Navigating Free Tax Filing Systems

February 19th, 2024

A Guide to State-Sponsored Tax Filing Programs

Navigating the complexities of tax filing can be daunting for many taxpayers. Recognizing this challenge, several states have taken steps to reduce the burden on their residents by offering free tax filing systems and complimentary assistance services.

These programs are designed to make tax preparation more accessible and affordable, aiming to support taxpayers in maximizing their refunds while ensuring compliance with state tax laws. In the sections that follow, we will explore the states in BlueHub SUN's service area that have implemented these taxpayer-friendly services, detailing the eligibility criteria, benefits, and how residents can take advantage of these valuable resources.

Seek Advice from Professionals: You should not rely on BlueHub SUN for tax, legal, financial or accounting advice. While we will work with you to attempt to help you repurchase your home, we do not provide tax, legal, financial or accounting advice. Please consult with your own tax advisor, lawyer, financial advisor, accountant or other trusted professional on questions seeking tax, legal, financial or accounting advice. These questions may include, without limitation, questions related to the consequences and deductibility of mortgage interest, property taxes, forgiven debt, financial planning and loan documents.

Connecticut offers the "myconneCT" program, which is part of a partnership with the IRS Free File Alliance. This program provides free state tax filing services to eligible taxpayers, making it easier for lower-income individuals to file their taxes.

IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software.

The state of Connecticut offers free income tax assistance, please visit their website for more information.

Delaware has a portal for electronically filing taxes. Residents can also use the IRS Free File program if they meet the income criteria. This program allows qualified individuals to file their federal (and sometimes state) taxes for free using commercial software.

This year’s filing deadline for Delaware Personal Income Tax is Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

Nehemiah Gateway Community Development Corporation (NGCDC). provides free personal income tax filing assistance to qualifying Delaware taxpayers.

Illinois offers "MyTax Illinois," a free online system where individuals can file their state tax returns directly with the Illinois Department of Revenue. This service is designed to be user-friendly and provide quick processing of tax returns and refunds.

IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software.

IRS, American Association of Retired Persons' (AARP) Foundation Tax-Aide Program, and the Ladder Up Tax Assistance Program, provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals in select locations statewide.

Maryland offers "iFile," a free online tax service provided by the Comptroller of Maryland. This service allows residents to file their state tax returns electronically for free, aiming to simplify the filing process and provide quicker refunds.

IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software.

There are free tax preparation organizations available to help individuals in Maryland prepare their taxes. Income guidelines may apply.

Massachusetts provides "MassTaxConnect" as a free online filing tool available through the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. This tool allows taxpayers to file their state income tax returns electronically at no cost.

IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help through IRS-certified volunteers to people who generally make $64,000 or less, including persons with disabilities, the elderly and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. 

Michigan offers "Free e-File," which is a way for eligible taxpayers to file both their federal and state taxes online for free using participating software companies listed on the Michigan Department of Treasury's website. Several software companies offer FREE e-file services to qualified Michigan taxpayers. If you do not qualify to file for FREE, you may also e-file for a small fee.

Michigan 2-1-1 can connect you with a free tax preparation expert at no cost to you.

New Jersey offers two options for electronically filing state individual income tax returns: the Federal-State Modernized e-File (MeF) program and NJ Online Filing (NJ resident returns only). For more information, visit New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.

IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software.

IRS tax volunteers are available to assist many New Jersey residents with preparing their New Jersey Income Tax returns for free at preparation sites throughout the state.

Ohio offers OH|TAX eServices, a free, online tax filing service provided by the Ohio Department of Taxation for Ohio residents. This system allows individuals to file their state income tax return directly and securely.

 IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who generally make $60,000 or less, persons with disabilities and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns.

Pennsylvania offers the "PA e-File" program, which is a free electronic filing option for Pennsylvania income tax returns through the PA Department of Revenue's website. This service is available to eligible taxpayers based on income criteria.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) provides free tax filing for households with incomes of approximately $60,000 or less (depending on program).

As of 2023, Rhode Island only allows electronic tax filing. There are many ways for taxpayers to file electronically at the state level. The best way to do so is through the Division’s Taxpayer Portal.

Rhode Island taxpayers can use the IRS Free File program for their federal returns if they meet certain requirements.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is available for free tax preparation support to individuals who meet specific income requirements. This service is designed to help eligible taxpayers navigate the complexities of tax filing with the assistance of trained volunteers.

The Wisconsin Department of Revenue offers "WisTax," a free electronic filing system for Wisconsin residents. This system allows individuals to file their state tax returns online directly with the state, simplifying the process and potentially speeding up refunds.

IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software.

Wisconsin also offers free tax assistance programs.

 

Are you planning on making home improvements with your tax refund?

BlueHub SUN homeowners: Are you planning to make any home improvements that are over $2,500 (not inclusive of sweat equity)? Make sure to save your receipts! If you have a shared appreciation mortgage, SUN will deduct 75% of the cost of the documented home improvement from your shared appreciation mortgage payoff. Some improvements that could qualify include: replacing your roof, remodeling your bathroom or kitchen, replacing windows and painting your home. Contact us at 855.604.HOME (Toll-Free) or info@sunhomehelp.org with any questions.

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