Note: The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes and should not be considered tax or financial advice. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor.

Tax season can be stressful for anyone, but it can be especially confusing for seniors and caregivers managing retirement income, Social Security, and medical deductions. Each year, older adults are also among the most frequent targets of tax scams and identity theft.

Knowing the key deadlines, where to find help, and how to avoid scams can make tax season much easier. This article highlights important 2026 tax deadlines, free tax preparation services in Middle Tennessee, and common tax scams targeting seniors.

Important 2026 Tax Deadlines

For most taxpayers filing returns for the 2025 tax year, these are the key dates to remember per the IRS:

• January 31, 2026: Employers must send W-2 forms and many 1099 forms.
• April 15, 2026 (Tax Day): Deadline to file your federal tax return or request an extension, and the deadline to pay any taxes owed to the IRS.
• October 15, 2026: Extended filing deadline if you requested an extension.

Tip: Filing electronically with direct deposit is the fastest way to receive a refund. Most refunds arrive within 21 days.

Tips for Helping an Elderly Loved One File Taxes

If you’re assisting a parent, grandparent, or older relative during tax season, a little preparation goes a long way.

• Start gathering documents early: Collect items such as:
  • Social Security statements
  • W-2 or 1099 forms
  • Retirement account statements
  • Last year’s tax return

• Protect personal information: Avoid sending Social Security numbers or tax documents over unsecured email.

• Check for deductions or credit: Some seniors may qualify for deductions related to medical expenses, property taxes, or charitable contributions.

• Ask for help:  whether you want someone to start from the beginning with you or you would appreciate confirmation that you’ve compiled the right documents and are ready to file, lean into your community. Manana Helpers can support you at any step of the process. There are free programs like VITA and AARP Tax-Aide.

Helpful Tax Resources for Middle Tennessee Seniors

Many older adults qualify for free tax preparation services through nonprofit organizations and IRS-supported programs. These programs are especially helpful for seniors filing returns that include Social Security benefits, pension income, retirement account withdrawals, and/or medical deductions. Moreover, they help ensure taxpayers can file safely, avoid scams, and receive the refunds they deserve.

Government Resources

IRS Free File

The IRS Free File program allows eligible taxpayers to prepare and file their federal tax returns for free using guided tax software through trusted partners. Many households with adjusted gross income below about $89,000 can qualify to use these free tools. This option can be especially helpful for seniors who want step-by-step guidance through the filing process without paying tax preparation fees. 

IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool

After filing a tax return, taxpayers can track the status of their refund using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. The tool allows taxpayers to see the progress of their return through three stages: Return Received, Refund Approved, Refund Sent. Refund information typically becomes available within about 24 hours after e-filing, or several weeks after mailing a paper return. To check a refund status, taxpayers need Social Security number or ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount from the tax return. 

Legal Assistance

Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands

The Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands provides free legal assistance to eligible residents across a large portion of the state. They may be able to help with:

• Tax disputes and IRS notices
• Financial exploitation or fraud targeting seniors
• Identity theft issues
• Consumer protection matters

The organization serves many counties throughout Middle Tennessee and often partners with community organizations to provide legal clinics and educational resources.

Free tax help for qualifying taxpayers

IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): 

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free tax preparation from IRS-certified volunteers. These volunteers can help ensure returns are filed accurately and that eligible households receive tax credits they may qualify for. Appointments typically run from late January through April. Many VITA locations operate across Middle Tennessee through community organizations such as United Way, Middle Tennessee State University, or local libraries and community centers.

Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)

Another excellent resource is the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program, designed specifically for taxpayers age 60 and older. These volunteers specialize in retirement-related tax issues and many TCE services are offered through AARP Tax-Aide programs, which operate at senior centers, libraries, and community centers. These programs are free and highly trusted, making them a great option for seniors who want guidance from trained volunteers.

Tax Scams that Target Seniors

Tax season is also one of the most common times for financial scams targeting older adults. Fraudsters often pose as government agencies or tax preparers to steal personal information.

Here are some scams to watch out for:

• Fake IRS Phone Calls: Scammers call pretending to be the IRS and demand immediate payment. The IRS does not call taxpayers demanding payment or threatening arrest.
• Email or Text “Refund” Scams: You may receive a message claiming you are owed a large refund and asking you to click a link. These messages are often attempts to steal Social Security numbers or bank information.
• Fraudulent Tax Preparer: Some scammers advertise tax preparation services but file false returns or steal refunds.Always verify that your tax preparer has a valid IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN).
• Identity Theft Tax Fraud: Criminals sometimes file tax returns using stolen Social Security numbers before the real taxpayer files. Warning signs include receiving a tax notice about a return you did not file and/or being told a return has already been submitted in your name.

We’re Here to Help You Feel Prepared

Tax season doesn’t have to be overwhelming for seniors or their families. With trusted resources and awareness of common scams, older adults in Middle Tennessee can navigate tax filing with confidence.

If you or a loved one needs a little extra help this tax season, consider reaching out to Manana – call/text (615) 212-9609 or Send Us A Message

A little preparation today can prevent stress and financial risk later.