Local help available for last-minute income tax filers

If you haven’t yet filed your income taxes, you’re not alone.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, nearly 40 million taxpayers across the country have yet to file.

The deadline to file or to request an extension is Tuesday, April 18, at midnight.

IRS.gov has information for last-minute filers, including free e-file options and how to file for an extension. The federal agency will also have special Saturday phone assistance from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-800-829-1040.

Locally, the United Way of Southern Arizona’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program will provide free tax preparation through Saturday for individuals and families earning up to $64,000 annually.

It will also host a “Filing Finale” on Tuesday at the United Way office, 330 N. Commerce Park Loop, No. 200, with extended hours from 10 a.m. to midnight.

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The VITA program helps taxpayers access all tax credits for which they are eligible – including the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.

For information about locations, schedules and required documents, visit www.unitedwaytucson.org/vita

TAX REFUNDS

The fastest way for taxpayers to get their refund is to have it electronically deposited into their bank or other financial account, the IRS says. Taxpayers can use direct deposit to send their refund into as many as three accounts.

After filing, the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov can be used to track the status of a refund. The tool is updated once per day, usually overnight.

The IRS issues nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days.