Illinois Expands Free Filing Workshops for 2025 Season

The Illinois Department of Revenue has expanded its free filing workshops to help taxpayers prepare and submit their tax returns at no cost through April 15, 2025. The statewide effort connects residents with trained IRS-certified volunteers who provide free tax help at community centers, universities, and libraries.

Free Filing Workshops Provide Tax Counseling and Income Tax Assistance

The free filing workshops operate under two key programs: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). These programs offer free tax assistance for individuals earning $67,000 or less, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency.

IRS-certified volunteers prepare both federal and state tax returns, ensuring they are filed electronically to speed refunds and reduce errors. These programs offer free tax services that meet strict quality review standards under federal tax law and the Illinois Department’s oversight.

Director David Harris said the goal is to help taxpayers “file accurate and timely tax returns while saving money on professional preparation costs.” The department also reminds taxpayers to bring all necessary documents, including a photo ID, Social Security cards, W-2s, 1099s, and bank information for direct deposit.

How Income Tax Assistance VITA Programs Operate

VITA and TCE workshops assist taxpayers with identity verification letters, questions about estimated payment penalties, and outstanding eligible tax liabilities. Volunteers also help residents understand recent updates under Illinois’ property tax system, motor fuel tax law, and Illinois Retailers’ Occupation Tax.

Each return preparation session is reviewed by an IRS-certified volunteer before submission. All documents are securely submitted electronically to the Internal Revenue Service and state systems. Those managing Illinois account issues or using MyTax Illinois accounts can also receive help responding electronically to notices or final notices from the treasury agencies.

Local governments, labor unions, and associations representing residential property owners often collaborate to host sessions in Cook County and other taxing jurisdictions. This ensures that programs offer free tax help to both urban and rural taxpayers, supporting state revenue goals.

Free Tax Return Preparation and Featured Programs

Beyond general free tax return preparation, featured programs such as AARP’s Tax-Aide focus on counseling for older adults and individuals with moderate incomes. Universities and civic organizations coordinate continuing education for tax preparers to ensure compliance with evolving tax laws and corresponding adjustments in federal filing standards.

These initiatives also assist commercial property owners, adult-use cannabis businesses, and municipalities throughout Illinois with tax return preparation guidance related to gross receipts and local government taxes. The Illinois Department’s efforts reinforce public act requirements and ensure revenue committed to state programs is appropriately recorded.

The department continues to warn taxpayers about fraudulent messages requesting confidential taxpayer information. Official notices will include webpage response options for individuals who need to verify their identity or provide updated information. Anyone receiving suspicious communications should confirm their legitimacy through MyTax Illinois or official treasury agencies.

Using IRS Free File and Other Free Help Options

Taxpayers who prefer to file independently can use IRS Free File to complete their federal tax return online at no cost. This option is available to qualifying taxpayers with moderate incomes and supports a variety of credits, supporting schedules, and deductions.

The Illinois Department reminds taxpayers that free help and electronic tools can simplify the tax filing process, reduce costs, and help avoid errors. Submitting returns electronically also speeds up refunds and ensures that eligible penalties or interest are correctly calculated and, when applicable, interest is forgiven.

Those with specific questions about Illinois account issues, supplier’s license renewals, or motor fuel filings can contact the department directly. The agency will continue to accept comments on public guidance and provide taxpayer information updates through its news releases.

Sources

• Illinois Department of Revenue – Free Tax Preparation Resources
  
  
• IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Programs

By William Mc Lee, Editor-in-Chief & Tax Expert—Get Tax Relief Now