IRS Publication 3676-A Vietnamese – Are you a Vietnamese-speaking taxpayer looking for reliable, no-cost help with your taxes? IRS Publication 3676-A (Vietnamese Version) is an essential resource that outlines how IRS-certified volunteers can assist you through programs like Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). Updated in October 2024, this publication provides clear guidance on free tax preparation services tailored for qualifying individuals. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about accessing these services in 2026, including eligibility, what to expect, and how to get started.
What Is IRS Publication 3676-A Vietnamese?
IRS Publication 3676-A, titled “IRS Certified Volunteers Providing Free Tax Preparation (Vietnamese Version),” is a bilingual document designed to inform Vietnamese-speaking communities about free tax help options. Available as a free PDF download from the official IRS website (https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p3676av.pdf), it details the scope of services offered by certified volunteers at VITA and TCE sites. These programs have been helping underserved populations for decades, with VITA starting in 1969 to support low- and moderate-income individuals, including those with limited English proficiency.
The publication emphasizes that all volunteers are IRS-certified after passing rigorous tax law training and quality reviews to ensure accurate return preparation. It’s particularly useful for Vietnamese Americans who may prefer resources in their native language, making complex tax information more accessible.
Overview of the VITA and TCE Programs
The VITA program focuses on providing free basic tax return preparation for people earning $69,000 or less annually, individuals with disabilities, and limited English speakers. TCE, on the other hand, specializes in assisting seniors aged 60 and older, addressing retirement-specific issues like pensions. Both programs are funded through IRS grants—in 2026, the IRS awarded $53 million to 315 VITA and 48 TCE organizations to expand these services nationwide.
These initiatives operate at community centers, libraries, schools, and other convenient locations. Services include electronic filing (e-file), which is promoted as fast, accurate, secure, and simple. Some sites even offer self-preparation options with volunteer guidance or assistance for foreign students and scholars.
Eligibility Criteria for Free Tax Help
To qualify for VITA services in 2026 (for your 2025 tax return), your household income should generally be $69,000 or less. Priority is given to:
- Low- to moderate-income families
- People with disabilities
- Limited English proficient taxpayers, including Vietnamese speakers
- Seniors (via TCE for those 60+)
Note that self-employed individuals with business expenses over $50,000 or rental income may not qualify for full services. Eligibility can vary by site, so it’s best to check ahead.
Services Provided by IRS-Certified Volunteers
According to Publication 3676-A, volunteers can prepare a wide range of returns, including:
- Wages, salaries, and tips (Form W-2)
- Interest and dividends (Forms 1099-INT, 1099-DIV)
- Retirement income (Forms 1099-R, SSA-1099)
- Limited self-employment income (Forms 1099-NEC, 1099-K; Schedule C with restrictions)
- Education credits (Form 1098-T)
- Child tax credits, earned income credits, and premium tax credits (Form 1095-A)
- Applications for Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN; Form W-7)
- Prior year and amended returns (limited)
However, they will not handle complex items like:
- Schedule C with net losses or depreciation
- Complex capital gains/losses (Schedule D)
- Casualty or disaster losses
- Certain child unearned income forms (8615, 8814)
For unlisted items, consult a volunteer or professional preparer.
What Documents Do You Need to Bring?
Preparation goes smoothly when you’re organized. Publication 3676-A lists essential items:
- Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, etc.) for you and your spouse
- Social Security cards or ITIN documents for all family members
- Birth dates for everyone on the return
- Last year’s tax return copy
- All Forms W-2, 1099s, and 1095-A (if applicable)
- Details on deductions, credits, and childcare expenses (including provider Tax ID)
- Bank account info for direct deposit
For joint filers, both spouses must attend.
How to Find a VITA or TCE Site Near You
Locating help is easy. Use the IRS VITA/TCE Locator Tool at https://freetaxassistance.for.irs.gov/s/sitelocator or call 800-906-9887. For TCE, try the AARP Tax-Aide locator at https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations.html or 888-227-7669 (January-April). Sites may have limited hours, and priority for seniors—patience is appreciated as wait times can occur.
Many organizations, like the International Rescue Committee, offer appointments from late January to mid-April 2026. Check for Vietnamese language support at your local site.
Benefits of Using Free Tax Preparation Services
Beyond saving money on preparer fees, these programs ensure accuracy and help maximize refunds through credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). In 2024, only a fraction of eligible taxpayers used VITA/TCE, leaving millions in potential refunds unclaimed. Plus, e-filing reduces errors and speeds up processing.
For Vietnamese communities, the tailored publication makes navigating U.S. taxes less daunting, promoting compliance and financial well-being.
If you’re ready to file your 2025 taxes in 2026, download IRS Publication 3676-A Vietnamese today and connect with a certified volunteer. For more details, visit IRS.gov or consult the resources above. Remember, professional help is recommended for complex situations.