RiverBender: Free Income Tax Preparation AssistanceAvailable for Qualifying Taxpayers

IRS-certified volunteers assist taxpayers in filing accurate federal
and state tax returns before the April 15 deadline statewide.

CHICAGO – Several trusted Illinois programs offer free income tax
preparation for low-to-moderate income families and older adults who may
need assistance in filing their 2025 income taxes.

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

“Illinois taxpayers can find free, trusted tax help right in their communities,”
said Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris. “IRS-certified
volunteers are available across the state and are happy to help people file
their state and federal returns accurately and on time by the April 15
deadline.”

How taxpayer assistance is provided and when services are available varies
by region, based upon volunteer capacity.

“Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive,” said Illinois
Department on Aging Director Mary Killough. “Community-based free tax
preparation programs can help simplify the filing process and ensure older
adults get the refund they deserve.”

—-

The Ladder Up Tax Assistance Program (TAP) provides free basic tax return
preparation for families and individuals earning up to $40,000 annually.
Taxpayers must be full-year Illinois or Indiana residents and if a joint return
is filed, both spouses need to be present.