Tax preparation: Get help for free

Tax preparation season is here, and there are plenty of places to look for free assistance.

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Tim Boyle / Getty Images / File
Tax preparation can be made easier for some taxpayers by using one of the free file programs listed by the IRS, like Turbo Tax.

Most taxpayers who take out refund anticipation loans (RALs) qualify for free tax preparation assistance from the Internal Revenue Service. However, 81 percent of those surveyed by the Treasury Inspector General for a 2008 report said they were unaware of these free services.

Several options are available for taxpayers seeking free tax assistance.

— A helpful website for free tax information is www.thebeehive.org .

AARP offers tax assistance at locations around the country. Search for those in your area at:http://tinyurl.com/4vozbfp .

— The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program also offers tax help at libraries, schools, neighborhood centers, and shopping malls. Information is at: http://tinyurl.com/65wpd .

— The IRS Free File program offers free federal preparation and electronic filing with participating private software companies. Information is at: http://tinyurl.com/35rnq .

— A state-by-state list of IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers is at: http://www.irs.gov/localcontacts/index.html . The centers will provide free tax preparation services for taxpayers with incomes under $49,000 a year.

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