Tax season is here. What resources are available for low-income Washingtonians?

Tax season has officially started, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

Taxpayers have until Wednesday, April 15, to file their state and federal returns for the 2025 tax year, the IRS said in a Jan. 8 news release.

Getting your taxes done can be stressful.

The Washington State Department of Revenue recommends a number of tax preparation resources to help people in need, including low-income and older Washingtonians.

Here’s an overview of which tax preparation resources are available and who can use them.

Can the IRS help me prepare my tax return?

The IRS has two programs offering free basic tax preparation for certain groups.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs assist people who “generally” make less than $64,000 a year, as well as those with disabilities and limited English-speakers prepare their tax returns.

You can use this online locator tool to find options near you, or call 800-906-9887.

What free filing resources are available?

The AARP Foundation offers free tax aide virtually or in person.

The program puts a “special focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income,” the AARP said.

You can find Tax-Aide volunteers near you using this online locator tool or by calling 888-227-7669.

The Washington State Department of Revenue also recommends GetYourRefund.org, which helps “low-income households across America receive high-quality tax services” from home.

The free service was created by Code for America in partnership with the IRS, with support from the White House and the U.S. Department of Treasury, according to the state revenue department.

Visit the site to determine if you are eligible for chat, email or hands-on support.

Which Washington groups offer tax preparation assistance?

The United Ways of the Pacific Northwest has a free tax preparation program for Washington state residents with low and moderate incomes.

The program “uplifts Washington families by connecting them to free tax filing services to access tax credits,” the state Department of Revenue said.

Go to MyFreeTaxesWA.org to see if you are eligible.

Additionally, the state has a free confidential community service for connecting Washingtonians to necessary services.

“2-1-1 is always ready to assist you in finding the help you need,” the state revenue department said.

To get connected to local services of all kinds, call 2-1-1 or visit WA211.org.