The 2023 tax filing deadline is a month away, but don’t fret. Free tax preparation services are available across the neighborhood, both in-person and virtually, in English, Spanish and other languages.
Households making $64,000 or less can take advantage of free services provided by the Mission Economic Development Agency to file their tax returns or renew their Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, which many undocumented workers use to file taxes. The $64,000 limit is per tax return, meaning a married couple and a single individual earning up to that income would both be eligible. It is not a hard cutoff, however, according to MEDA’s spokesperson, Christina Tetreault, so those interested should call in for more details.
Taxpayers can make an appointment online, or call 415-209-5143 to get in-person assistance at Plaza Adelante, 2301 Mission St. at 19th Street. Walk-ins are available on some days, depending on volunteer availability, but appointments are recommended. Even with the appointment, plan on up to 30 minutes of wait time.
Taxpayers can also use MEDA’s online service through April 10, but documents must be submitted online by April 1 in order to meet the April 15 filing deadline.
Taxpayers should bring W-2s, proof of health insurance, and any other tax documents to the appointment, and are also encouraged to fill out and print MEDA’s intake and consent forms in advance. For those without access to a printer, the San Francisco Public Library provides $2 worth of free copying and printing for library card holders — and it’s free to get a library card.
San Francisco’s Human Services Agency is also providing free tax assistance for households earning less than $64,000 at its two locations: 170 Otis St. (document drop-off only and also operated by MEDA), and 3120 Mission St. (walk-ins accepted).
For individuals who earned a bit more, but less than $70,000, the Women’s Building is providing free tax preparation service through April 13. Appointments are available on Thursdays from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Current or former foster youth, or youth on probation who were between 18 and 25 at the end of 2023, are also eligible for free in-person and virtual tax services from SFCASA, through April 15. The nonprofit, located at 1663 Mission St. just north of Highway 101, will accept appointments on weekdays and selected Saturdays.
Other free tax services are available across the city. Check here for details. And those earning less than $79,000 can file their taxes for free through the Internal Revenue Service, which will guide you in the process. Any tax filer, regardless of income, can also use IRS online forms to file for free — but the agency does not offer any guidance there.
After making an appointment I went to the HSA site at 170 Otis just this Monday where a nice young lady, Jesy, helped me.
I had my tax done for me at the same place last year too. It was so easy and I completely trust the service.
I have had nothing but headaches and trouble whenever I have done my own tax returns.
I will be so happy when I get my refund!