By late February, tax forms are arriving in mailboxes and inboxes, and for many households, filing a return brings stress. Paid preparation can be expensive, online software can be confusing, and scammers take advantage of the season. Yet filing matters: many lower- and moderate-income households may qualify for refunds and tax credits that only come if they file.
Neighbors can help each other get organized, find free and trustworthy help, and avoid common scams. This guide explains how. It is general information, not tax advice; for specific questions, talk to a qualified tax professional or official resources.
Free tax help exists
Many people do not realize that free, reputable tax preparation is available. The Internal Revenue Service sponsors two well-known programs staffed by trained, certified volunteers:
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) generally offers free basic tax return preparation to people who meet income guidelines, people with disabilities and people with limited English.
- Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) focuses on helping older taxpayers, particularly with questions about pensions and retirement-related issues.
Sites are often hosted by libraries, community centers, community action agencies, colleges and other local organizations. Eligibility rules, hours and services vary by site and year, so check the IRS website or call ahead. In many states, including Massachusetts, dialing 2-1-1 can also help people find local free tax sites.
The IRS also offers free filing options online for some taxpayers. Check the official IRS website for current details, and be cautious of look-alike sites.
How to help a neighbor get organized
Showing up prepared makes the appointment faster and more accurate. Offer to help a neighbor gather documents. Free tax sites typically publish a checklist; common items include:
- Photo identification for the filer and, if filing jointly, the spouse.
- Social Security cards or ITIN letters for everyone listed on the return.
- Income documents, such as W-2s from employers and 1099 forms for other income.
- Records of other income or benefits that the site requests.
- Last year’s tax return, if available.
- Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of any refund.
- Childcare provider information, if claiming childcare expenses.
- Health insurance forms, if applicable.
A simple folder or large envelope labeled “Taxes” and kept in one place helps prevent lost forms.
Practical ways to support neighbors
- Share information about free tax sites in your building, faith community or neighborhood group.
- Offer rides to appointments for neighbors without cars, especially older adults.
- Help with scheduling by sitting with someone while they call or book online.
- Offer childcare during a parent’s appointment.
- Translate or find interpretation, if you are bilingual and the neighbor wants help.
- Respect privacy. Income and family details are personal. Help with logistics, not with reading or keeping their documents unless asked.
Watch out for tax scams
Tax season is prime time for scams. Share these warning signs:
- The IRS generally first contacts people by mail, not by surprise phone calls, texts or social media messages demanding payment.
- Threats of immediate arrest or deportation are a red flag.
- Demands for payment by gift card, wire transfer or cryptocurrency are a classic scam tactic.
- Emails or texts with links asking for personal or bank information should not be clicked.
- Preparers who promise unusually large refunds, charge fees based on the size of the refund, ask you to sign a blank return or will not sign the return themselves are warning signs.
If something feels off, hang up or do not reply, and check directly with the IRS using contact information from its official website.
Choosing a paid preparer wisely
If a neighbor’s situation is complex or they prefer a paid preparer, encourage them to:
- Ask about credentials and experience.
- Get fees in writing up front.
- Make sure the preparer signs the return and provides a copy.
- Ensure any refund goes directly to the taxpayer’s own account.
- Avoid preparers who ask them to lie or skip income.
Volunteer as a tax preparer
If you are comfortable with numbers and enjoy helping people, consider volunteering with a free tax program next season. VITA and TCE volunteers complete IRS training and certification, and many sites also need greeters, interpreters and scheduling help that do not require tax training. Recruitment and training for these programs usually happen in the fall and early winter, so contact a local site well before tax season to ask how to get involved.
Beyond tax season: financial wellness
Tax time is a good opening for other conversations about money. Libraries, credit unions and community organizations often host free workshops on budgeting, credit and saving. Sharing those resources, without judgment, is another way neighbors support each other.
Keep copies safe
After filing, remind neighbors to keep a copy of their return and supporting documents in a safe place. Shred papers with personal information that are no longer needed rather than tossing them in the recycling bin.
Tax season checklist for helpers
- Find two or three free tax sites near you
- Print their document checklists
- Share scam warning signs in your building or group
- Offer rides, childcare or scheduling help
- Note the filing deadline, usually in mid-April
- Ask local sites how to volunteer next year
Quick check: Which of these is a common sign of a tax scam?
- A letter in the mail from the IRS
- A phone call demanding immediate payment by gift card or the caller will have you arrested
- A free tax site asking you to bring your W-2
Show answer
B. Threats and demands for gift card payment are classic scam tactics; the IRS does not operate that way.
