VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance)
Offers free tax help to people who earn under a certain amount, seniors, or those with disabilities.
Check United Way of Greater Atlanta for VITA sites near you.

Georgia State Tax Basics

Along with your federal return, Georgia requires a state income tax return if you:

Live in Georgia full-time or part-time

Earn income from a Georgia employer

Own a business in Georgia

You’ll file using Form 500 through the Georgia Department of Revenue at dor.georgia.gov.

What You Need to File

Here’s a quick checklist to bring to your appointment or have ready if filing online:

✅ Photo ID
✅ Social Security numbers (you + dependents)
✅ W-2s, 1099s, or self-employment income
✅ Proof of deductions (education, childcare, mortgage, etc.)
✅ Last year’s tax return (if available)
✅ Direct deposit info for your refund

How to Maximize Your Tax Refund

Here are a few tips to keep more of your money:

Claim all eligible credits — like the Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Credit (EITC), or Education Credits.

Deduct expenses — if you're self-employed, don’t forget home office, mileage, supplies, etc.

File early — it reduces the risk of refund delays or identity theft.

Use direct deposit — it's the fastest way to get your refund.

Ask a pro — if you have multiple income sources, investments, or a business, using a tax preparer can actually save you money.

Specialty Tax Services Tailored to Complex Business Needs

If your business tax situation is complicated, Atlanta offers specialized services to address unique challenges:

Multi-state tax filings for businesses operating in multiple jurisdictions.

Real estate and investment income tax strategies for property owners and investors.

Business succession planning to prepare for ownership transitions.

Employee benefits and compensation planning to maximize tax efficiency.

These specialized services ensure your business is compliant with all tax laws while taking full advantage of deductions, credits, and incentives.