JEFFERSON CITY — With the April 15 deadline approaching to file state and federal income taxes, Sen. Brian Nieves, R-Washington, would like to promote complimentary tax preparation and e-filing services available to his constituents through the IRS Free File program. The program was created by a partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a non-profit coalition of chief tax software companies, which assists citizens with tax preparation. The Free File Alliance stated that this year, taxpayers with a 2012 Adjusted Gross Income of $57,000 or less have the opportunity to prepare, complete and e-file their federal tax returns, free of charge.

To begin, taxpayers should visit the IRS website at www.IRS.gov/freefile. Users will find a list of Free File Alliance member companies and may either choose one that fits their needs, or utilize the “Help Me Find a Company” tool. After selecting a tax software company, taxpayers will be transferred to the respective company's website to prepare, complete, and electronically file their federal income tax returns.

“Tax season can be overwhelming and confusing, not to mention expensive, if you hire someone to help you file your taxes,” Sen. Nieves said. “The Free File program offers inclusive services that allow you to pick a tax software company that best suits your needs, so you can file your taxes swiftly and efficiently.”

The Free File Alliance notes that its member companies work closely with the IRS to strengthen and ensure the quality of the Free File program, and taxpayers have consistently praised the program’s efficiency. Responding to a 2009 IRS survey, 96 percent of users said they found the Free File program easy to use, and 98 percent said they would recommend the program to others.

To learn more about the IRS Free File program, visit www.freefilealliance.org or www.freefile.irs.gov.