Free Help from the IRS

This is archived information that pertains only to the 2001 Tax Year. If you
are looking for information for the current tax year, go to the Tax Prep Help Area.

Sometimes you just need a little help preparing your federal tax return. The IRS offers free assistance by computer, telephone, fax, and in person. The IRS can assist you with obtaining forms, publications and answers to a wide range of tax questions. If you qualify, IRS can even help you find free tax preparation.

Personal Computer

Through the Internet, you can access a wealth of free tax information at the IRS web site, www.irs.gov . Check out topics such as the “Forms and Publications Finder“ to download the forms, instructions or publications you need, ”Frequently Asked Questions” on the Individuals page, and the “Small Business Corner” on the Business page. If you can´t find your answer, you may submit your tax question via e-mail.

Telephone

Order forms, instructions and publications by calling toll free 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676). Ask tax questions by calling the toll-free customer service line, 1-800-829-1040, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. weekdays and 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays through April 13. TTY/TDD users may call 1-800-829-4059 to ask tax questions or to order forms and publications.

TeleTax

Call 1-800-829-4477 to hear pre-recorded messages covering various tax topics, or to check on the status of your refund.

TaxFax Service

Using the phone attached to your fax machine, you can receive forms and publications by calling 1-703-368-9694.

Walk-In Service

You may walk in to many post offices, libraries and IRS offices to pick up many forms and publications.

Assistance with your return

Free tax preparation is available through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs in most communities. Volunteers help prepare basic tax returns for low-income taxpayers, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and non-English speaking people. Call 1-800-829-1040 to find the VITA or TCE site nearest you. You may also call AARP – the largest TCE participant – at 1-877-227-7844 to see if there´s a Tax Aide site in your community.

Whichever method is best for you, the IRS is there to meet your tax information needs.

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