Getting Free Help

• There are a number of free services available for those who qualify to receive free assistance on filing taxes. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program is composed of trained and certified volunteers who assist individuals on their taxes. In 2010, the program is free for those who fall in the low to moderate income tax bracket, earning less than $49,000 per year. Members of the military and senior citizens can also receive free tax help through government programs. In 2010, taxpayers who have a gross adjusted income of less than $57,000 can take advantage of tax preparation software offered by the IRS. The tax preparation software asks simple question, which the taxpayer answers. The program then does the math and checks for accuracy.
  
  

Types of Assistance

• Accountants seeking additional work may take on the preparing of tax forms for individuals. In addition a number of tax preparation companies will help you file your taxes. These tax prepares not only offer assistance in the office, but have programs you can download to prepare your taxes online. A preparer will review it before filing it electronically.
  
  

Benefits

• Using an accountant to help you prepare your tax forms has many benefits. For instance, accountants are trained to assess your tax situation, help you save money on your taxes now, and set you up in a way that will help reduce tax costs in the future. Trained professionals are able to spot errors right away, take full advantage of any deductions, and ensure that your taxes are filed expediently. Filing yourself using tax software is convenient and easy if your taxes aren't complicated
  
  

Suggestions

• A survey by the National Society of Accountant found the average tax preparation fee for Form 1040 was about $229 in 2009. If you use tax software, check to see if you qualify to use the free version. If not, you can pay up to $99.95 to use them. Make sure you check the credentials of your tax preparer or make sure the software provider offers a guarantee if the product doesn't provide an accurate return.
  
  

Assist Others

• If you are interested in becoming a tax form preparer, you can find training programs that can prepare you to enter this line of work. Many of the schools don't require that you have previous experience in tax work. Classes prepare you to help those who need assistance filling out their tax forms. National Tax Training School offers training that prepares students to pass the future IRS Competency Exam. Many tax preparation services also offer schools that prepare people to become a tax preparer.