What if I can’t use GetYourRefund? What are my filing options?

Some income levels and certain IRS forms are out of scope for our services. If you can’t use GetYourRefund there are still many ways to file your taxes:

Prepare your own return using Free File Fillable Forms: File your federal tax return online for free, for any income level. 
This service:

- Requires you to do the work of entering your information into online tax forms that you select
- Requires you to use the form instructions to guide you
- Does not include state tax filing

Eligible members of the military can use MilTax: The Department of Defense provides MilTax as a free tax resource for the military community. MilTax is a suite of tax services available for members of the military, as well as qualifying veterans and family members. There are no income limits.

Prepare your own return using File by mail: Print out your federal tax forms and fill them out by hand. Then mail in your completed return to the IRS. Please note that filing by mail takes longer for the IRS to process than e-filing and may delay any refund. 

If you need to file a state return, go to your state tax department website to access the paper forms and instructions for mailing.

We have more information about filing by mail here. 

Prepare your own return using Paid Tax Preparation software: You have a lot of options for finding paid tax preparation software. Here are some tips to finding the right one for you:
- Before starting, make sure the software supports the type of income and deductions you have
- Make sure the software allows for state tax filing if you need it
- Be sure to check for any additional fees they may have for your type of income and deductions

Find a paid preparer to prepare your return: While a paid preparer is responsible for the overall accuracy of your tax return, you are still ultimately accountable for the accuracy of every item reported on your return. You can browse directories of Enrolled Agents in your area as a starting point. 

 

It is a good idea to follow these tips from the IRS when choosing a paid preparer:
- Paid preparers are required by law to sign the return and include their preparer tax identification number (PTIN) on it 
- Be wary of tax return preparers who claim they can obtain larger refunds than others can
- Avoid tax return preparers who base their fees on a percentage of the refund or who offer to deposit all or part of your refund into their financial accounts
- The preparer should provide you with a copy of your return to keep for your records
- Consider whether the preparer will be around for months or years after filing the return to answer questions about the preparation of the tax return
- Never sign a blank tax form
- Good preparers will ask to see your records and receipts. They'll also ask questions to figure things like the total income, tax deductions and credits
- Check the preparer’s history. You can ask the local Better Business Bureau about the preparer
- Check the person's credentials. Only attorneys, CPAs, and enrolled agents can represent you before the IRS in all matters, including audits, collections, and appeals