How to Get Free Assistance Filing Tax Returns in Michigan Through VITA

Co-authored by Tiffany Vaught

Last Updated: January 8, 2026

In Michigan, households that make less than or equal to $56,000 a year (individually or as a family) qualify for free tax filing assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA). VITA is a program that uses IRS-certified volunteers to provide free tax return preparation.

Steps

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1
Collect all of your income statements. This includes W-2's, SSI and W-2G.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Tiffany Vaught
Tax Accountant

Expert Interview} You can find a list of everything you need on the IRS site here.
2
If you are missing any income statements visit https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript to have a copy of your income statements mailed to you.^{[2]
X
Expert Source

Tiffany Vaught
Tax Accountant

Expert Interview} Be aware that a lot of volunteers cannot use the online transcripts because some information on them has been censored by the IRS.

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3
Verify that you and your family made $56,000 or less within the year.
4
Collect all of your personal identification, and that of your family. This includes Michigan Driver's License or State ID and Social Security Card.
5
Collect proof of expenses. This includes mortgage payments, proof of rental contract, heating expenses, student loans, etc.
6
Collect any additional paperwork that you would like to receive credit for including charity donations like cars, clothes, and furniture.
7
Call 1-800-906-9887 or visit https://www.irs.gov/individuals/find-a-location-for-free-tax-prep to locate the nearest VITA location. Choose a location that accepts appointments.
- Note: They will inquire about your income, family size, address, and zip code to ensure you are qualified to use this service before they help you locate the closest VITA site.
8
If you cannot set an appointment choose a location that does not require an appointment.
9
If you set an appointment in the metro Detroit area allow thirty minutes prior to your appointment to find parking and sign in. Your name will be called at your appointment time.
- If you choose to do a "walk-in" dress appropriately for weather conditions and make sure you sign in. Be aware that you will be called on a "first come first served" basis.
- If you choose to set an appointment, allow two hours to get your taxes completed.
- If you choose to do a "walk-in" allow five hours of free time to get your taxes done.
- If filing jointly both parties must be in attendance during filing and signing of documentation.
10
Provide all collected information to the volunteer accountant.
11
Decide if you will submit your returns electronically. This means it could take up to 4 weeks to get your return. If you submit by mail, it could take up to 8 weeks to get your return.
- File by mid-April to avoid late filing fees from the IRS.

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Have all of your information (including your family's information) when calling

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Choose a location you can find and have ample time to travel to

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