File for free & find answers
Free, trusted ways to file your own return — plus answers to the questions we hear most.
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.
- 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.
- GetYourRefund — a free, IRS-certified virtual service from the non-profit Code for America. Get matched with volunteers or file yourself online.
- IRS Free File — the IRS’s official free filing program. It covers your federal return only, so you’d still need to file Maryland separately.
- Free tax-prep sites near you — other free in-person sites and financial resources across Baltimore.
These links open external sites we trust but don’t operate. Always confirm you’re on an official .gov or program website before entering personal information.
More helpful resources
Programs and services our clients often find useful — from tax credits and legal help to financial coaching.
- Other free tax-prep options — find other IRS-sponsored free tax-prep sites near you.
- Create an ID.me account — access the tax records 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.
- Student loan debt relief credit — Maryland’s tax credit to help pay down student loan debt.
- Maryland college savings match — contribute to a Maryland 529 plan and you may qualify for a matching grant.
- Free tax-related legal help — the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service provides free legal help for Marylanders in need.
- Benefits screening & coaching — CASH Campaign checks eligibility for 20+ programs and offers free financial coaching.
- Marketplace insurance explained — answers about Marketplace insurance eligibility and tax impacts.
- Register to vote in Maryland — step-by-step voter registration and how to update your information.
Common questions
How much does UMBC VITA cost?
It’s completely free. VITA is an IRS-sponsored program, and our volunteers never charge for tax preparation.
Who is eligible for free 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.
Can international students use VITA?
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.
What should I bring to an appointment?
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.
How do I volunteer?
No experience needed — we train you and support you through IRS certification. Visit the Volunteer page or email VITA@umbc.edu to get started.
Still have questions? Email VITA@umbc.edu or call 443-612-4829.