Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the FREE tax preparation site located?

Gracie’s Village – Community Room (Map), 1540 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe, AZ (located on the northwest corner of Apache Blvd. and Una (Butte) Avenue, a few blocks west of McClintock Drive).  If driving, please park in the lot behind Gracie’s Thrift Store and use the spaces on the north and west perimeter of the lot.  If utilizing public transportation, here is a link to best plan your trip.  For 2024, this site will only be used for prescheduled/online appointment for drop-off and remote tax services – no walk-ins accepted.

When is the FREE tax preparation site open?

Mondays (1-6pm) & Thursdays (4-8pm) (by appointment only)
January 29-April 11, 2024

Saturdays – 9 am to 1 pm (by appointment only)
February 3-April 13, 2024 

All tax services are by appointment only.  A limited number of appointments are available each day the tax site is open. Click link below to check availability and schedule an appointment.  

Some walk-ins will be accepted if there is availability. Scheduling an appointment will guarantee services.

Check availability and schedule an appointment >   (Available appointments will be posted on January 16, after 8 am).   

Who is eligible?

You may be eligible for free tax preparation if you meet one of these requirements:

  • Low-to-moderate income taxpayers making under $64,000 in 2023
  • Seniors (65 and older)
  • Individuals with disabilities
  • Veteran

Eligibility is subject to complexity of the tax return. 

What do I need to bring with me?

Complete List of What to Bring  >

What types of tax returns are prepared?

Federal and Arizona State such as Forms 1040 and related schedules such as A, B & C.  Past year federal tax returns such as Forms 1040 and related schedules such as A, B & C for 2023, 2022 and 2021.

Can you complete a tax return for a state other than Arizona?

Yes, the IRS software program we use does provide access to other states’ tax forms, however tax preparers may be limited to filing state tax returns other than Arizona dependent on the complexity of the information needing to be filed.             

Can I split my refund between bank accounts or purchase US Savings Bonds?

The IRS has made it easy to save some of your federal tax refund by allowing you to split your tax refund among three accounts, such as a checking, savings and a U.S. Savings Bond. Plan to bring your checking and savings account numbers and the name of your financial institution with you when you get your taxes done. The Tempe VITA site offers incentives to save a portion of your tax refund by purchasing a US Series I Savings Bond.  VITA volunteers will answer your questions about the incentives for purchasing US Savings Bonds.

Can a volunteer at the site help me apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?

Taxpayers served at this VITA site will have trained volunteers to assist them in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after their return is completed.

Is there anything NEW I have to bring as part of the Health Care Law and my tax return?

Taxpayers who participate in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Healthcare Marketplace will need to bring Form 1095 A (ACA Statement).  Taxpayers who purchase their own healthcare coverage or have employer-provided healthcare are not required to bring Form 1095 B or C or other health insurance verification.  For more info visit the IRS webpage on Health Care Law & Your Return and Affordable Care Act Tax Provisions for Individuals and Families.

Can I be screened for benefits such as Food Stamps at the site?

Yes, it is an easy process completed at the time of your tax return preparation.

Am I eligible for any federal tax credits?

Click the links below to learn about the four common tax credits (and the new credit related to the Affordable Care Act) and eligibility requirements.

Earned Income Tax Credit >
Child Care Tax Credit >
Child Tax Credit >
Education Tax Credit >
Premium Tax Credit >

Are there special requirements for self-employed taxpayers?

Yes, please review the special requirements for self-employed taxpayers before coming to the Free Tax Prep site. You may NOT be eligible to receive free tax preparation at this and other Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites.

Learn More >

What disability accommodations or language assistance do you offer?  

TCC joins with the IRS to make free tax preparation services available to any taxpayer.  Reasonable accommodations  or language assistance requests can be made when scheduling your tax appointment or by calling 480.858.2300.   At least two weeks advance notice may be needed for some requests.  For more information on accessibility visit our Access Info page. 

Are there other VITA sites outside of Tempe that offer free tax preparation services?

The Maricopa County VITA Network includes tax preparation sites in Mesa, Chandler, Phoenix and the West Valley.  Utilize the quick links below to locate additional tax sites near you.  Note:  Most tax site locations will not be listed until after January 18, 2024.

To find a VITA site near you click here then enter your zip code on this IRS information website .

Central Arizona VITA Network >
Azure/Mesa United Way >
City of Phoenix >
West Valley >
AARP >
Scottsdale >

Is there somewhere I can get tax help once the tax site closes after April 15?

Yes, there is an option.  To find a VITA site near you click here then enter your zip code on this IRS information website or visit:

Azure/Mesa United Way >