If you’re aged 60 or older the IRS has free tax assistance programs, probably with a location near you.
The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program is a free service offered by the IRS for all taxpayers, particularly those who are age 60 and older. TCE programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.
TCE volunteers are IRS-certified and TCE sites are open from February through April at many libraries and community centers.
TCE volunteers are often co-located with VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) volunteers. VITA gives free tax help to people who generally make $69,000 or less, persons with disabilities and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns.
To find a TCE site near you, visit: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-you-by-volunteers
Click on the VITA/TEC Locator Tool then enter your zip code. You can also check for AARP-staffed tax help centers.
Before you go, gather last year’s tax return, IDs, and other documents. For a list of what to bring, see this IRS publication: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p3676bsp.pdf
Tax Assistance Centers
The IRS announced that it is extending weekly office hours at more than 200 Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) nationwide. TACs with extended weekday hours will open early (7 am) and close late (6 pm) on select week days. Some offices will be open on Saturdays.
You can find a nearby TAC and view office hours at the IRS TAC Locator tool. The tool provides office locations, directions, available services, and information about extended hours.
Before visiting an IRS Tax Assistance Center you’re encouraged to call for an appointment and prepare for your visit. For details, see: IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers
If you want over the phone assistance you can find increased help available on the toll-free line and an expanded customer call back feature designed to significantly reduce wait times.
Individual taxpayers can call this number from 7 am to 7 pm local time for assistance: 800-829-1040. Businesses, non-profits and other callers can find more numbers at: IRS Telephone Assistance
Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file beyond the April 15 deadline can get a six-month extension by filing Form 4868.
The tax filing deadline for most taxpayers this year is Wednesday, April 15, 2026. State income tax deadlines may differ. The IRS urges taxpayers to check with their state tax agencies for those details.