Tax Day is Wednesday, April 15, 2026. If you haven’t started your taxes yet, now is a good time to begin. Getting started soon can help you avoid last-minute stress—and you may qualify for free help to file your return. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Get Organized
Before you begin, gather all the forms and information you need to maximize your refund. Use the “My Free Taxes” Tax Preparation Checklist to help you stay organized.
Step 2: Explore Free Tax Preparation Resources Online
My Free Taxes – Free Online Assistance
MyFreeTaxes, provided by United Way in partnership with the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, offers free online tools to help you file your taxes. You can either prepare your return yourself or have it prepared for free by a professional.
IRS Free File – Help from the IRS
IRS Free File offers free guided tax preparation software to eligible taxpayers. It’s safe, easy to use, and completely free. Even if you don’t qualify for the guided software, you can use Free File Fillable Forms.
Step 3: Check Your Local Resources
Free Tax Prep Help – In-Person Assistance
The IRS’s VITA and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs provide free, in-person tax help to those who qualify. Use the link below to find a provider near you.
Your Local Library
Public libraries often provide tax preparation assistance. Contact your local library to see if this service is available in your community.
Dane County Resources
In Dane County, several organizations offer free tax prep help. Here are a few to explore:
Don’t Wait—Start Today!
With these free tax assistance resources, you can confidently meet the April 15th tax deadline. Don’t wait - start preparing today!
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