There are some shady tax preparers out there. Avoid them.

 Here are a few ways to get your taxes done for free without risking life and limb.

 For those 60 and older and/or low to moderate incomes ($51,000 or less):

 AARP Tax-Aide: The Tax-Aide program, sponsored jointly by the AARP and the IRS, is offering free tax assistance in several locations across the metro-area including Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell as well as to residents, students, faculty and staff of Gwinnett Technical College in Lawrenceville.

These walk-in programs are run by trained volunteers, include electronic filing and run through April 15 or 16.

 For more information about free income tax preparation and tax counseling available at Gwinnett Tech, call 770-962-7580.

 For information on services in the other areas mentioned, visit the website or call 888-227-7669.

 The VITA Program: IRS certified volunteers provide basic income tax prep for individuals with household incomes of $51,000 or less (this figure has been UPDATED).

 The volunteers can help inform you of credits for which you may qualify such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled. Sites are located in community and neighborhood centers, libraries, malls or other convenient locations and most offer e-filing.

 To find a VITA site call 1-800-906-9887 or use this locator tool or for metro-Atlanta sites only visit atlantaprosperity.org.

 For those with incomes of $57,000 or less:

 The Free File Alliance: For 11 years, Free File Alliance has partnered with the IRS to offer free online tax services to about 100 million eligible taxpayers.

 The nonprofit coalition of industry-leading tax software companies provides free online commercial tax preparation software for taxpayers with a 2012 adjusted gross income of $57,000 or less.

 Taxpayers have access to 15 different tax software offerings so they can choose the one that works best for their tax situation.  Once you chose a company, you are routed to the company website to prepare, complete and electronically file your returns. The service is also available in Spanish.

 Just visit the website to prepare, complete and e-file your federal tax return at no cost.

 For all taxpayers:

 Free File Fillable Forms: Also from the Free File Alliance, this service allows all taxpayers who do not need assistance preparing their returns to complete and file their federal income tax electronically. There are no income limitations.

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