Official Site of The State of New Jersey

As you likely know, Americans need to file paperwork for state and federal taxes each year. The annual deadline is typically on or around April 15th (you can check the IRS website for the exact dates). Some low-income households don't end up having to pay and get refunds or rebates. Here is a checklist from the United Way of what you will need on hand to file taxes. It includes:

• Picture ID
• Social Security Card or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for all family members
• Proof of income sources like W-2s and 1099s (which are often mailed to you by the people you work for)
• Proof of expenses like childcare and student loans and medical expenses
• Copy of last year's federal and state tax returns.

You may also need other documents, depending on the conversation you have with your tax preparer. There are a few free tax preparation programs in New Jersey, often offered as part of an IRS program called VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance).

• United Way of Northern New Jersey. Free virtual tax preparation for low and moderate-income earners. FYI, businesses and landlords aren't eligible for this program. You can also call 973-993-1160 extension 521 or email UnitedWayTaxPrep@UnitedWayNNJ.org.
• United Way's My Free Taxes. An online portal where individuals can file their taxes for free. Includes an option to connect with certified tax assistants. You can also call 866-698-9435.
• Campaign for Working Families. Free support for individuals filing their taxes, by appointment only. The website has a list of documents and other resources. You can file virtually here or call 215-454-6483. In-person location: 1415 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122.

Camden County

• New Jersey Citizen Action. Free tax preparation for households earning up to $65,000 by appointment only. Call 888-829-3711 for more information. Camden County location: 1040 Kings Highway, Suite 308, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034.

Essex County

• New Jersey Citizen Action. Free tax preparation for households earning up to $65,000 by appointment only. Call 888-829-3711 for more information. Essex County location: The Hahne's Building, 625 Broad Street, Suite 270, Newark, NJ 07102.

Hudson County

• HOPES. Assistance with free tax preparation, by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment online or call 201-468-8805.

Middlesex County

• New Jersey Citizen Action. Free tax preparation for households earning up to $65,000 by appointment only. Call 888-829-3711 for more information. Middlesex County location: 75 Raritan Avenue, Suite 200, Highland Park, NJ 08904.

Somerset County

• HOPES. Assistance with free tax preparation, by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment online or call 201-468-8805. Union County HOPES. Assistance with free tax preparation, by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment online or call 201-468-8805.

• Request a copy of your tax records from the IRS (click "Get Transcript Online," create an account or enter your information, and complete the request or call 800-908-9946)
• Create an Identity Protection PIN with the IRS to prevent someone else from filing taxes electronically under your name (click "Get an IP Pin," create an account or enter your information, and complete the request or call 800-908-4450)