If you earned $73,000 or less in 2021 you can file your income tax return for free.

And if you earned $58,000 or less, getting help to file your taxes is also free for most people — through the KC Metro Tax Coalition.

Here’s how to get started:

• To file your taxes online on your own, go to myfreetaxes.com.

• Do you want free help? Call 2-1-1 and ask for free tax assistance. A scheduler with the United Way of Greater Kansas City will make an appointment at your choice of several volunteer sites in the Kansas City area. You will have in-person and virtual options.

• The Salvation Army at 101 W. Linwood Blvd. is scheduling tax assistance appointments for every Saturday through February. Call 816-756-2769 weekdays between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. to schedule a visit.

Interested in volunteering or donating?

Go to: kcmetrofreetaxes.org

Here are documents you will need:

Volunteer tax assistants can help identify needed documents, but gathering materials ahead of time that apply to your situation will speed the process, including getting an IRS refund.

• Photo ID

• Social Security cards for taxpayer, spouse and dependents, plus know their birthdates.

• W-2 forms, 1099 forms or other documents reporting wages or other income.

• Interest and dividend statements from banks.

• If your household received advanced child tax credit payments in 2021, you will need IRS letter 6419 (see important notice below).

• A copy of the front page of your 2020 and 2019 federal tax returns, if available.

• If you want to directly deposit your tax refund: Have a copy of the routing and account numbers of your bank account.

• If you paid for daycare services: Have information on amount paid and your daycare provider’s tax identifying number such as Social Security number or business employer identification number.

• If you had marketplace health insurance (ObamaCare) at anytime during 2021, IRS Form 1095-A.

• Certain senior citizens and people with disabilities who are renters may qualify for a Missouri Property Tax Credit. To claim the credit, bring a copy of Form 5674 signed by your landlord.

• For more documentation questions, review the KC Metro Tax Coalition’s list: Instructions for your appointment.

Important notice to households that received advanced child tax credit payments in 2021:

Most families that had previously filed tax returns and who had children under the age of 18 automatically received advance child tax credits in 2021. The IRS is in the process of sending a letter (IRS Letter 6491) to every household that received payments. This information is required for filing 2021 income tax returns. If you lose your letter or do not receive one, go to the Child Tax Credit Update Portal.

Also note that child tax credits can be claimed by only one household. If more than one parent or caregiver filing separately claim the credit, then the filing process, including getting an IRS refund, will get delayed.