Free tax assistance programs are available for low-to-moderate income families and older adults across Wisconsin and Illinois this tax season.
Residents can benefit from the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers certified, volunteer-led tax preparation services. Specifically targeting households with income levels at or below approximately $67,000, the VITA program also caters to individuals with disabilities and those with limited English-speaking skills.
Meredith Melland from the Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service highlights this invaluable service for many individuals struggling with the costs commonly associated with tax preparation. With the April 15, 2025 tax-filing deadline fast approaching, early engagement with these programs is encouraged to secure timely assistance.
Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris puts emphasis on the accessibility of these resources, stating, "It is important for Illinois taxpayers to know they can receive help from qualified volunteers certified by the IRS at various locations statewide." For many residents, the availability of trained volunteers is especially important as professional tax services can impose high fees.
Similarly, Illinois Department on Aging Acting Director Mary Killough noted, "Tax professionals and software companies can charge hefty fees, which are often unaffordable for low and moderate-income older adults." This sentiment resonates particularly with seniors who may face unique challenges with tax filing.
The VITA program is not the only resource available for this demographic. The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program complements VITA’s offerings by specializing in providing assistance to taxpayers aged 60 and over. This ensures the unique challenges seniors may face, particularly concerning pensions and retirement income, are adequately addressed.
Alongside VITA and TCE, the AARP Foundation operates its Tax-Aide program, focusing on helping individuals over 50 or members of low-to-moderate income households. They provide this free service at various community locations without requiring AARP membership for assistance.
Locations for these services can be found at community centers, libraries, and even at financial institutions. For those residing in coverage areas, assistance is available at Ladder Up TAP, which also helps families earning up to $67,000 annually. Such programs aim to serve full-year Illinois residents, ensuring their needs are met effectively.
Taxpayers unsure of how to proceed can find help through the Illinois Department of Revenue's website, tax.illinois.gov, or by contacting the Taxpayer Assistance Division at 800-732-8866.
With several entities mobilized to assist, it is undeniable there are meaningful resources available to mitigate the struggles of tax filing. Yet proactive engagement is necessary; individuals seeking help are encouraged to schedule appointments as time slots can become quickly filled.
For Milwaukee residents, AARP’s Tax-Aide sites are particularly notable. Locations such as the Riverworks Development Corporation and La Casa de Esperanza are among the community-centric institutions where trained volunteers assist with tax preparation through VITA services. The outreach by these organizations reflects the genuine need for accessible tax assistance within the community.
The Social Development Commission (SDC) is also aiming to reinstate its VITA site soon, recognizing the value these programs play within the local ecosystem. Interim CEO Jorge Franco indicated, "It is SDC’s every intention to get VITA back up and running ASAP,” as they pursue IRS approval for necessary resources.
Given the situation, residents are reminded to act quickly. Many organizations, like Prime Financial Credit Union and various local churches, provide such services through specific timeframes. For example, St. Francis of Assisi Parish offers VITA appointments at convenient times on Saturdays.
All of these options reflect the concerted effort community organizations are making to assist those who may find completing their taxes overwhelming. It is recommended to gather the necessary tax documents and take advantage of these services before the April 15 deadline looms large.
Free tax assistance is both available and attainable for those who seek it, alleviating the burdens often felt by low to moderate income families and older adults during filing season.