Are free tax preparation services as good as paid preparers?
In many ways, they’re even better. Just because a service is free doesn’t mean it’s of lower quality. Unlike some paid preparers who charge extra for claiming the EITC, e-filing, or additional forms, the free tax prep services featured on MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org offer these services at no cost—guaranteed. With programs like VITA, you’re working with an IRS-certified preparer. No gimmicks, no games—just reliable, high-quality tax preparation for free!
How do I schedule my free tax preparation appointment?
It depends on the program. Some sites are first-come, first-served, while others are appointment-only. Find your site first and then see how they handle appointment intake. Just call the number 2-1-1 (or 844-875-9211) or text your zip code to 898211 to get connected with a location near you.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
- Original photo identification for you and your spouse (if married filing jointly)
- Social Security cards for you, your spouse, and dependents
- Note: If you need to request a replacement card or update your Social Security record, visit https://www.ssa.gov/number-card to find the best way to do this.
- An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) assignment letter may be substituted for you, your spouse, and your dependents if you do not have a Social Security number
- Proof of foreign status, if applying for an ITIN
- Birth dates for you, your spouse, and dependents on the tax return
- Wage and earning statements (Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-MISC) from all employers
- Social Security Benefit Statements (SSA-1099), if applicable
- Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)
- A copy of last year’s federal and state returns, if available
- Proof of bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit, such as a blank check
- Total paid for daycare provider and the daycare provider’s tax identifying number, such as their SSN or business EIN
- Forms 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement
- Copies of income transcripts from IRS and state, if applicable
- To file taxes electronically on a married-filing-joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms
Where can I go to check on the status of my state or federal tax refunds?
You can access information on your State and Federal returns status using the following links:
Federal – Where’s My Refund?
To access your federal tax information, you will need to know the following items: social security number or ITIN, filing status, and exact refund amount. This information can be found on your Federal tax return.
State – eServices Individual Income Tax
To access your state tax information, you will need to know the following items: primary filer’s social security number, primary filer’s last name, tax year, adjusted gross income or total household resources, and filing status. This information can be found on your state tax return.
How do I avoid scams?
Be cautious of any communication—whether mail, email, phone calls, text messages, social media, or on websites—that asks for your Social Security number, date of birth, or that of any family member. Scammers may pose as the IRS claiming they need your information to provide important updates or help you claim stimulus or tax credits. In reality, their goal is to steal your payments by filing fraudulent returns in your name and redirecting the money to their own account. Always verify the source before sharing any personal details.