Free tax preparation resources for military

  • Published
  • By Capt. Daad Dabbagh
  • 377th Judge Advocate
Kirtland Air Force Base, NM --  The Kirtland Air Force Base Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Center is now open at the Consolidated Support Center.

We are accepting appointments for military personnel E-6 and below, O-3 and below and retirees with an income of less than $60,000.

Call 853-1700 to make an appointment.

For others not eligible for Kirtland's tax center, there are several options for military and retired personnel to file their 2010 taxes for free.

Military OneSource Tax Program -- Provides free access to the H&R Block at Home® electronic tax-filing product. This customized product allows for free federal filing and free state filing (up to three states).

In addition, H&R Block provides free tax consultations at 800-730-3802. This electronic filing access is free to active-duty, National Guard and Reserve service members and their families.

TaxSlayer.com -- Offers free e-file of federal and state returns for active-duty military for the 2010 tax year. For tax year 2010, "active-duty" personnel are those whose W-2 contain one of 12 employer identification numbers.

Reserve and National Guard personnel who are classified as permanent "active duty" by DoD will have a W-2 containing one of the EINs.

Turbo Tax Freedom Edition -- Offers free online federal tax preparation and e-filing for active duty, Reservists and National Guard personnel. To qualify, you must have a 2010 W-2 form from the military and have earned an adjusted gross income of $58,000 or less.

IRS.gov -- IRS Free File is available to taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $58,000 or less in 2010.

American Association of Retired Persons Tax-Aide -- Local AARP centers offer free tax filing services for federal and state returns. There are no income or military status restrictions. They accept appointments and walk-ins based on availability.

The above references to and descriptions of tax filing resources are not intended as an endorsement of any particular product or service.