LibGuides: Tax Law Research : Federal and Ohio: Where to get Free or Low Cost Help Filing your Taxes

Introduction

The nice things about the Ohio and RITA online software for filing your taxes are 1) the software is free and 2) the software does the calculations for you. As explained below, the IRS is barred from developing its own software for filing federal taxes, which would be a big help to consumers.

Stand up to the IRS by Erica Pless and Frederick Daily
Publication Date: 2017
Available from the Library's website at https://lawlibrary.franklincountyohio.gov/, under Self-Help Legal Resources.

Help in filing Taxes

Help in Ohio

Ohio Department of Taxation - I-File
Filing your taxes online in Ohio is free.
RITA - Regional Income Tax Agency
I-Filing is free
Tax Time
United Way of Central Ohio helps out with preparing tax returns

Free Tax Software

IRS announces Direct File as permanent free tax-filing option starting next year
NBC News 5/30/24
US IRS to launch free tax e-file pilot program in 2024
Reuters 5/16/23
IRS advances innovative Direct File project for 2024 tax season; free IRS-run pilot option projected to be available for eligible taxpayers in 13 states
IRS 10/17/23. Ohio is not one of the 13 states.
The IRS is testing a free method to directly file taxes. But not everyone is thrilled.
Ohio Capital Journal 4/9/24
States Prepare to Send Checks to Consumers Tricked Into Paying for TurboTax
ProPublica 5/4/23
The IRS could be on the verge of changing the way Americans file their taxes
The Hill 8/22/22
Intuit Will Pay Millions to Customers Tricked Into Paying for TurboTax State attorneys general just reached a $141 million settlement with the Silicon Valley juggernaut. Victims will receive up to $90 each.
ProPublica 5/4/22
FTC Sues to Stop “Deceptive” TurboTax “Free” Ad Campaign
ProPublica 3/29/22
The TurboTax Giveaway Is Dead And ProPublica killed it.
HuffPost 6/6/19
Bill to Limit IRS’ Ability to Offer Free Tax Filing Service Is Getting New Scrutiny
Propublica 4/26/19
Use IRS Free File to File Taxes for Free
But watch out. This program uses for profit tax filing companies. See the articles above.