Free help with IRS problems: Taxpayer Advocate, LITCs and VITA

Free and low-cost tax help

You may be able to get IRS help for free. The Taxpayer Advocate Service helps people whose IRS problems aren’t being resolved through normal channels, Low Income Taxpayer Clinics represent eligible taxpayers in IRS disputes for free or a small fee, and VITA sites prepare returns for free for people with low to moderate incomes.

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Taxpayer Advocate Service

An independent organization within the IRS that helps when an IRS problem is causing financial difficulty, or hasn’t been resolved through normal IRS channels. Its help is free. Use its online qualifier tool or submit a request for assistance at TaxpayerAdvocate.IRS.gov.

Low Income Taxpayer Clinics

Independent clinics, often at law schools and nonprofits, that represent eligible taxpayers in disputes with the IRS, including audits, appeals and collection, for free or for a small fee. Find one through the IRS’s LITC page.

VITA and TCE

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) prepare returns for free for people who qualify, including many with low to moderate incomes, people with disabilities and older adults. Some sites can help with prior-year returns.

When these fit, and when they don’t

These programs are excellent if you qualify and can work at their pace. If you have several years to file, self-employment income to rebuild, or a collection deadline, a paid professional may move faster. See how to vet a tax relief company.

Common questions

Is the Taxpayer Advocate Service part of the IRS?

It’s an independent organization within the IRS. It helps taxpayers resolve problems and recommends changes to prevent them. Its help is free.

Who qualifies for a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic?

Clinics serve taxpayers whose income is below a set limit and who have a dispute with the IRS. Many also help people who speak English as a second language. Each clinic sets its own services.