Looking for copies of federal, state, or local tax forms? Need some tax planning guides? Want to locate places that offer assistance in filling out tax forms? The Library has a wide range of resources that can help answer these questions—and more.
Tax Forms
The Information and Reference Department has an extensive collection of current copies of most federal individual tax forms, either for free distribution or for photocopying. In addition to federal forms, the department distributes Ohio and City of Cincinnati tax forms. Most of the Library’s tax forms are for individuals only, but selected forms for corporations, small businesses, and non-profit organizations are also available
During tax season, selected copies of current tax forms are available for both reproduction and free distribution at all branch libraries. All library agencies offer free Internet access to government tax agencies. Additional tax websites are listed in the Taxes subject area of the Library’s Government Resources webpage.
Free Tax Assistance
VITA Service
During tax season, IRS-trained volunteers from the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program help individuals complete their tax forms. The VITA service is free and provided to individuals with incomes less than $48,279 per year who file the 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ federal form. For these taxpayers, volunteers will also assist in State of Ohio returns. All forms filed by the VITA volunteers are filed electronically. VITA service is available 9:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. on Saturdays from January 30 through April 10, in Room 2A of the Main Library.
In addition, VITA volunteers from the local accounting firm Ernst & Young will work side-by-side with University of Cincinnati Accounting majors to prepare the tax returns of individuals with incomes less than $48,279 per year who file the 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ federal form. This service will be available four Saturdays only: February 6, February 13, April 3, and April 10, in the Computer Training Room on the 3rd floor of the Main Library.
AARP Service
The Library also offers free tax assistance from American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) volunteers. The AARP service takes place on Fridays from 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. from January 29 –April 9 in Room 2A of the Main Library. The service is for taxpayers 50 and over. For these taxpayers, volunteers will also assist in State of Ohio returns. Returns prepared by AARP volunteeers are filed electronically.
The VITA and AARP tax assistance services are by appointment only. For details or to schedule an appointment, contact the Information and Reference Department at 513-369-6900. Walk-ins cannot be accepted.
Tax Law and Regulation
The complete U.S. Internal Revenue Code is located in Title 26 of the United States Code, available in a paper copy in the Information and Reference Department. The IRS Code is also available online.
Internal Revenue Service regulations are also available in paper in the Information and Reference Department and online in Title 26 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Did you know that the origin of the U.S. income tax on individuals dates back to 1862 and that April 15 has not always been the filing deadline? More tax trivia, courtesy of the Library of Congress, is available at the History of the US Income Tax.
Any Other Questions?
Call (513-369-6900) or email the Information and Reference Department and a librarian will be happy to assist you!
