File your tax returns for free

Haven't filed your state and federal taxes yet? A new program called "Free File Alliance" could help you do it at no cost.

Posted 6:30 p.m. Mar 4, 2010 — Updated 1:07 a.m. Mar 5, 2010

RALEIGH, N.C. — Gov. Beverly Perdue wants people to know about a program in the state that allows some people to file their state and federal taxes electronically at no cost.

It's called "Free File Alliance," and about half of North Carolina taxpayers are eligible.

Five companies offer the service in the state and eligibility requirements differ by company. (Find out if you're eligible.)

Perdue was at the Cameron Village Regional Library in Raleigh promoting the public-private partnership Thursday morning. She said that the service is aimed at helping hundreds of thousands state residents who are lower- or moderate-income taxpayers, students, seniors or active-duty military personnel.

"Usually, I pay $50 per person, so if I join with my wife, it's $100," said Army Staff Sgt. Steve Mojica. "Due to the fact that it's free, that money was saved in my pocket this time, so that helped out a lot."

There is also a "Low Cost" electronic filing program for individuals who don't qualify for the free program.

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