Tax Season Help at the Library

Tax season is here, and we understand there is a lot to navigate, which can cause frustration or confusion. As your community connector, we want to help make the process easier by providing free resources and programs.  

Start Filing 

Filing Taxes on Your Own

• Taxpayers from all income brackets can file their taxes for free with the IRS if they fill out the paperwork themselves using IRS Free File Fillable Forms.
• For people making less than $84,000, the IRS has partnered with Free File Alliance so those eligible can use free tax preparation software to file their own taxes.
• FreeTaxUSA is a private company that allows everyone to file their federal tax return for free, but they charge for filing state tax returns. 

Organizations Helping With Filing Taxes  

• MilTax is available for members of the military community that allows eligible people to file their taxes for free. There are eligibility requirements.
• AARP offers tax assistance and preparation support to anyone free of charge but focuses on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. The location search, which includes the Arbutus Branch, will have information about how to schedule appointments.

Filing Through CASH

• For people making less than $89,000, CASH Campaign of Maryland offers Facilitated Self-Assistance for people to file their own taxes for free.
• CASH is also hosting in-person tax filing assistance for people making less than $69,000 at our Towson and Randallstown branches. Register for an appointment or by calling 410-234-8008.

Finding a Licensed Tax Preparer

• Maryland Department of Labor has a database of licensed tax professionals. The public can use this information to confirm that the professional you may choose has the proper credentials and are eligible to file taxes on behalf of others.
• IRS Guide to Choosing a Tax Preparer offers tips for selecting a trustworthy and qualified preparer.

We’re Here to Help  

1. If you would like further guidance, we have a few programs happening in March that can provide tips and tricks for easy filing.
   1. File Your Own Taxes—Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m. at our North Point Branch
   2. Taxes for the Self-Employed—Thursday, March 12, 7 p.m., held virtually  
   3. Claim What’s Yours at Tax Time—Tuesday, March 24, 7 p.m., held virtually
2. LinkedIn Learning offers several courses that cover tax laws, filing processes and how to navigate software like TurboTax.
3. If you need a computer or internet to file your taxes, all 19 branches have public computers that you can use as well as guest WiFi. Our Library of Things also has Chromebooks available to borrow. It is important to note not to save any personal information on computers.  
4. Find a book below that can help answer your questions, then place a hold.

As a trusted institution, we're committed to supporting our community with free information, providing trusted resources and offering welcoming spaces to ask questions as you navigate tax season.  

 The Stress of Taxes 

Filing taxes can be a stressful experience, and many people in Maryland have experienced economic instability in the past year. Seeking support during difficult times can look like working with a professional who is trained in navigating complex financial situations. It can also look like reaching out to a loved one or professional when they are feeling overwhelmed or in crisis. If you need immediate support, call/text the national mental health hotline 988 for caring and compassionate support. 988 also has an online chat feature.