Resource Category: Guides

Guide for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) Holders

Get your questions about Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) answered.
Young woman on laptop filing taxes with man looking at screen

Understanding IRS Mailed Notifications

Learn about common reasons for IRS letters, steps you can take if you need to respond, and what you can do if you’ve misplaced your notice.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Online Self-Filing

Learn how to file your taxes on your own through MyFreeTaxes.org using free, safe, accurate tax-filing software.
Self Filling

State and Federal Payment Relief Options

Explore different options to set up a payment plan or potentially reduce your tax debt with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or Franchise Tax Board (FTB).

Need More Time to File? Here’s How to Request a Tax Extension

Everything you need to know about tax extensions and how you can use our free tax filing software to request an extension online.

Claiming IHSS as Earned Income

Learn when to report tax-exempt IHSS income to the Internal Revenue Service and how to do so. 

Tax Season Readiness Toolkit

Equip yourself with the tools you need to file your taxes and claim tax credits.

Understanding Tax Credits

Explore the thousands of dollars in state and federal tax credits you may be eligible for by filing your taxes.
Notebook with tax credit sign on a table. Business concept.

Tax Terminology

An A-Z guide of commonly-used terms that may be helpful to reference when filing your taxes.
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Reconstructing Tax Records

Learn how you can request copies of previously filed tax returns.

How To File an Amendment After Claiming MCTR As Taxable Income

If you claimed the MCTR as taxable income on your return, you may have overpaid tax to the IRS.

How to Apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

Learn how to submit an application for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

How to Create an Online IRS Account

Learn how to create an online account with the IRS.

How to Fix Your Return and Claim Past Credits

Watch video tutorials to learn how to fix a mistake on your California or federal tax return.
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How to Use Your Refund

Some tips for helping you achieve financial success.
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Writing Off Child Care Expenses

Learn how you can maximize your tax refund by writing off child care expenses.
United Ways of California Writing Off Child Care Expenses

Writing Off College Expenses

Learn how college students can maximize their tax refund by writing off education-related expenses.
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