Bring Bank Account & Routing Numbers

The IRS no longer issues paper checks and needs this information to deposit any refunds directly into your bank account. 

Bring Identification

• A valid, unexpired, government issued photo ID like a driver's license or passport for the main tax filer and if applicable, spouse.
• For everyone who will be listed on the tax return:
  • Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) cards or letters containing a 9-digit number issued by the IRS for tax purposes to individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Numbers and/or
  • Social Security Cards. If you can't bring it, here are other options:
    • If you are receiving Social Security benefits, you can show us your 1099-SSA form from this year instead.
    • If our Fremont Family Resource Center VITA site prepared your taxes last year, we can refer to it to verify Social Security numbers. Self-prepared tax returns or those done somewhere else cannot be used for this.

Married Filing Jointly

• If you are Married Filing Jointly, both you and your spouse should attend.
• If this is not possible, bring the IDs and Social Security/ITIN documents for both spouses to the appointment.
• We will verify the identity of the spouse not present by video calling them.
• Please inform the Greeter and the Intake Specialist that you could not both attend.

Bring Applicable Documents

Other Supporting Documents (If Applicable)

• Records of charitable contributions, such as receipts or letters
• List of medical expenses
• Property tax bills
• Clean energy, solar, or electric vehicle credits (many will expire in 2025)
• DMV registration form
• Childcare or Dependent Care Expenses. Include the total paid and the provider's name, address, phone number, and SSN or tax ID.

Self Employed & Gig Workers

• If you are self-employed, provide business income and expenses, including mileage log.
• Rideshare Drivers should provide their 1099-NEC, 1099-K and online Tax Summary page.
• If you plan to itemize deductions, provide a summary sheet that includes both the total amount and description of your expenses.

Process

1. A Greeter will make sure you brought your ID, and give you an intake sheet and liability form to complete.
2. An Intake Specialist will review your documents to confirm you qualify, and have everything needed to prepare your return. If anything is missing, we will not be able to prepare your tax return.
3. Then you will be in line to meet a Tax Preparer who will prepare your return.
4. A Quality Reviewer will review the return for completeness and accuracy.
5. You will be given the 8879 e-file authorization form. Signing this form for both Federal and California returns is required to e-file your tax return.
6. Once the review is completed and you have signed the forms, you will get a paper copy of your return.

Where's My Refund?

Go to the IRS’s Where’s My Refund website. You will need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) as well as specific information about your tax return.

Questions About Your Return

If you have questions about your tax return please contact your local IRS office directly.

Social Security & Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) Numbers

• The IRS never asks for personal or financial information through social media or text message. If someone contacts you this way claiming to be from the IRS, do not respond. Report the message directly to the IRS.
• Volunteers or staff will not ask you to provide your full Social Security number over the phone or through text. If you send us a text or leave us a voicemail, do not include your full Social Security number.
• If you are unsure why you are being asked to provide your Social Security number during your appointment at our FRC VITA site, please ask! We are happy to explain the process of preparing your taxes and why we need certain information.