IRS Launches $53 Million Grant Program to Fund Free Tax Help Nationwide
The Internal Revenue Service has officially opened applications for its Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) grant programs, inviting organizations across the United States to apply from May 1 through May 31, 2026. These government-backed grants fund free federal tax return preparation and counseling for America’s older adults and underserved communities.
With a combined $53 million on the line — including $12 million allocated to TCE and $41 million targeted for VITA programs in 2026 — the IRS is doubling down on expanding support for vulnerable taxpayers who might struggle to afford or access professional tax assistance.
Critical Free Services for Delaware and Nationwide
IRS CEO Frank J. Bisignano emphasized the programs’ vital roles: “The VITA program, which has served for more than 50 years, supports underserved populations struggling to manage complex tax filings.” He added, “The TCE program offers specialized help for Americans aged 60 and older, focusing on pensions and retirement-related tax issues.”
Through these initiatives, taxpayers in Delaware and across the country who face financial barriers can secure expert help without cost. This is especially crucial for seniors and low-income earners navigating increasingly complex tax codes.
How and When to Apply
Organizations seeking to provide free tax assistance through these grants can submit applications via Grants.gov from May 1 to May 31, 2026. The funding supports grants for up to three years, enabling sustained outreach and services.
The IRS provides extensive resources for prospective applicants, including detailed guidelines and application instructions at the official IRS website under “VITA and TCE grants.” Interested groups are urged to review:
- Publication 1101: TCE Program Management Guidelines
- Publication 4671: VITA Grant Program Overview and Application
- Publication 6085: TCE Funding Opportunity Notice
- Publication 6086: VITA Funding Opportunity Notice
Programs with Proven Impact
The Tax Counseling for the Elderly program, created in 1978, focuses on individuals aged 60 and older with tax issues around pensions and retirement plans. Meanwhile, the VITA initiative, originally started in 1969 with grant supplementation added in 2007, expands IRS volunteer-assisted tax preparation in urban and rural underserved areas.
VITA also emphasizes volunteer training and increased electronic filing to boost accuracy and efficiency, a crucial factor as digital tax filing continues growing. These programs have consistently reduced filing errors and increased refunds delivered to hard-to-reach populations.
What This Means for Delawareans
Delawareans, especially seniors and residents with limited access to paid tax professionals, stand to benefit immediately from locally provided tax prep assistance funded by these grants. Nonprofits, community groups, and municipal programs can now secure federal dollars to help tens of thousands navigate filing season with confidence and no out-of-pocket cost.
Experts advise eligible organizations in Delaware to prepare their applications now to leverage these critical funds when the window opens. Successful grantees can strengthen taxpayer support well into the next three tax seasons, amplifying help for those most in need locally and nationwide.
Next Steps and How to Stay Updated
The IRS will review all grant applications submitted by the May 31 deadline and award funding later in 2026. Organizations awarded grants will receive technical support and training to ensure high-quality, accurate tax preparation.
Taxpayers interested in free assistance can monitor local community announcements or visit IRS resources for upcoming VITA or TCE site locations as the 2027 filing season approaches.
“These programs embody our commitment to equitable access to tax services and empowering taxpayers through trusted support,” said IRS CEO Frank J. Bisignano.
With millions in federal funding at stake and a strict application deadline, the clock is ticking for nonprofit groups and tax service providers looking to make a difference in Delaware and across the United States.
