WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel today encouraged constituents to take advantage of the free tax preparation services available through the Internal Revenue Service's Free File program. Since 2003, IRS Free File has partnered with Free File Alliance, a group of leading commercial tax software companies committed to providing free access to commercial tax preparation software to 70 percent of Americans. Taxpayers with a 2011 Adjusted Gross Income of $57,000 or less may utilize the program to prepare and e-file their federal tax returns at no cost.

"I am pleased that the IRS continues to make filing taxes free, simple and accessible for millions of American families already strapped for time and money," said Rangel. "I encourage everyone in our Manhattan Congressional District and across the country to take advantage of these great services readily available."

Taxpayers must go to the IRS Free File website — www.irs.gov/freefile —and click on the “Free File” icon on the right side of the screen. Users can access and choose from a list of Free File Alliance member companies that best fits their needs, or utilize the “help me find a company” tool. After selecting a tax software company, users will be transferred to the company's website to prepare and electronically file their federal income tax returns. The service is also available in Spanish.

Free File Alliance member companies have continually worked with the IRS to strengthen the Free File program. A 2009 IRS survey showed 96 percent of users found Free File easy to use, while 98 percent would recommend the program to others.

"As families are struggling make ends meet, the government is doing its part to make filing taxes less cumbersome and to save the American taxpayer more money," added Rangel. "I also urge my constituents to claim the tax benefits they are entitled to."

Also available on the Congressman's website is the Rangel Tax Prep Guide which is a tool to help people prepare their tax returns and learn about various tax credits and resources.

For more information about the Free File Alliance, visit www.freefilealliance.org.