance
Walk-in assistance is an important component of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) help because it provides taxpayers with a face-to-face interaction with an IRS representative. This can be helpful for taxpayers who have complex tax issues or who need help understanding the tax code. Walk-in assistance is also available for taxpayers who need help filing their tax return.
There are several benefits to using walk-in assistance. First, taxpayers can get personalized help from an IRS representative. This can be helpful for taxpayers who have unique tax situations or who need help understanding the tax code. Second, walk-in assistance is free. Taxpayers do not have to pay a fee to get help from an IRS representative.
Taxpayers can find their local IRS office by visiting the IRS website. The IRS website also provides a list of services that are available at each IRS office.
Here are some examples of how walk-in assistance can help taxpayers:
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- A taxpayer can get help understanding the tax code.
- A taxpayer can get help completing their tax return.
- A taxpayer can get help resolving a tax issue.
- A taxpayer can get help filing an amended tax return.
Walk-in assistance is a valuable resource for taxpayers who need help with their taxes. Taxpayers can get personalized help from an IRS representative for free.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Personalized help | Taxpayers can get personalized help from an IRS representative. |
| Free | Walk-in assistance is free. |
| Convenient | Taxpayers can find their local IRS office by visiting the IRS website. |
Publications
Publications are an important component of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) help because they provide taxpayers with a wealth of information on a variety of tax topics. These publications can help taxpayers understand the tax code, prepare their tax returns, and resolve tax issues.
- Tax Topic Information: IRS publications cover a wide range of tax topics, including individual income taxes, business taxes, and estate and gift taxes. This information can help taxpayers understand their tax obligations and make informed decisions about their taxes.
- Clear and Concise Guidance: IRS publications are written in clear and concise language, making them easy for taxpayers to understand. They also provide examples and illustrations to help taxpayers apply the tax code to their specific situations.
- Free and Accessible: IRS publications are free and accessible to all taxpayers. They can be downloaded from the IRS website or ordered by phone or mail.
- Expert Authors: IRS publications are written by experts in the field of taxation. This ensures that the information provided is accurate and reliable.
Publications are a valuable resource for taxpayers who need help with their taxes. They can help taxpayers understand the tax code, prepare their tax returns, and resolve tax issues. Taxpayers can find IRS publications on the IRS website or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
Forms and Instructions
Forms and instructions are essential components of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) help. They provide taxpayers with the necessary tools to understand their tax obligations and file their tax returns accurately and on time.
- Filing Requirements: The IRS provides forms and instructions that help taxpayers determine whether they are required to file a tax return. This is important because taxpayers who fail to file a required return may be subject to penalties.
- Tax Forms: The IRS provides a variety of tax forms that taxpayers can use to file their tax returns. These forms include the Form 1040, which is used by individual taxpayers, and the Form 1120, which is used by corporations.
- Instructions: The IRS provides instructions for each tax form. These instructions explain how to complete the form and what information is required. This is important because taxpayers who make mistakes on their tax return may have to pay additional taxes or penalties.
- Online Tools: The IRS provides a variety of online tools that can help taxpayers file their taxes. These tools include the IRS Free File program, which allows taxpayers to file their taxes online for free, and the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which provides free tax preparation help to low-income taxpayers.
Forms and instructions are a valuable resource for taxpayers who need help filing their taxes. By using these tools, taxpayers can ensure that they are meeting their tax obligations and that they are receiving the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
Taxpayer Advocate
The Taxpayer Advocate is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers resolve problems with the IRS. The Taxpayer Advocate can help taxpayers who are experiencing a variety of problems, including:
- Unresolved tax issues
- Delinquent taxes
- IRS audits
- Collection actions
- Tax scams
The Taxpayer Advocate can help taxpayers in a variety of ways, including:
- Providing information and assistance
- Representing taxpayers before the IRS
- Negotiating settlements
- Filing appeals
- Referring taxpayers to other resources
The Taxpayer Advocate is a valuable resource for taxpayers who are experiencing problems with the IRS. The Taxpayer Advocate can help taxpayers resolve their problems and ensure that they are treated fairly by the IRS.
Here is an example of how the Taxpayer Advocate can help taxpayers:
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A taxpayer was facing a large tax bill that they could not afford to pay. The taxpayer contacted the Taxpayer Advocate, who helped the taxpayer negotiate a payment plan with the IRS. The payment plan allowed the taxpayer to pay off their tax debt over time, without having to worry about being penalized by the IRS.
The Taxpayer Advocate is a free service that is available to all taxpayers. Taxpayers can contact the Taxpayer Advocate by calling 1-877-777-4778 or by visiting the Taxpayer Advocate website.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Free service | The Taxpayer Advocate is a free service that is available to all taxpayers. |
| Independent organization | The Taxpayer Advocate is an independent organization within the IRS, which means that it is not subject to the same pressures as the IRS. |
| Experienced staff | The Taxpayer Advocate is staffed by experienced professionals who are knowledgeable about the tax code and IRS procedures. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Internal Revenue Service Help
This section addresses common questions and misconceptions regarding Internal Revenue Service (IRS) help.
Question 1: What types of help does the IRS offer to taxpayers?
The IRS offers a wide range of help to taxpayers, including free tax preparation assistance, tax counseling and education, online account access, phone assistance, walk-in assistance, publications, forms and instructions, and taxpayer advocate services.
Question 2: Who is eligible for free tax preparation assistance from the IRS?
Taxpayers who meet certain income requirements are eligible for free tax preparation assistance from the IRS through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program.
Question 3: How can I access my IRS online account?
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Taxpayers can create an IRS online account at IRS.gov. Once you have an online account, you can view your tax information, make payments, and update your personal information.
Question 4: What is the best way to contact the IRS for assistance?
The best way to contact the IRS for assistance is by phone at 1-800-829-1040. You can also contact the IRS by mail or through your local IRS office.
Question 5: What should I do if I have a problem with the IRS?
If you have a problem with the IRS, you should contact the Taxpayer Advocate. The Taxpayer Advocate is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers resolve problems with the IRS.
Question 6: Where can I find more information about IRS help?
You can find more information about IRS help on the IRS website at IRS.gov.
The IRS offers a variety of help to taxpayers, including free tax preparation assistance, tax counseling and education, online account access, phone assistance, walk-in assistance, publications, forms and instructions, and taxpayer advocate services.
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Taxpayers should take advantage of these services to ensure that they are meeting their tax obligations and that they are receiving the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
For more information about IRS help, please visit the IRS website at IRS.gov.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Internal Revenue Service Help
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers a variety of help to taxpayers, including free tax preparation assistance, tax counseling and education, online account access, phone assistance, walk-in assistance, publications, forms and instructions, and taxpayer advocate services. Taxpayers should take advantage of these services to ensure that they are meeting their tax obligations and that they are receiving the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
Tip 1: File your taxes electronically. E-filing is the fastest and most accurate way to file your taxes. You can e-file your taxes using IRS Free File software, which is available to taxpayers who meet certain income requirements.Tip 2: Use the IRS online account. Your IRS online account allows you to view your tax information, make payments, and update your personal information. Creating an online account is free and easy.Tip 3: Contact the IRS by phone. If you have questions about your taxes or need help with filing your return, you can contact the IRS by phone at 1-800-829-1040. The IRS phone assistance representatives are available to help you Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Eastern Time.Tip 4: Visit an IRS office. If you need in-person assistance with your taxes, you can visit your local IRS office. IRS offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Eastern Time.Tip 5: Get help from a tax professional. If you have complex tax issues, you may want to consider getting help from a tax professional. Tax professionals can help you prepare your tax return, represent you before the IRS, and negotiate settlements.Tip 6: Take advantage of the Taxpayer Advocate. The Taxpayer Advocate is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers resolve problems with the IRS. The Taxpayer Advocate can help you if you are experiencing a variety of problems, including unresolved tax issues, delinquent taxes, IRS audits, collection actions, and tax scams.Tip 7: Stay informed about tax laws and regulations. The tax code is constantly changing, so it is important to stay informed about the latest tax laws and regulations. You can stay informed by reading IRS publications, visiting the IRS website, and talking to a tax professional.Tip 8: Keep good records. Keeping good records is essential for filing your taxes accurately and on time. You should keep records of your income, deductions, and credits. You should also keep copies of your tax returns and other important tax documents.By following these tips, you can take advantage of the help that the IRS offers and ensure that you are meeting your tax obligations.
Summary
The IRS offers a variety of help to taxpayers, including free tax preparation assistance, tax counseling and education, online account access, phone assistance, walk-in assistance, publications, forms and instructions, and taxpayer advocate services. Taxpayers should take advantage of these services to ensure that they are meeting their tax obligations and that they are receiving the refunds or credits that they are entitled to.
By following the tips outlined in this article, you can make the most of the help that the IRS offers.
Conclusion
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers taxpayers a wide range of help to ensure that they meet their tax obligations and receive any refunds or credits due to them. Help is available through a variety of channels, including online, by phone, and in person, ensuring that all taxpayers have the support they need to file their taxes accurately and on time.
By taking advantage of the help offered by the IRS, taxpayers can save time and money, and have peace of mind knowing that their taxes are being handled correctly. The IRS is committed to providing taxpayers with the help they need to meet their tax obligations, and encourages all taxpayers to take advantage of the resources available to them.
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