How to Submit Your Taxes for Free
Filing taxes is an obligation for every citizen with an income. It’s not a matter of choice, but a statutory duty required by law. However, the process can sometimes seem gruesome, especially when it involves costs. Most tax preparers charge fees for their services. But what if you could submit your taxes for free? Yes, it’s possible and it is simpler than you can imagine. By learning a few simple tips, you can save those precious coins for something else. Regardless of whether you reside in the United States or anywhere else across the globe, there are available platforms and ways to submit your taxes for free.
Tax Filing in the United States
In the US, the IRS Free File program is an excellent way to freely submit your taxes. This program is a result of a partnership between the IRS and numerous tax preparation companies. It’s simply an online tool that gives taxpayers access to free tax software. However, your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) needs to be below $66,000 to benefit.
If your income is too high for IRS Free File, the IRS still offers Free File Fillable Forms. These are essentially electronic versions of IRS paper forms that guide you through your tax return. This service, however, is suitable for those who are used to doing their taxes by hand and need little assistance with calculations.
Online Tax Services
Another avenue for free tax filing is through online tax services. There are various online platforms that provide free tax filing services, some of which include TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct. While these services offer free tax filing for simple returns, they will typically charge for state tax returns or if your tax situation is somewhat complex.
Tax Filing in Australia
In Australia, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) provides a free online system called myTax. It’s part of the ATO’s online services, which can be accessed through a myGov account. This service is available to all taxpayers, regardless of income. It is secure, convenient, user-friendly and it pre-fills your tax return information.
Furthermore, the australia and united states tax treaty comes in handy for individuals or businesses operating in both territories. The treaty provides a framework for determining in what circumstances, and how much, taxation can be levied by each country. The tax treaty has been designed with the aim of avoiding double taxation and preventing fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
VITA Program
If your income is below $55,000, or you are over 60, or you have a disability or speak limited English, you can get free tax help from the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation and electronic filing to qualified individuals.
Conclusion
As we have seen, there are plenty of options for those seeking to submit their taxes for free. However, with the numerous tax laws and ever-changing regulations, it’s important to be cautious not to make mistakes during the filing process. Remember to always double-check your information and consult with a tax professional if necessary.