State Representative Jim Crawford (D-35th District) recently encouraged constituents to take advantage of free tax preparation services available through the IRS Free File program.

The IRS Free File has offered free access to leading commercial tax preparation software to low-moderate income taxpayers since 2003. This year, every taxpayer with a 2010 Adjusted Gross Income of $58,000 or less may visit the website, www.IRS.gov/efile, to prepare, complete and file their federal and state tax returns at no cost online.

Rep. Crawford said, "This is a great opportunity to use IRS Free File tax preparation software so you can easily prepare and e-file your federal and state taxes at no cost."

Taxpayers may visit the IRS website, www.IRS.gov, and click on the "Free File" icon. Users will find a list of Free File Alliance member companies and may either choose the one that fits their needs or utilize the "help me find a company" tool. After selecting a company, taxpayers will be transferred to the company's website to prepare, complete and electronically file their federal income tax returns. Three of the 19 participating software companies also offer services in Spanish.

"Please make sure your wireless network is secure, your antivirus software is up-to-date and establish a unique password," Rep. Crawford said. "Before preparing and filing their taxes online, people should make sure their computers and networks are secure."

The State of Connecticut is among 38 states which allow taxpayers the ability to also file their state returns from the IRS site. Just click on the link marked "Federal/State e-file options" in the lower right hand side of the www.IRS.gov/efile page.