Low- and moderate-income workers, including veterans, can get free tax help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Call 800/906-9887 to locate the nearest VITA site.

The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program provides free tax help to people age 60 and older. To find the location, dates and hours of the closest TCE site, call the IRS at 800/829-1040 or call AARP’s Tax Aide program, 888/227-7669.

The IRS.gov Web site is the best source for additional information and answers to questions regarding the stimulus payments. The site will soon have an online tool which will allow taxpayers to calculate the amount of their advance payment and to check on the status of their specific payment.

Be very careful of scam artists. The IRS will never call or email you asking for financial information, and you are not required to use a particular preparer to claim your check. If you need help, contact one of the authorized locations mentioned above.