Quarterly Taxes Simplified: A Calendar for the Self-Employed

Key Takeaways

1. Importance of Estimated Payments: Understand the role of quarterly taxes, also known as estimated tax payments, in the U.S. “pay-as-you-go” tax system. These payments help self-employed individuals stay compliant with tax laws by spreading their tax liability throughout the year.
2. Staying on Schedule: Emphasize the necessity of adhering to the quarterly tax payment schedule (April 15, June 15, September 15, January 15) to avoid penalties and maintain financial stability. Setting reminders and planning ahead can prevent last-minute rushes and ensure payments are made on time.
3. Calculating Payments Accurately: Learn to estimate quarterly payments accurately by considering expected annual income, allowable deductions, and applicable tax rates. Utilize tools like IRS Form 1040-ES for guidance on dividing your tax liability into manageable quarterly payments.
4. Keeping Organized Records: Highlight the importance of diligent record-keeping for financial organization and tax preparation. Maintaining accurate records of income, expenses, and tax payments simplifies estimating taxes and preparing for annual tax filings or potential audits.
5. Adapting to Financial Changes: Adjust quarterly tax payments in response to significant changes in income or expenses throughout the year. Regularly reviewing financial circumstances allows for timely adjustments to payments, helping to avoid underpayment or overpayment of taxes.

Welcome to the Essential Guide to Managing Quarterly Taxes for the Self-Employed

Navigating the world of taxes can often seem daunting, especially when you’re self-employed and responsible for managing your own tax payments. Unlike traditional employees, whose taxes are deducted by their employers, self-employed individuals must proactively estimate and pay their taxes quarterly. This process, known as making estimated tax payments, is crucial for compliance with the IRS and for avoiding potential penalties.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the nuances of quarterly taxes, offering clear explanations and actionable advice to simplify what many find to be a complex and confusing topic. Whether you’re a freelancer, consultant, or small business owner, understanding how to accurately calculate, schedule, and make these payments is essential for maintaining your financial stability and peace of mind.

Join us as we explore the importance of quarterly taxes, provide a step-by-step approach to estimating your payments, and share tips on staying organized and compliant throughout the financial year. Let’s demystify the process and give you the tools you need to manage your taxes with confidence.

Understanding Quarterly Taxes: The Basics

When transitioning from traditional employment to self-employment, one of the most significant adjustments involves managing taxes. Unlike traditional employees, whose taxes are automatically deducted from each paycheck, self-employed individuals are responsible for setting aside and paying their own taxes to the IRS, a process that includes making quarterly estimated tax payments.

What Are Quarterly Taxes?

Quarterly taxes, also known as estimated tax payments, are the method through which the self-employed pay their income tax and self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare taxes) throughout the year. These payments are made four times a year and are intended to cover the taxes owed on income not subject to withholding taxes.

Why Quarterly Taxes?

The U.S. tax system operates on a “pay-as-you-go” basis, meaning taxes must be paid as you earn or receive income during the year. For self-employed individuals, quarterly tax payments ensure compliance with this system, helping to avoid underpayment penalties and large tax bills at the end of the fiscal year.

IRS Requirements

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires anyone who expects to owe at least $1,000 in taxes after subtracting withholding and refundable credits to make estimated tax payments. For corporations, this threshold is $500. The requirement underscores the importance of accurately estimating your income and making adequate payments throughout the year.

Understanding these basics is the foundation for effectively managing your tax obligations as a self-employed individual. By recognizing the need for, and the mechanics of, quarterly taxes, you can better navigate the financial responsibilities that come with self-employment, ensuring compliance with tax laws and maintaining financial stability throughout the year.

Table 1: Quarterly Tax Payment Schedule

The Significance of Staying on Schedule

Adhering to the quarterly tax payment schedule is crucial for self-employed individuals, not only to remain compliant with IRS regulations but also to ensure financial stability and peace of mind. Understanding the significance of timely payments can transform what often feels like a daunting obligation into a manageable aspect of your financial routine.

Avoiding Penalties and Interest

One of the most immediate consequences of missing a quarterly tax deadline is the potential for penalties and interest charged by the IRS. These can accumulate quickly and add an unnecessary financial burden. Timely payments ensure that you’re not caught off guard by additional costs that could have been avoided, keeping your financial plan on track.

Financial Organization and Planning

Staying on schedule with your quarterly taxes also plays a significant role in your overall financial organization. It encourages regular review of your income and expenses, which is essential for effective financial planning. This habit of financial vigilance can lead to better business decisions and a clearer understanding of your financial health.

Psychological Benefits

There’s also a psychological advantage to keeping up with your quarterly tax payments. Procrastination or neglect can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of being overwhelmed, especially as deadlines approach. On the other hand, a disciplined approach to tax payments can foster a sense of control and accomplishment, contributing to a more positive outlook on your business and personal finances.

Creating a Payment Schedule

To ensure that you stay on schedule:

• Set reminders for a week before each deadline: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year.
• Consider setting aside a fixed percentage of your income regularly in a separate savings account designated for taxes.
• Regularly review your earnings and adjust your savings percentage if necessary to ensure you have enough to cover your tax obligations.

By recognizing the importance of staying on schedule with quarterly tax payments, self-employed individuals can avoid unnecessary penalties, enhance their financial management skills, and enjoy greater peace of mind. It’s not just about meeting obligations but also about fostering a healthy financial lifestyle that supports your business’s growth and personal well-being.

Estimating Your Quarterly Tax Payments

For many self-employed individuals, one of the most challenging aspects of managing taxes is estimating how much to pay each quarter. This process involves a careful evaluation of your expected annual income, tax deductions, and credits to determine your tax liability. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process:

Step 1: Estimate Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)

Your AGI includes all your income sources for the year, such as earnings from your business, interest, dividends, and any other income. From this, you’ll subtract deductions and credits to find your taxable income. It’s essential to be as accurate as possible, considering any potential fluctuations in your business income throughout the year.

Step 2: Calculate Self-Employment Tax

Self-employment tax covers Social Security and Medicare taxes. For 2023, the self-employment tax rate is 15.3%, which includes 12.4% for Social Security on the first $147,000 of net earnings and 2.9% for Medicare on all net earnings. Unlike traditional employees, who share this tax burden with their employers, self-employed individuals are responsible for the full amount.

Step 3: Determine Income Tax

Based on your estimated AGI, determine your income tax bracket to estimate the income tax you owe. Use the current IRS tax tables and consider any tax credits or deductions you’re eligible for, such as the home office deduction or expenses related to your business.

Step 4: Use IRS Form 1040-ES

Form 1040-ES includes a worksheet that guides you through estimating your tax liability for the year and dividing it into quarterly payments. This form takes into account both your estimated self-employment tax and income tax.

Step 5: Consider Using Tax Estimation Software or a Professional

Many self-employed individuals find it helpful to use tax software or consult with a tax professional to estimate their taxes. These resources can provide a more detailed analysis based on your specific financial situation and help ensure you’re making accurate payments.

Making Adjustments

It’s crucial to revisit your estimated tax payments throughout the year, especially if your income significantly deviates from your initial projections. If you find that you’ve overestimated or underestimated your earnings, adjust your remaining quarterly payments accordingly to avoid underpayment or overpayment.

By taking a methodical approach to estimate your quarterly tax payments, you can ensure that you’re fulfilling your tax obligations without overpaying or facing penalties for underpayment. This process requires regular review and adjustment based on your actual earnings, ensuring that your tax payments accurately reflect your financial situation.

Table 2: Estimated Tax Calculation Guide

Record-Keeping and Documentation

Effective record-keeping is a cornerstone of successful tax management for self-employed individuals. Maintaining organized and accurate financial records not only simplifies the process of estimating quarterly taxes but also ensures you are prepared for annual tax filings and any potential audits. Here’s how to manage your documentation effectively:

Importance of Diligent Record-Keeping

• Tax Accuracy: Proper documentation supports accurate tax filings, helping to ensure that you pay the correct amount in taxes and claim all eligible deductions and credits.
• Audit Preparedness: In the event of an IRS audit, comprehensive records will substantiate your income, expenses, and tax payments.
• Financial Oversight: Regularly updating and reviewing your financial records provides insights into your business’s financial health, aiding in better decision-making.

Essential Documents to Maintain

• Income Records: Keep detailed records of all income sources, including invoices, payment receipts, and bank statements showing deposits.
• Expense Receipts: Collect and categorize receipts for all business-related expenses, which can be used to claim deductions. These might include costs for office supplies, travel, utilities, and professional services.
• Bank and Credit Card Statements: These can serve as a secondary record to verify income and expenses.
• Tax Payment Receipts: Retain proof of all estimated tax payments made throughout the year, including dates and amounts.

Organizational Strategies

• Digital Record-Keeping: Consider using digital tools or software for storing and organizing your financial documents. Cloud-based accounting software can categorize income and expenses, generate reports, and store digital copies of receipts and invoices.
• Regular Updates: Update your records frequently (at least monthly) to avoid a backlog of documentation and to keep a real-time view of your financial situation.
• Separate Business and Personal Finances: Use separate bank accounts and credit cards for business and personal transactions to simplify record-keeping and tax preparation.

Year-End Review

As the year closes, conduct a thorough review of your financial records to ensure everything is in order. This is also an excellent time to assess your business’s financial performance and plan for the upcoming year.

Maintaining disciplined record-keeping practices is not just about compliance; it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of your business finances, which can lead to more informed decisions and strategies for growth. By keeping your financial records organized and up-to-date, you ensure that you’re well-prepared for both tax season and any financial opportunities or challenges that may arise.

Table 3: Common Deductible Expenses for the Self-Employed

Payment Methods for Quarterly Taxes

Once you’ve estimated your quarterly tax payments, the next step is to understand the various payment options available to you. The IRS offers several convenient methods to pay your estimated taxes, each with its own advantages. Choosing the right payment method can save you time and ensure your payments are processed efficiently and securely.

Direct Pay

• Description: Direct Pay allows you to pay directly from your checking or savings account at no cost.
• Benefits: It’s a secure and fast method, with immediate confirmation of payment. You can also schedule payments up to 30 days in advance.
• Considerations: Ensure your bank account has sufficient funds to avoid overdraft fees.

Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)

• Description: EFTPS is a free service provided by the U.S. Department of the Treasury for paying federal taxes electronically online or by phone.
• Benefits: It offers high security, the ability to schedule payments in advance (up to 365 days), and detailed payment history for up to 16 months.
• Considerations: You must enroll in EFTPS, which can take up to seven days to process. Planning ahead is crucial.

IRS2Go App

• Description: The IRS2Go app is the official mobile app of the IRS, allowing you to make payments and check your refund status.
• Benefits: It’s convenient for taxpayers who prefer managing their taxes via mobile devices.
• Considerations: The app is best suited for straightforward payments and may not offer the detailed scheduling options of other methods.

Credit or Debit Card Payments

• Description: You can pay your taxes using a credit or debit card through third-party payment processors approved by the IRS.
• Benefits: This method is beneficial if you need to make a payment quickly or want to take advantage of rewards programs offered by your card.
• Considerations: There are processing fees associated with card payments, and if you use a credit card, be mindful of interest charges if the balance is not paid in full.

Check or Money Order

• Description: If you prefer a traditional payment method, you can send a check or money order by mail.
• Benefits: This method does not require internet access and can be a preferred option for those wary of online transactions.
• Considerations: Mailing payments requires careful attention to deadlines to ensure your payment arrives on time. There’s also a risk of loss or delay in the mail.

Choosing the Best Method for You

Consider your financial habits, access to technology, and personal preferences when selecting a payment method. Ensure that you keep records of all transactions, including confirmation numbers and receipts, for your records.

By familiarizing yourself with these payment options, you can choose the method that best suits your needs, ensuring that your quarterly tax payments are made efficiently and on time. This aspect of tax planning is crucial for maintaining good standing with the IRS and avoiding unnecessary penalties.

Adjusting Payments in Response to Income Fluctuations

For self-employed individuals, income can be unpredictable, with fluctuations throughout the year due to seasonal trends, market demand, or other factors. This variability can make estimating quarterly tax payments challenging. It’s essential to understand how to adjust your payments in response to these fluctuations to avoid underpayment or overpayment of taxes.

Monitoring Income Throughout the Year

• Regular Review: Schedule monthly or quarterly reviews of your business income and expenses. This habit will help you identify significant deviations from your initial estimates.
• Adjustment Triggers: Identify specific triggers that warrant an adjustment to your estimated payments. This could be a new, significant contract, a substantial change in business expenses, or an unexpected financial windfall or setback.

Adjusting Your Estimated Tax Payments

• Mid-Year Check-In: Around mid-year, perform a comprehensive review of your finances. Compare your actual earnings and expenses against your initial projections to determine if adjustments are needed.
• IRS Form 1040-ES: Revisit the Estimated Tax Worksheet included in Form 1040-ES to recalculate your estimated taxes based on your updated income and expense projections.

Responding to Increased Income

• Increased Payments: If you find that your income is significantly higher than anticipated, increase your remaining quarterly payments to avoid underpayment penalties.
• Lump-Sum Payment: If you prefer not to adjust each payment, consider making a lump-sum payment to cover the shortfall in your next quarterly payment.

Handling Decreased Income

• Reduced Payments: If your income is lower than expected, you can reduce your remaining quarterly payments accordingly. This adjustment can help maintain cash flow and prevent overpayment.
• Refunds and Credits: If you’ve overpaid in earlier quarters, you might be eligible for a refund when you file your annual tax return. Alternatively, you can apply overpayments as credits toward future tax liabilities.

Documentation and Communication with the IRS

• Document Changes: Keep detailed records of why and how you adjusted your estimated payments. This documentation will be invaluable in case of an IRS inquiry.
• Form 2210: In some cases, you may need to file Form 2210, “Underpayment of Estimated Tax by Individuals, Estates, and Trusts,” with your tax return. This form helps calculate any underpayment penalty and can also show the IRS that your income varied during the year, which may reduce or eliminate penalties.

Adjusting your estimated tax payments in response to income fluctuations is a critical aspect of managing your taxes as a self-employed individual. By staying vigilant and responsive to changes in your financial situation, you can ensure that you pay the right amount in taxes, avoiding penalties and optimizing your cash flow.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Navigating the complexities of quarterly taxes can be daunting for self-employed individuals. Awareness of common pitfalls and understanding how to avoid them is crucial to ensure accurate and timely tax payments. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes and tips on how to steer clear of them:

1. Underestimating Income

• Pitfall: Many self-employed individuals underestimate their income, leading to underpayment of taxes and potential penalties.
• Avoidance Strategy: Regularly review and adjust your income estimates based on actual earnings. Use a conservative approach when estimating future income to ensure you cover potential tax liabilities.

2. Overlooking Deductible Expenses

• Pitfall: Failing to account for all deductible business expenses can result in overpaying taxes.
• Avoidance Strategy: Maintain meticulous records of all business-related expenses. Regularly consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re aware of all deductible expenses relevant to your business.

3. Missing Deadlines

• Pitfall: Missing quarterly tax payment deadlines can lead to penalties and interest charges.
• Avoidance Strategy: Set reminders for each quarterly deadline and consider making payments a few days in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

4. Poor Record-Keeping

• Pitfall: Inadequate financial records can make it difficult to accurately estimate taxes and defend deductions during an audit.
• Avoidance Strategy: Implement a reliable system for tracking income and expenses. Consider using accounting software tailored for self-employed professionals.

5. Ignoring Tax Law Changes

• Pitfall: Tax laws and regulations can change, affecting how much you owe.
• Avoidance Strategy: Stay informed about tax law changes that might impact your business. Subscribe to tax-related newsletters, attend webinars, or consult with a tax professional regularly.

6. Not Adjusting Payments for Changes in Income or Expenses

• Pitfall: Failure to adjust estimated tax payments in response to significant changes in income or expenses can lead to underpayment or overpayment of taxes.
• Avoidance Strategy: Reassess your tax situation quarterly and adjust your estimated payments as needed to reflect changes in your financial situation.

7. Handling Taxes Solo

• Pitfall: Attempting to manage all tax responsibilities on your own can be overwhelming and may lead to mistakes.
• Avoidance Strategy: Consider enlisting the help of a tax professional, especially if your tax situation is complex or you’re experiencing significant changes in your business.

By being mindful of these common pitfalls and adopting proactive strategies to avoid them, self-employed individuals can better manage their quarterly taxes, ensuring compliance with tax laws and maintaining financial stability.

Seeking Professional Help

As self-employed individuals navigate the intricacies of quarterly taxes, there may come a point when professional guidance becomes not just beneficial but essential. Understanding when to seek the expertise of a tax professional or financial advisor can save time, reduce stress, and potentially lead to financial savings through more effective tax strategies and planning.

Recognizing the Need for Professional Assistance

• Complex Tax Situations: If your tax situation involves multiple income streams, significant investments, or international aspects, the complexity might warrant professional advice.
• Major Life Events: Life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the start of a new business can significantly impact your tax obligations and planning needs.
• Business Growth: As your business expands, so do your financial and tax planning needs. A professional can offer strategies for tax efficiency and compliance amidst growth.
• Audit Situations: If you find yourself facing an IRS audit, having a tax professional by your side can be invaluable in navigating the process and minimizing any potential fallout.

Benefits of Professional Tax Planning and Advice

• Strategic Planning: Tax professionals can provide strategic advice on reducing your tax liability legally and effectively through deductions, credits, and tax-efficient business structures.
• Time Savings: Delegating tax planning and preparation to an expert can free up your time to focus on running and growing your business.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that a professional is handling your taxes can provide peace of mind and reduce the stress associated with tax compliance and deadlines.
• Audit Support: In the event of an audit, a tax professional can provide representation and guidance, leveraging their expertise to navigate the process smoothly.

Choosing the Right Tax Professional

• Credentials and Experience: Look for professionals with relevant credentials (such as CPA or EA) and experience in handling tax situations similar to yours.
• Specialization: Consider professionals who specialize in tax issues for the self-employed or small businesses, as they are likely to be more familiar with the nuances of your specific tax needs.
• Reputation and References: Seek recommendations from peers and read reviews to gauge the reputation of a tax professional or firm.

Establishing a Productive Relationship

• Open Communication: Provide your tax professional with complete and accurate information about your financial situation. Clear communication is key to effective tax planning.
• Proactive Engagement: Engage with your tax advisor regularly, not just at tax time, to ensure that your tax strategy aligns with your business’s changing needs and goals.
• Understanding Their Advice: While you don’t need to become a tax expert, having a basic understanding of the strategies your advisor recommends can help you make informed decisions about your business and finances.

Seeking professional help for managing your quarterly taxes and broader tax strategy can be a wise investment in your business’s future. The right advisor can not only help you navigate the complexities of the tax system but also uncover opportunities to optimize your tax situation and support your business’s overall financial health.

Summary and Recap: Navigating Quarterly Taxes for the Self-Employed

Managing quarterly taxes is a critical component of financial planning for self-employed individuals. This guide aimed to demystify the process, providing clear steps, essential resources, and practical tips to ensure you meet your tax obligations efficiently and effectively.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Quarterly Taxes: Recognize the importance of estimated tax payments as part of the “pay-as-you-go” tax system in the U.S. and learn how to determine if you’re required to make these payments.
• Staying on Schedule: Mark your calendar with the quarterly tax deadlines (April 15, June 15, September 15, January 15) to avoid penalties and maintain financial stability.
• Estimating Payments: Use a systematic approach to estimate your tax payments accurately, considering your expected income, deductible expenses, and applicable tax rates.
• Record-Keeping: Maintain meticulous financial records to support your estimated payments, facilitate tax filing, and prepare for any potential audits.
• Payment Methods: Choose a payment method that suits your preferences and ensures timely and secure tax payments, from IRS Direct Pay to traditional checks.
• Adjusting Payments: Stay adaptive by monitoring your income throughout the year and adjusting your estimated payments to reflect any significant changes.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Be aware of common mistakes, such as underestimating income or missing deadlines, and employ strategies to avoid them.
• Professional Assistance: Consider seeking advice from tax professionals, especially in complex situations or significant financial changes, to optimize your tax strategy.

Resources and Tools:

We’ve provided a wealth of resources, from IRS guides to professional tax software, to support you in managing your quarterly taxes. Utilize these tools to streamline your tax calculations, stay informed about tax law changes, and connect with tax professionals when needed.

Engage and Learn:

We encourage you to share your experiences, challenges, and questions about managing quarterly taxes. Engaging with a community of peers and professionals can provide additional insights and support.

In conclusion, while managing quarterly taxes may seem daunting, breaking down the process into manageable steps and leveraging available resources can significantly simplify it. By staying informed, organized, and proactive, you can navigate your tax obligations with confidence, ensuring your financial health and compliance with tax laws.

Quarterly Tax Planning Checklist for the Self-Employed Example

This checklist is designed to help self-employed individuals manage their quarterly tax obligations effectively. Use it as a guide to ensure you stay organized and compliant throughout the year.

Understanding and Preparation

• Understand the requirement for paying quarterly taxes.
• Determine if you are liable for quarterly tax payments based on your expected annual tax due.
• Familiarize yourself with key tax terms and calculations, including adjusted gross income, deductible expenses, and tax brackets.

Financial Documentation and Record-Keeping

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all income sources.
• Keep receipts and documentation for all deductible expenses.
• Separate personal and business finances to simplify record-keeping and tax calculations.

Estimation and Calculation

• Estimate your annual income and deductible expenses to calculate your adjusted gross income.
• Use IRS Form 1040-ES or tax estimation software to calculate your estimated tax payments.
• Set aside a portion of your income regularly in a separate account for tax payments.

Payment Scheduling and Submission

• Mark your calendar with the quarterly tax payment deadlines: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15.
• Choose your preferred payment method (e.g., IRS Direct Pay, EFTPS, check, or money order).
• Make your tax payments on or before each deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

Monitoring and Adjusting

• Regularly review your income and expenses throughout the year for any significant changes.
• Adjust your estimated tax payments if your income significantly increases or decreases.
• Keep track of all payments made, including dates and amounts, for your records.

Seeking Assistance and Staying Informed

• Consult with a tax professional or financial advisor for complex tax situations or major financial changes.
• Stay updated on any changes to tax laws that may affect your tax obligations.
• Utilize available resources and tools for self-employed individuals to aid in tax planning and compliance.

Annual Reconciliation

• Prepare and file your annual tax return, reconciling your estimated payments with your actual tax liability.
• Apply for a refund or make an additional payment if necessary based on your annual tax filing.

Tax Resources for the Self-Employed

Navigating the complexities of quarterly taxes and overall tax planning can be challenging for self-employed individuals. To assist in this process, here’s a curated list of essential tax resources, tools, and services designed to simplify tax management and ensure compliance.

IRS Resources

• IRS Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center: A comprehensive resource offering tax information and tools tailored for self-employed professionals. (IRS Self-Employed Tax Center)
• Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals: Use this form to calculate and submit your estimated quarterly taxes. (IRS Form 1040-ES)
• Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS): A free service for paying federal taxes online or by phone. Registration is required. (EFTPS)

Tax Calculators and Tools

• TurboTax Estimated Tax Calculator: An easy-to-use tool to help estimate your taxes and understand your tax obligations. (TurboTax Calculator)
• QuickBooks Self-Employed Tax Bundle: Combines accounting software with TurboTax to streamline expense tracking, quarterly tax estimates, and annual tax filings. (QuickBooks Self-Employed)

Educational Resources

• National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE): Offers educational resources, webinars, and guides on taxes for self-employed individuals. (NASE)
• Small Business Administration (SBA) Learning Center: Provides a wealth of information on starting and managing a business, including tax considerations. (SBA Learning Center)

Tax Software

• H&R Block: Offers online tax filing services with options for additional support from tax professionals. (H&R Block)
• TaxAct: Provides self-employed tax filing solutions with guidance to optimize deductions and credits. (TaxAct)

Professional Associations

• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA): Find a CPA specializing in tax issues for small businesses and the self-employed. (AICPA)
• National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA): Enrolled agents are tax specialists certified by the IRS. Use the NAEA’s Find an EA directory for professional assistance. (NAEA)

Tax Advocacy and Assistance

• Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS): An independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers resolve problems and recommends changes to prevent future issues. (TAS)
• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Provides free tax help to people who generally make $57,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. (VITA)