IRS Form 15373 – IRS Forms, Instructions, Pubs 2026 – In today’s diverse society, accessing essential services like tax preparation shouldn’t be hindered by language barriers. The IRS recognizes this and provides tools to ensure everyone can fulfill their tax obligations easily. One such resource is IRS Form 15373, which promotes free tax help using over-the-phone interpreter services as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. This article explores what Form 15373 is, how it works, and why it’s a valuable asset for limited English proficient (LEP) taxpayers seeking free tax preparation.
What Is IRS Form 15373?
IRS Form 15373, titled “VITA/TCE Free Tax Preparation Using Over-the-Phone Interpreter (OPI) Services,” is essentially a promotional poster or sign designed for VITA and TCE sites. It serves as an advertisement to inform taxpayers that free tax preparation assistance is available in their preferred language. The form includes fields for the site name and address, along with the message “We can help you in your language.”
Revised in August 2022, this form is part of the IRS’s broader effort to support multilingual communities. It’s available as a downloadable PDF from the official IRS website, allowing VITA/TCE partners to customize and display it at their locations. The purpose of Form 15373 is to attract LEP individuals to these free services, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity in tax preparation.
Overview of VITA and TCE Programs
The VITA and TCE programs are IRS-sponsored initiatives that offer free basic tax return preparation to qualifying individuals. These programs are staffed by IRS-certified volunteers who help taxpayers navigate complex tax laws without any cost.
- VITA Program: Targets people earning $69,000 or less annually, individuals with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. It provides assistance in preparing tax returns, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- TCE Program: Focuses on seniors aged 60 and older, addressing retirement-related tax issues like pensions.
Both programs operate through community partners and emphasize quality, with services varying based on volunteer expertise at each site. Importantly, they include support for LEP taxpayers, making them ideal for non-native English speakers.
The Over-the-Phone Interpreter (OPI) Service Explained
At the heart of Form 15373’s promotion is the IRS’s Over-the-Phone Interpreter (OPI) service, a free tool that bridges language gaps during tax preparation. This federally funded program allows real-time interpretation in numerous languages, available 24/7 through virtual call centers.
The OPI service extends beyond just tax returns—it supports quality reviews, site visits, ITIN applications, financial education, and outreach on topics like the Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, and identity theft. For non-return preparation uses, partners must seek prior approval from their IRS relationship manager.
Languages include Spanish, Haitian Creole, Mandarin, Russian, Portuguese, Arabic, and many others—users can request any language by speaking its name or entering the first three letters. This service is integral to the SPEC (Stakeholder Partnerships, Education and Communication) business model, ensuring LEP taxpayers can comply with federal tax obligations confidently.
How to Use Over-the-Phone Interpreter Services at VITA/TCE Sites?
Using the OPI service is straightforward and integrated into the tax preparation process:
- A certified VITA/TCE volunteer contacts the taxpayer.
- The volunteer dials the toll-free OPI line at 1-877-384-4474 and merges the calls into a three-way conference.
- The volunteer enters their unique Personal Identification Number (PIN), obtained after completing annual OPI training.
- Select the language (e.g., press 1 for Spanish or 0 for others).
- Proceed with the session, securing the interpreter’s details.
- After the call, the volunteer logs the interaction on the OPI tracking sheet.
Volunteers and site coordinators must complete annual training via Link & Learn Taxes and submit weekly logs to their relationship manager, even if no usage occurred. This ensures accountability and helps reconcile usage with billing.
To find a site offering these services, visit the IRS’s Free Tax Prep Help locator tool or contact local community organizations. Displayed Form 15373 posters at sites signal availability of interpreter-assisted help.
Benefits of Using IRS Form 15373 and OPI Services
For LEP taxpayers, the combination of Form 15373 and OPI services offers numerous advantages:
- Accessibility: Breaks down language barriers, making tax preparation inclusive and stress-free.
- Cost Savings: Completely free, avoiding expensive professional tax services.
- Accuracy: Certified volunteers ensure returns are prepared correctly, reducing errors and audit risks.
- Comprehensive Support: Covers not just filing but also education on credits and refunds.
- Community Impact: Promotes compliance and brings economic benefits through refunds and savings.
These services are reliable and trusted, with all volunteers adhering to strict IRS standards.
Finding Free Tax Help Near You
To access VITA/TCE sites with OPI support, use the IRS locator at irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep. Look for sites displaying Form 15373 or inquire about interpreter services. For more details, email [email protected] or consult resources like Publication 5547 for OPI guidelines.
In conclusion, IRS Form 15373 plays a crucial role in making free tax preparation accessible to all, regardless of language. By leveraging the OPI service through VITA and TCE, taxpayers can file confidently and accurately. If you’re eligible, take advantage of these resources to simplify your tax season.