How to File
You have many options for filing your taxes:
Go to a Free Tax Site
Philadelphia families earning less than $50,000 and individuals earning less than $20,000 per year are eligible for our free services. Find a site near you.
- Philadelphia Weed and Seed Project: 3 free tax sites in West Philadelphia. For more information and to make an appointment call 215-477-7747
Save Time, File Online
Check out this free, easy and secure online self-filing program. - Benefits Bank: This online program takes about 1 hour and will not only prepare your taxes, but can also tell you what other public benefits you are eligible for.
- United Way Free Online Filing
Do it yourself
Grab your pencil and tax forms and do it yourself. Paper tax forms are available at all post offices, libraries and other government facilities. This online IRS guide walks you through the form and answers all of your tax questions.
How to choose a paid tax preparer
Taxes can be complicated. If you are not eligible for our free services, you should expect to spend between $100 and $150 on average. But not all paid tax preparers are equal. Here a few tips from the IRS on choosing someone who will offer the best service for your tax preparation needs:
- Ask about service fees. Avoid preparers who claim they can get you larger refunds than other preparers, or those who guarantee a refund or base fees on a percentage of the amount of the refund.
- Plan Ahead. Choose a preparer you will be able to contact after the return is filed and one who will be responsive to your needs.
- Get References. Ask questions and get references from clients who have used the tax professional before. Were they satisfied with the service received?
- Research. Check to see if the preparer has any questionable history with the Better Business Bureau, the state's board of accountancy for CPA's (Certified Public Accountants), or the state's bar association for attorneys. Find out if the preparer belongs to a professional organization that requires its members to pursue continuing education and also holds them accountable to a code of ethics.
- Is the preparer qualified to meet your needs? Is he or she an Enrolled Agent, Certified Public Accountant, or Attorney? If so, the preparer can represent taxpayers before the IRS on all matters, including audits, collections, and appeals.
Remember, it's your signature on the bottom of the form and your money on the line when you file a return with the IRS. To report suspected tax fraud or abuse, tax preparers can call the IRS at 1-800-829-0433.
