Free File Alliance Benefits Oklahoma Taxpayers

Statement

Free File Alliance Benefits Oklahoma Taxpayers

Earlier this month, I was pleased to help announce a program that will help many Oklahomans complete their state and federal income taxes and be sure they have claimed all the credits and exemptions for which they are eligible.

The Oklahoma Free File Alliance is a partnership between the IRS, the Oklahoma State Tax Commission and the electronic tax software industry. Eligibility requirements for the Free File program vary, but many working Oklahoma families, as well as students, seniors and military personnel, will qualify.

Using the Free File program saves taxpayers the cost of hiring professional help and ensures that taxes are done properly. The IRS estimates that as many as 25 percent of eligible taxpayers do not claim the Earned Income Credit. In difficult economic times, claiming all appropriate deductions and credits can make a big difference to Oklahoma families.

The Free File program is especially useful for Oklahoma's military families. Whether a family member serves our country on active duty or in the National Guard or Reserve, many military households qualify to use Free File software. For those who sacrifice so much for our country and our state, Free File can mean real savings and one less worry.

Nationally, the Free File Alliance gives 70 percent of tax filers a choice of using 20 different tax preparation software tools free of charge. It's a great public-private partnership that offers great benefits for the Oklahomans and people all across our country.

Using tax preparation software reduces errors and filing electronically produces faster tax refunds. I encourage all eligible Oklahoma to take advantage of this opportunity to complete their tax returns quickly and easily.

To find out more about how you can get free software to complete your taxes, visit the IRS website at www.freefile.irs.gov and the Oklahoma Tax Commission at www.tax.ok.gov.

If you have questions or comments, please write me at the Office of the Governor, Room 212, Oklahoma City OK 73105 or visit the "Contact the Governor" section of my website, www.governor.ok.gov.

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