IRS launches critical grant applications to fund free tax assistance programs for 2026
The Internal Revenue Service has officially opened applications for its Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) grant programs with a May 1 through May 31 window in 2026. These grants fund free federal tax preparation services aimed at supporting older Americans and underserved communities nationwide—offering vital relief just as tax season approaches.
In a statement emphasizing the urgent need for ongoing support, IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said, “The VITA program, which has been around for more than 50 years, provides help to America’s underserved populations, while the TCE program offers specialized assistance for older Americans related to pensions and retirement plans.”
More than $53 million awarded last year to bolster free tax help
Last year, the IRS committed over $53 million in grants—allocating $12 million for TCE programs and $41 million for VITA initiatives. These funds enable organizations to offer free tax return preparation, a lifeline for seniors and low-income taxpayers who often face complexities filing their returns.
The grant funding lasts for up to three years, helping organizations expand volunteer training, enhance electronic filing capabilities, and increase accuracy rates at service sites nationwide. The VITA program, founded in 1969, focuses on reaching urban and rural taxpayers with limited access to paid tax services. Meanwhile, the TCE program, established in 1978, concentrates on seniors aged 60 and above, often assisting with intricate pension and retirement tax issues.
Applications open May 1–31 on Grants.gov
Eligible nonprofits, community groups, and other organizations interested in applying for the annual grant cycle must submit their applications via Grants.gov between May 1 and May 31, 2026. The IRS provides detailed support and program information on its official website to guide potential grantees through the application and management process.
This funding window is a critical opportunity for organizations nationwide, including Kentucky-based groups, to secure resources for expanding free tax help services in their communities. Increased funding means more taxpayers can avoid costly professional fees and reduce filing errors in their returns.
Why this matters now to Kentucky and the U.S.
For many taxpayers in Kentucky and across the U.S., free tax preparation programs help bridge gaps created by financial hardship or complexity around retirement income. With inflationary pressures and growing economic challenges, the demand for trustworthy, no-cost tax assistance is expected to surge as tax season approaches.
The IRS grants ensure that the people who need help most are not left behind each filing season. From Kentucky seniors navigating Social Security and pension benefits to low-income families in Appalachia or urban centers, these programs provide critical support where it matters most.
Next steps for communities and applicants
Organizations should mark their calendars for the May application period and review IRS materials including:
- Publication 1101 – Application Package and Guidelines for TCE Program
- Publication 4671 – VITA Grant Program Overview and Application Instructions
- Publication 6085 – TCE Notice of Funding Opportunity
- Publication 6086 – VITA Notice of Funding Opportunity
The IRS’s proactive funding approach reaffirms its commitment to support vulnerable taxpayers with professional help at no cost. Kentucky nonprofits and tax assistance groups looking to increase their community impact must act fast to secure grant funding available only through this limited submission window.
Frank J. Bisignano, IRS CEO: “Tax Counseling for the Elderly and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance programs provide invaluable, free assistance to taxpayers in need.”
Stay tuned to Kentucky Insider for updates on grant winners and expanding tax help programs across the Commonwealth and the nation.
