Tax season can be stressful, but in Los Angeles, there are several trusted programs that offer free tax preparation services, both in person and online. Whether you qualify based on income, need help in another language, or simply want guidance from a trained professional, here are the best resources available across the city. Just make sure to take advantage of them before the April 15 filing deadline!
Free in-person tax filling help
If you prefer face-to-face help, these local programs provide free, personalized support from certified volunteers and professionals.
VITA and TCE Programs
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs are sponsored by the IRS and offer free tax help to:
- Individuals earning $67,000 or less
- People with disabilities
- Taxpayers who have limited English proficiency
To find a VITA/TCE site near you, use the IRS locator tool or call 800-906-9887.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program provides free tax help for everyone, with a focus on individuals 50 and older and those with low to moderate income. Trained volunteers can assist with common tax questions, including those related to retirement and pensions.
To make an appointment or find a location, visit the AARP Tax-Aide site or call 888-227-7669.
Los Angeles Public Library
Several branches of the Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) offer free tax help through partnerships with VITA and AARP. Services are available at select locations and typically require an appointment. Visit the Library’s site to find participating branches, hours, and details about how to schedule a session.
University-Run VITA Programs
Local universities also run free tax clinics, typically staffed by trained students and faculty. Each site operates independently, so be sure to check appointment requirements and language options.
- UCLA
- Schedule online
- Languages: English, Chinese, Spanish
- CSU Long Beach (CSULB)
- Schedule online
- Languages: English, Spanish
- CSU Northridge (CSUN)
- Schedule online
- Languages: English, Spanish; email vita@csun.edu for other language requests
- Also offers ITIN applications and renewals
- CSU Los Angeles (CSULA)
- Schedule online
- Languages: Spanish, Armenian, Farsi, Russian, Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese
Free online tax filing help
Prefer to file your taxes from home? These online tools allow you to do it yourself, completely free of charge.
IRS Free File
IRS Free File offers guided tax preparation software at no cost for individuals who meet income requirements. It’s available directly through the IRS website and includes both brand-name software and fillable forms. Learn more at irs.gov.
MyFreeTaxes
Provided by United Way, MyFreeTaxes is a user-friendly online service for individuals and households earning $67,000 or less. You can file both federal and California state returns for free. Start here.
Appointments at many of these programs fill up quickly, especially as the April deadline approaches. Whether you want in-person assistance or prefer to file online, don’t wait—take advantage of these free resources and get your taxes done with confidence.