Wandering through the maze that is tax season can be incredibly frustrating, and finding the best place to start can be the hardest part. As a US Veteran or Active Duty Service Member, you deserve and are eligible for many different free and discounted tax services. Keep reading to determine which one is the best for you, then check out our guide on the documents you’ll need to have with you when you file and benefits you may be eligible for.
Here’s our comprehensive list of reputable tax prep/filing services that offer free or discounted rates to Veterans and Military Personnel in 2020.
Government Sponsored Tax Assistance for Veterans
IRS Free File: If you earn 69,000 dollars or less a year, you are eligible for free filing software. If your yearly income is more than this, you are still eligible for easy fill forms.
Military OneSource: Funded by the DoD, their MilTax program includes free tax software, preparation help, and financial counseling. They also assist with military-specific tax questions (combat pay, education benefits, etc.)
IRS Vita Program: The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who make $56,000 or less, and also seeks to assist people aged 60+.
Commercial Tax Assistance
Turbo Tax: All enlisted active duty military and reservists can file their 2019 federal and state taxes for free with TurboTax (Military Edition).
TaxSlayer: Active duty military can file a federal return for $0. All tax situations and forms included. State filing currently costs $29.00.
FreeTaxUSA: Everyone, including active and former military, can file federal taxes for free. State filing currently costs $12.95.
Some companies, such as H&R Block & Liberty Tax Service, offer discounted rates when you file in person. This varies by state. Call around and see if your local tax prep and filing centers offer Veteran or Military Benefits.
We wish you the best of luck this tax season. Happy filing!
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