Friday, February 04, 2022
As we approach tax season, older adults and their caregivers are often looking for assistance in preparing and filing tax returns. Below is some helpful information and resources for filing your 2021 tax return.
NEW TAX FILING DEADLINES
Federal Tax Returns are now due on APRIL 18, 2022
Illinois State Tax Returns are now due on APRIL 18, 2022
The IRS has announced that instead of the traditional April 15 deadline, taxpayers will have until April 18, 2022, to file and pay their due income taxes, or to request an automatic 6-month extension. The reason for the delay this year is due to a holiday recognized in the nation’s capital.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
The IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.
The VITA program has operated for over 50 years. VITA sites offer free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, including:
- People who generally make $54,000 or less
- Persons with disabilities; and
- Limited English-speaking taxpayers
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly, or call (800) 906-9887
Other options to tax preparation assistance:
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Online, or call (888) 227-7669
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Locator
LadderUP primarily for low-to-moderate income families
Illinois taxpayers can file their state returns for free at MyTax.Illinois.gov. If you have income tax questions, email [email protected] or call (800) 732-8866. Qualified taxpayers may also be eligible to participate in the IRS’ Free File program for federal returns (more details here).
NOTE: Please call to find out how these programs are operating during the COVID-19 pandemic
Senior Services Associates:
Free tax preparation is available in several of Senior Services Associates Senior Centers. Please click on the city closest to you to view a flyer with important details about this year’s available services.
Other Tax Related Resources
AARP:
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program
Find Your 2021 Tax Bracket
IRS:
Tax Counseling for the Elderly
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program
Resources to Help You Prepare Your Tax Return and Resolve Tax Disputes
Free Tax Prep Locator
