Helpful resources
File for free & find answers
Free, trusted ways to file your own return — plus answers to the questions we hear most.
Free self-filing tools
File your taxes online — free
Appointment scheduling for the upcoming tax season opens in late January — but you don't have to wait. These free, reputable programs let you prepare and file your own return. Choose the one that fits your situation.
CASH Campaign of Maryland
Free guided software if you made $89,000 or less, and it covers your Maryland return as well as your federal one. Start here.
File with CASH CampaignGetYourRefund
A free, IRS-certified virtual service from the non-profit Code for America. Get matched with volunteers or file yourself online.
Visit GetYourRefundIRS Free File
The IRS's official free filing program. It covers your federal return only, so you'd still need to file Maryland separately.
Visit IRS Free FileFree tax-prep sites near you
Find other free in-person tax-prep sites and financial resources across Baltimore through our partner, the CASH Campaign of Maryland.
Find Baltimore locationsLinks open external sites we trust but don't operate. Always confirm you're on an official .gov or program website before entering personal information.
Beyond tax prep
More helpful resources
Programs and services our clients often find useful — from tax credits and legal help to financial coaching. These links open external sites we trust but don't operate.
Other free tax-prep options
Not sure VITA is the right fit? Find other IRS-sponsored free tax-prep sites near you.
Create an ID.me account
Access the tax records and account information the IRS has on file for you.
Self-employment & gig income
MyFreeTaxes guidance for gig workers, home-based child care, and small businesses.
Renter & homeowner tax credits
Qualifying Maryland renters and homeowners may be eligible — don't miss out, apply now.
Student loan debt relief credit
Maryland offers a tax credit to help residents pay down their student loan debt.
Maryland college savings match
Contribute to a Maryland 529 plan and you may qualify for a matching grant for college.
Free tax-related legal help
The Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service provides free legal help for Marylanders in need.
Benefits screening & coaching
CASH Campaign checks your eligibility for 20+ programs and offers free financial coaching.
Marketplace insurance explained
Questions about Marketplace insurance eligibility and tax impacts, answered clearly.
Register to vote in Maryland
Step-by-step voter registration and how to update your information.
FAQ
Common questions
Quick answers about eligibility, appointments, and filing.
It's completely free. VITA is an IRS-sponsored program, and our volunteers never charge for tax preparation.
Individuals and families with household income under the IRS limit. The IRS updates this limit each year and most recently was $69,000 — see the current number on IRS.gov. You'll need a Social Security card for everyone on the return and an appointment. Some situations are out of scope — see the full eligibility details.
International students and scholars on F, J, M, or Q visas aren't eligible through UMBC VITA — nonresident returns need a certification our volunteers don't hold. Our partner NRVTAP prepares these returns for free.
A photo ID, Social Security cards for everyone on the return, all your income forms (W-2s and 1099s), and your bank details for direct deposit. See the full what to bring checklist.
No experience needed — we train you and support you through IRS certification. Head to the Volunteer page or email VITA@umbc.edu to get started.
Still have questions?
We're happy to help you figure out your options — just reach out.