Income Taxes

California Department of Rehabilitation
Spotlight on Social Security
Income Taxes

Tax time can be complicated, especially for those on Social Security Disability. You may qualify for deductions, exclusions, and credits. Prepare for your 2024 tax return with helpful resources and tips to simplify the process.

Find a Tax Professional

Tax professionals have varying levels of skills, education and expertise. And, not all have the right to represent taxpayers before the IRS, such as during an audit.

Free Tax Help

• Free Tax Return Preparation: Free help preparing your tax return from Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA). To find a VITA location, use the IRS locator tool or call 800-906-9887.

  • TIP: For married filing jointly returns, both spouses must attend. What to Bring: ID, Social Security cards (for you, spouse, dependents), a copy of last year’s return, and other tax documents.

• MilTax: From the Department of Defense, offers free tax assistance to military service members. Get help with tax preparation services, use free filing software, and consult with professionals experienced with military tax issues.

• AARP Foundation Tax-Aide: Free tax assistance to anyone, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. You don't need to be an AARP member to use the service.

• Free Help To Resolve Tax Disputes (not tax return preparation): Find out if you are eligible to get free help resolving tax disputes with the IRS from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC).

Paid Tax Help

• Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers: Find a paid tax return preparer based on location, credentials, and other select qualifications.

• Choosing a Paid Tax Professional: This page provides tips to help you choose a paid tax professional that’s right for you.

• Authorized e-File Providers: Find an Authorized e-File Provider near you who may be able to help you e-file, as well as prepare, your tax return.

Prepare Your Own Return

Electronic filing is the easiest way to file a complete and accurate tax return. You can use Free File or commercial tax prep software and file your taxes electronically. You can pay electronically, too.

Free Resources

• Free File: Find out if you are eligible for free file software or if you can file your return using free fillable forms.

• Pay Electronically: Find options to pay your taxes electronically.

Commercial Software

• E-file Option: This page explains your options for e-filing, including commercial software.

Other Free IRS Tool and Resources for help with your tax return

• Help and Resource Center - Find online tools and resources for popular tax time topics

• Interactive Tax Assistant - Use this tool to find answers to tax questions geared to your individual situation.

• Forms and Publications - Get tax forms and instructions. You can also search for specific titles or product numbers. The IRS also offers forms and publications for taxpayers with visual impairments.

Tips and Strategies

• Create an online IRS account: If you want to see your Form 1040 from last year, or you’re missing a prior year Form W-2 or mortgage interest statement, you can find your documents using this free tax tool. You can view your account balance and payment history for each year. You can also create a payment plan to settle your federal income tax debt within minutes.

• Protect yourself from tax scams and fraud: As tax season approaches, many people start receiving phone calls, emails and texts from entities claiming to be the IRS. Be wary and understand that these are scams! Typically, the IRS will mail you a notice before using any other method of communication to notify you concerning issues with your tax return. The IRS won’t reach out via social media or text messaging.

• Don’t ignore the IRS: Taxpayers who don’t file a tax return and owe a tax bill, or who file but don’t pay their tax bill on time, risk severe penalties. The IRS can even seize assets if necessary. Respond quickly if the IRS has been sending you letters because it found an error on your return or claims you owe back taxes. Keep in mind the IRS does offer installment plans and other payment plans.

This February, using these tips and resources can make tax time feel much less stressful. If you ever feel stuck, remember there are plenty of people and programs to help!