Free Tax Filing Options and Information for New Jersey Residents

Below are several free tax filing resources available for the 2024 tax season to NJ residents with low or moderate income. Please note that these resources are designed for households with straightforward income situations. For a more complex income, we strongly recommend consulting a professional accountant to help with filing the returns.

Free Online Tax Filing Options for 2024:

• IRS Direct File - Available for individuals with wages under $125,000 (or married couples with household wages under $250,000) who earned all their income within New Jersey. This tool is designed for simple tax situations and has limitations on the types of income it supports. To review eligibility requirements and details and file tax returns with Direct File, visit: directfile.irs.gov

• IRS Free File: Guided Tax Software – Available for individuals with Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less. Choose from trusted IRS partner software companies that guide you through the filing process with simple questions. Some partners offer free state tax returns. To find a partner that matches your needs, visit: apps.irs.gov/app/freeFile

• IRS Free File: Fillable Forms - Available to taxpayers of all income levels, this option provides electronic versions of paper forms, allowing users to enter their information manually. This tool does not include state tax returns and requires taxpayers to follow form instructions carefully. To file your taxes with free fillable forms, visit: www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms

Free Volunteer Assistance for 2024 Tax Season:

For those with very simple income situations who need additional help filing their taxes, free in-person and virtual tax preparation assistance is available through IRS-certified volunteers.

• United Way of Northern NJ - vita.unitedwaynnj.org Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is for households earning $84,000 or less and is not available for businesses or landlords.

• AARP Foundation Tax-Aide - aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp-taxaide For those over 50 years old and with low to moderate income. AARP membership is not necessary to use this service.

Additional Tax Resources:

In addition to free tax preparation services, there are several programs that can help reduce tax burdens and provide financial relief.

• Earned Income Credit (EITC) – For those who qualify, the EITC can reduce the amount of taxes owed and provide a refund. To claim this credit, a tax return must be filed, even if income is below the minimum filing requirement.

• NJ Easy Enrollment Health Insurance Program - New Jersey residents without health insurance can indicate their interest in obtaining coverage when filing their state tax return by completing the NJ-EZ Enroll Form. This will trigger a special 60-day enrollment period—even outside of Open Enrollment—allowing them to sign up for coverage through Get Covered New Jersey and see if they qualify for financial assistance. The LRRC health insurance navigators can assist with the application and enrollment process.