Sen. Sherman announces availability of IRS free file program for online tax assistance, e-filing

    AUGUSTA — As this year’s tax filing deadline approaches, Sen. Roger Sherman (R-Houlton) is reminding constituents of free tax preparation services available through the IRS Free File program. Every taxpayer with a 2011 Adjusted Gross Income of $57,000 or less may visit www.IRS.gov/freefile to prepare, complete and e-file their federal tax returns at no cost.
    Free File includes brand-name software as well as Fillable Forms, which are online versions of paper forms. Some participating software companies also support state tax returns.
    Since the beginning of the program in 2003, approximately 70 percent of taxpayers have been eligible for free access to leading commercial tax preparation software. This service is made possible through a partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a coalition of industry-leading tax software companies.
    To get started in using this program, taxpayers should visit the IRS Free File website (www.irs.gov/freefile).  Users will find a list of Free File Alliance member companies and may either choose the one that fits their needs or utilize the “help me find a company” tool. After selecting a tax software company, users will be transferred to the company’s website to prepare, complete and electronically file their federal income tax returns.
    Additionally, taxpayers have the option to use direct deposit for owed refunds. The status of one’s tax refund may also be tracked online within 72 hours after e-filing a return. Prior refunds have been available as quickly as 10 days.
    The Free File Alliance, a coalition of 14 industry-leading tax software companies, has partnered with the IRS for almost a decade to help low- and middle-income Americans prepare, complete and e-file their federal tax returns online.
    For more information about the Free File Alliance, please visit www.freefilealliance.org