STEP 01
Find the right help
Check what we cover, then choose the situation that sounds like yours. We’ll point you to booking or to our team.
Community powered. Always free.
A little help.
A lot of relief.
Taxes can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to figure them out alone. TerpTax offers free tax preparation for eligible students and community members.
Serving College Park and the surrounding community.
A fresh start.TerpTax ✳
✓ Gather your documents
✓ Meet a trained volunteer
✓ Take the next step with confidence
FREE TAX HELP
Real people.
Real help.
$0 fee.
Real help.
$0 fee.
$0Fee for eligible clients
IRS VITACertified volunteer program
[#]Returns filed last season
$[#]In refunds returned to clients
How it works
Less confusion.
Three simple steps.
Know where to start, what to prepare,
and how to reach our team.
STEP 02
Get your documents ready
Use the checklist below. Your appointment instructions will explain any additional documents needed.
STEP 03
Meet with TerpTax
Follow your booking confirmation for appointment details. Our volunteers prepare eligible returns under program supervision.
Know before you book
What we can help with.
TerpTax is a VITA program: many returns, but not every one.
Check here first so your appointment is a good fit.
Yes Usually within our scope
- Federal returns for individuals and families within VITA income limits
- Wages, salaries, and tips (Forms W-2)
- Interest and dividend income (Forms 1099-INT, 1099-DIV)
- Education credits and scholarship reporting
- Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, when you qualify
- Maryland state returns filed with the federal return
- Eligible nonresident returns for international students and scholars
Referral Outside our scope
- Business, partnership, or corporate returns
- Rental income, farm income, or complex investment activity
- Returns for a deceased taxpayer beyond simple cases
- Prior-year or amended returns, unless the team confirms capacity
- Representation in an audit or correspondence with the IRS
- Any return outside volunteer certification or program rules
Not sure where you fall? That’s normal. Email us a short description of your situation, without tax documents or Social Security numbers, and we’ll tell you honestly whether we can help.
Let’s get you started
Your situation.
Your next step.
You don’t need to know every tax term.
Just pick the one that fits best.
I’m a U.S. citizen or resident
Pick a time on our online calendar. You’ll get a confirmation with what to bring.
Book an appointment ↓I’m an international student or scholar
Visa status alone doesn’t decide your tax residency. Ask us which appointment fits and what to bring.
Ask the team ↗I’m not sure TerpTax can help
Send a general description of what you need and we’ll tell you before you book.
Ask about eligibility ↗I’d like to volunteer
Build real skills while helping people in your community.
Explore volunteering ↓Service availability depends on the filing season, eligibility, and the scope of our program.
When you email us, never include tax documents, account numbers, or Social Security numbers.
Pick a time
Book your appointment.
Choose a time that works for you.
You’ll get a confirmation with what to bring.
Loading available times…
Open the booking calendar ↗Calendar not loading? Book on Calendly in a new tab ↗
No times that work? Email us for the next available options.
A little preparation goes a long way
Bring the essentials.
A starting point for your appointment.
Your instructions will have the full list.
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Protect your information: do not email Social Security numbers or tax documents. Follow the secure document instructions provided by TerpTax.
Good questions. Clear answers.
Before you get started.
Is the service really free?
Yes. TerpTax provides free tax preparation for eligible clients within the scope of its VITA services.
Can international students get help?
TerpTax offers assistance with eligible nonresident returns. Tax residency depends on your individual circumstances and travel history. If you are unsure, contact the team before choosing an appointment.
How do I book an appointment?
Use “Book an appointment” at the top of the page to pick a time on our online calendar. You’ll get a confirmation with what to bring. If no times are open, email us for the next available options.
Can you prepare every type of return?
Services are limited by volunteer certification and program scope. Contact us about your situation before booking if you are unsure whether your return can be prepared.
Should I send my tax documents by email?
No. Use only the secure process specified by TerpTax. General email is for questions and coordination.
Learn something. Give something.
Make tax season
mean something.
Build practical skills while helping people in your community. TerpTax volunteers receive training and complete the required IRS certification for their role.
Ask about volunteering ↗A place to learn by doing.
- Develop tax preparation and communication skills
- Work alongside other student volunteers
- Help clients navigate an important financial task
Contact us for current recruitment dates, training requirements, and available roles.
We’re here to help
Still have a question?
Reach out before you book. We’ll help you find your next step.