Tax Help
The IRS will work with you. Most people don't ask.
Free tax prep, hardship status, payment plans, and what to do when you owe money you can't pay. The IRS has more flexibility than people think — but you have to ask in writing.
Free tax preparation
Today
If your income is under about $67,000, find a free VITA site. Trained volunteers prepare and file your return for free.
This week
Bring last year's return, all your W-2s and 1099s, your Social Security card, ID, and bank info for direct deposit.
VITA — Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
Free, IRS-certified tax preparation. Income limits around $67,000. Find a site at irs.gov or call 1-800-906-9887.
TCE — Tax Counseling for the Elderly
Same idea, focused on people 60+. Many AARP-run sites; free regardless of AARP membership.
IRS Free File
Free online tax software if your income is under $84,000. Several brand-name companies participate. Available at irs.gov/freefile.
If you owe and can't pay
Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status
If paying anything would create real economic hardship, the IRS can mark your account "Currently Not Collectible." Collection stops while you're in CNC status. Interest still accrues, but no levies, no garnishments. You stay in CNC until your situation changes. Request it by calling the IRS or by filing Form 433-F (or 433-A if your situation is more complex).
Installment agreement
If you can pay something but not all at once, the IRS will set up monthly payments. If you owe under $50,000, you can usually set this up online without any paperwork. Apply at irs.gov/payments.
Offer in Compromise (OIC)
The IRS may settle your tax debt for less than the full amount if your situation truly meets the criteria. Most people who apply are rejected, but for genuinely strong cases it's powerful. Don't pay a "tax resolution" company a fee to file — the application costs $205 (waived for low-income filers) and Low Income Taxpayer Clinics will help you for free.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
If you worked but earned a low or moderate income, you may get a refund worth up to several thousand dollars — even if you didn't owe any tax. Many people who qualify never claim it. VITA volunteers will check this for you. The IRS has a quick eligibility tool at irs.gov/eitc.
The 10-year clock
The IRS generally has 10 years from the date a tax is assessed to collect it. After that, the debt expires. This is called the Collection Statute Expiration Date (CSED). It doesn't always help — there are events that pause the clock — but it's a real factor in your overall strategy. A Low Income Taxpayer Clinic can pull your account transcript and tell you where you stand.
Where to get help
Read this next
→ What to say when the IRS sends you a bill you can't pay