Below are several free tax filing resources available for the 2025 tax season to New Jersey residents with low or moderate income. Please note: These resources are intended for households with straightforward income situations (such as W-2 income, unemployment, or basic credits). Individuals with complex income, self-employment, rental properties, or other advanced tax matters should consult a professional tax preparer or accountant.

Free Online Tax Filing Options for 2025:

• IRS Free File: Guided Tax Software – Available for individuals with Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $89,000 or less (limit subject to IRS updates). Choose from trusted IRS partner companies that guide you step-by-step through tax preparation using an interview format. Some providers also offer free state tax filing. To review options and eligibility, visit: apps.irs.gov/app/freeFile
• IRS Free File: Fillable Forms - Available to taxpayers of all income levels. This option provides electronic versions of IRS paper forms and is best for taxpayers comfortable preparing their own returns. State returns are not included. Visit: www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms

Free Volunteer Assistance for 2025 Tax Season:

For those with very simple income situations who need additional help filing their taxes, free in-person and virtual tax preparation assistance is available through IRS-certified volunteers.

• United Way of Northern NJ - vita.unitedwaynnj.org
  For households earning $89,000 or less. Not available for businesses or landlords.

• AARP Foundation Tax-Aide - aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp-taxaide
  For adults age 50+ with low to moderate income. AARP membership is not required.

Important Tax Benefits to Consider

Even if you are not required to file taxes, submitting a tax return may unlock important financial benefits.

• Earned Income Credit (EITC) - Eligible taxpayers may receive a refund even if no taxes are owed. A tax return must be filed to receive this credit.

• NJ Easy Enrollment Health Insurance Program - New Jersey residents without health insurance can indicate their interest in coverage when filing their state tax return by completing the NJ-EZ Enroll Form. This may trigger a special enrollment opportunity through Get Covered New Jersey. LRRC health insurance navigators are available to assist with applications and enrollment questions.

Trump Accounts: New Savings Option for Children

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), passed last year, introduced a new tax-advantaged savings vehicle for children known as "Trump Accounts". Trump Accounts are a new type of Individual Retirement Account (IRA) designed for children up to age 17.

Key Features

• Funds grow tax-deferred until withdrawn
• No earned income is required to contribute
• Contributions are not tax-deductible
• Employers may contribute to employees’ children’s accounts as a tax-free benefit
• Annual contribution limit: $5,000 per child (from all combined sources)

Children born between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2028 may qualify for a $1,000 government opening deposit. To qualify, child must be a U.S. citizen and have a valid Social Security number.

Additional private and employer-based contribution programs may be available. Availability may be limited and offered on a first-come basis.

Withdrawal of funds is generally restricted until age 59½. Early withdrawals may be subject to income tax and a 10% penalty, with certain exceptions (such as higher education, first-time home purchase, birth of a child, or qualifying medical expenses). Families may pre-register online at: https://form.trumpaccounts.gov/

The form requires:

• Section 1: Responsible adult’s legal name, Social Security number, and date of birth
• Section 2: Contact information
• Section 3: Child’s legal name, Social Security number, date of birth, and relationship
• Section 4: Required IRS consent and digital signature

Up to two children may be added per form.

Most applicants can complete the form in under five minutes.

Government follow-up instructions on final account setup are expected later this year.