Free Tax Filing Assistance in Boston

Do I Need to File a Tax Return
Every year the IRS issues a tool to check to see if you are required to file taxes. Visit irs.gov/help/ita/do-i-need-to-file-a-tax-return to learn more.

Even if you are not required to file a tax return, you may want to file one if you had income tax withheld from your paycheck. Potentially, you may have overpaid the treasury and could be due a refund from the government.

Ask Before You File
If you are dependent on others to help with expenses (parents, guardians, etc.), ask to find out if they are claiming you as a dependent before you file. Your family will have to decide which option is the best financially and may want to consult with an accountant or tax expert.

Look Out for Forms
Here are some of the forms you may receive as a student:

  • W2s – Income from work. This includes Work Study and other jobs where you receive a regular paycheck.
  • 1099-Miscs – Income from Contracted Services. This can include gigs or project-based work where you’re paid an agreed amount for services rendered and taxes are not withheld.
  • 1099-Q – Payments from a qualified tuition program (529/College Savings plans). You’ll receive this from your plan administrator for total withdrawals made during the year.
  • 1098-E*– Student loan interest payments. You will only receive this if you’ve made enough qualified payments on your student loan interest.
  • 1098-T* – Tuition statement includes information on qualified tuition and educational expenses paid and scholarships/grants received for education credits.* These forms are used for credits/deductions. Make sure you’ve spoken to your family about who will use them before filing.

Resources for Filing Assistance

The Boston Tax Help Coalition
Individuals earning $70,000 or less can go to a neighborhood tax site or online for assistance filing. To find a tax site near you https://www.boston.gov/departments/center-working-families/worker-empowerment/boston-tax-help-coalition/

Action for Boston Community Development
Individuals earning less than $67,000 can qualify for assistance from ABCD at 13 locations. For more information and to find a site near you visit: https://bostonabcd.org/service/tax-assistance/

Online Options
The IRS, Boston Tax Help Coalition and United Way offer Free Filing Online for Individuals who earn less than $66,000. Learn more at: