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So, you’re looking for money like all the rest of us. Have you tried the state? You may have some unclaimed property waiting on you.
Let’s clear something up first: When we talk about unclaimed property in this article, we’re talking about money: Bank accounts held by financial institutions and other businesses who have lost contact with you.
Searching for your own money won’t cost you a thing and we’ll touch on that a bit more later.
Search To Find Unclaimed Property In Georgia For FREE
Some types of unclaimed property include:
- Wages
- Savings accounts
- Customer refunds
- Accounts payable
- Insurance payments
- Shares of stock
- Escrow funds
- Royalties and contents from safe deposit boxes.
In Georgia, the overwhelming majority of personal property is referred to the state after five years of inactivity — of course there may be exemptions.
To find out if you have some unclaimed property in Georgia, you can go to the Georgia Department of Revenue website. But before you do, there’s two things you need to know:
- You will need to have the decedent’s name, Social Security Number and/or the estate’s Federal Employer Identification Number begin the search.
- You will be required to submit a printed Claim Form.
To find out if you have some unclaimed property in Georgia, click the link below:
These funds may be in the form of cash, stocks, bonds, securities, insurance benefits etc.
To make sure that you don’t lose track of your funds or property, it’s good to maintain accurate records for important documents like contracts, insurance policies, bank account numbers, stock certificates and more.
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Complete the Claim Form: Fill out the form with your personal details, such as your name, current address, and any relevant information about the property. You may need to prove your identity and ownership, so gather supporting documents like:
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A government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
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Proof of address (e.g., utility bill)
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Evidence linking you to the property (e.g., old bank statements, tax records, or Social Security number if applicable) If claiming on behalf of someone else (like a deceased relative or business), additional documents like a death certificate, will, or legal authorization may be required.
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Submit the Claim: Upload your completed form and documents online through the portal. Double-check everything to avoid delays.
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Wait for Processing: Once submitted, the Georgia Department of Revenue will review your claim. This typically takes 30 to 90 days, depending on the complexity and volume of claims. You can check your claim status online using the same website.
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Receive Payment: If approved, you’ll get a paper check mailed to the address you provided. Electronic payments aren’t available.
Final Word
There’s no time limit to claim most unclaimed money in Georgia (except for excess funds from abandoned vehicle sales, which have a one-year limit).Be cautious of scams—never pay a third party to find or claim your money, as the state offers this service for free.If you’ve lived in other states, check their unclaimed property databases too, as you might have money elsewhere.Up next: How to find your unclaimed money in Georgia for FREE
Are you trying to become more financially literate? Check out Money Mondays at AtlantaFi.com, where we’ll share strategies to save and make cash.
If saving money is something you’re serious about, AtlantaFi.com has a lot of resources to help you.Read more: -
The 2024 Dogwood Festival returns in Atlanta’s best park this weekend. Are you ready for some outdoors fun in the sun with live music, good food and vendors from all over?
There’s no doubt about it. The Dogwood Festival is one of Atlanta’s best festivals.
After 82 years, the Dogwood Festival still aims to inspire as thousands of people continue to converge to see artisans, eat authentic foods, listen to great music and have a good time. This year will be no different.
Dogwood Festival 2025: Everything You Need To Know
Along with an artists market, attendees will be treated to music from the Coca-Cola stage, international stage and a Party in the Park VIP experience with all the trimmings.
The second weekend of April, the Dogwood Festival is happening again in Midtown Atlanta and it’s free to the public. There will also be a Kids Village featuring arts & crafts, interactive make and take activities, face painting and more for all ages.
When Is The Dogwood Festival This Year?
The dates for this year’s festival are Friday, April 11 through Sunday, April 13, 2025. The times will be:
- Friday, April 11: noon to 9 p.m.
- Saturday, April 12: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Sunday, April 13: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Music Lineup
Friday, April 11
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025 – MAIN STAGE HEADLINERS
TIME PERFORMANCE MUSIC GENRE 4:00 – 6:00 PM HOUSE MUSIC Various Artists 6:00 – 7:00 PM NERO SIMON and the SUNSETTERS Coastal Americana 7:30 – 9:00 PM GIMME HENDRIX Jimi Hendrix Tribute Saturday, April 12
SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2025 – MAIN STAGE HEADLINERS
TIME BAND/ARTIST MUSIC GENRE 7:00 – 10:00 AM MIMOSA 5K – DJ CHOPS Party Band 2:30 – 3:15 PM GUITAR SHED Student Showcase 3:35 – 4:20 PM BRANDON MARSOLO & FRIENDS Guitar/Singer/Songwriter 4:40 – 5:40 PM THE JESSE WILLIAMS BAND Presented by Georgia Public Broadcasting Soul/Blues 6:00 – 7:00 PM TYLER NEAL Blues Guitar 7:30 – 9:00 PM VOX BRITANNIA British Rock Tribute Sunday, April 13
SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 2025 – MAIN STAGE HEADLINERS
TIME BAND/ARTIST MUSIC GENRE 1:15 – 2:00 PM JULIE GRIBBLE BAND Americana 2:20 – 3:05 PM LEFT ON BLUE Jazz/Blues 3:30 – 4:30 PM BOOM! TRIO ft LAVAHI Funk Soul 5:00 – 6:00 PM HUGHES TAYLOR Blues Rock The Dogwood Festival will have several music artists slated to perform every year. When we hear more, we will update you. On Saturday morning, there is a Mimosa 5K race as part of the event.
Is The Dogwood Festival Free?
The Dogwood Festival is typically a free event. But if you want to experience VIP treatment, there are tiers you can pay for.
$40 Standard VIP admission includes craft beer & wine tasting, access to VIP area overlooking the Coca-Cola Main Stage, private restroom trailer and a discounted cash bar. First come, first open seating (no holding seats). Lunch is NOT included.
$55 VIP Upgrade admission w/ Lunch includes ticket for lunch entree and side from Loaded Taco or Loaded Burger food truck, craft beer & wine tasting, access to VIP area overlooking the Coca-Cola Main Stage, private restroom trailer and a discounted cash bar.
$80 Platinum VIP Access w/ Lunch includes ticket for lunch entree and side from Loaded Taco or Loaded Burger food truck, craft beer & wine tasting, access to VIP area overlooking the Coca-Cola Main Stage, private restroom trailer PLUS 4 drink tickets from cash bar.
Buy VIP Dogwood Festival tickets.
Final Word
The Dogwood Festival is one of the city’s best free outdoors events, but there are some associated ticketed events
You can expect beautiful weather, great food and live music just like it’s been in years past. The Dogwood Festival will have a VIP Experience includes Food and Beer Tasting, Access to VIP tent, Private Restroom Trailers and Seating.
Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace
There are so many fun things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on!
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If you’ve ever heard the term “Lemon Pepper Wet,” you know that you’re in Atlanta. The phrase has become popularized in songs as well as Southern culture and it has to do with hot wings.
This article is your guide to all things lemon pepper wet in the city and will show you how you can experience this extraordinary flavor.
What Is Lemon Pepper Wet?
Lemon pepper wet is a reference to a particular style and flavor of chicken wings popularized in Georgia’s largest city.
Lemon Pepper wings traditionally come in the style of a dry rub or “dust” sprinkled over the wings. Wet refers to the sauce or gravy that the wings can be tossed in just before being sprinkled with lemon pepper.
Where To Get Lemon Pepper Wings In Atlanta
Here are the best places to get lemon pepper wings in Atlanta.
The Wing Bar ATL
494 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (404) 688-8009
Here’s what one customer says about The Wing Bar ATL.
Best Wings
463 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 872-8866
Here’s what one reviewer says about Best Wings. “”I went to this place and ordered a 10-piece lemon pepper chicken.. OMG when I say they are so good I doubled back to pick up two more orders and a Philly steak sandwich.”
Jamal’s Buffalo Wings
2001 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW suite 106, Atlanta, GA 30310 | (404) 221-0088
Here’s what one customer says about Jamal’s. “I asked for lemon pepper hot, and they were indeed HOT! I would describe them to others as lemon pepper wet. However you want to describe them, they were tasty. Maybe borderline too spicy for me, even though I tend to add spice to my food. Still enjoyable, though.”
Sumo Hibachi & Wings
3404 Clairmont Rd, Atlanta, GA 30319 | (678) 590-8888
Here’s what one reviewer says about Sumo Hibachi. “Lemon pepper wings and the steak hibachi are the best I have ever had! The lo mein has so much flavor and the sauce they use on the hibachi is amazing.”
Tandoori Pizza & Wing Co.
1197 Peachtree St NE Ste 150, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 228-7941
Here’s what one customer says about Tandoori Pizza & Wing Co. “My favorite was the buffalo lemon pepper wings! The pizza was really good too! The guy taking my order was patient and helped me decide which flavor to get. I would definitely bring my girlfriends back for a girls night!”Wings R Us
490 Whitehall St SW A, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 221-0509
“Lemon pepper wings!!! That’s all!” that’s what one customer had to say!
Final Bite
There’s few things better than ordering some lemon pepper wings on a weekend night in Atlanta. If you really want to stretch your palate, check out the new Atlanta restaurants that have recently opened. -
Who doesn’t love fresh fresh, both fried and baked as well as other delicacies from the sea? Well, there’s a festival happening in the heart of Atlanta that you won’t want to miss.
The Atlanta Seafood Festival is coming up this spring and it is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
When Is the Atlanta Seafood Festival?
The culinary extravaganza known as the Atlanta Seafood Festival is happening on Saturday, April 26 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Atlantic Station in Midtown.
You can expect freshly prepared seafood delights complemented perfectly by a selection of beer, wine and refreshing mimosas.
With more than 10 popular local restaurants, a souvenir cup and entertainment, the festival promises a feast for the senses like no other.
How To Get There
By Car: To access the Pinnacle Lot event entrance, park on the P2 level of the parking deck and exit straight ahead near Stairwell 2 out onto 20th street.
Walking: Take Stairwells 1, 2, 3 or 4 down to the P2 level of the parking deck. Exit out straight ahead onto 20th Street
Rideshare: Taking Lyft or Uber? Use this drop off location for the Pinnacle Lot:
241 20th Street Atlanta, GA 30363Is Atlanta a Festival City?
Atlanta is known as a festival city because of its vibrant and diverse lineup of events that celebrate music, culture, food, and the arts throughout the year. Here are a few key reasons why the city has earned this reputation:
Atlanta hosts festivals in every season, with something happening almost every weekend. From major music festivals to niche cultural events, the city’s festival calendar is always packed.
Atlanta has a rich musical heritage, and its festivals reflect that. Events like Music Midtown, ONE Musicfest, Shaky Knees, and the Atlanta Jazz Festival draw crowds from all over the country.
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Hooters, a sports bar known for its chicken wings and scantily clad waitresses, is in financial trouble.
The restaurant’s parent company, Hooters of America, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on March 31, 2025.
The company is using this process to restructure its $376 million debt and has plans to sell its 151 company-owned restaurants to a franchise group backed by its original founders.
While the bankruptcy process unfolds, Hooters intends to keep its restaurants operational, expecting to complete the deal and emerge from bankruptcy in three to four months with $35 million in financing from its existing lenders.
“With over 30 years of hands-on experience across the Hooters ecosystem, we have a profound understanding of our customers and what it takes to not only meet, but consistently exceed their expectations,” said Neil Kiefer, CEO of Hooters Inc., on behalf of the Buyer Group. “As we look toward the future, we are committed to restoring the Hooters brand back to its roots and simplifying HOA’s operations by adopting a pure franchise model that will maximize the potential for sustainable, long-term growth.”
Is Hooters Closing Any U.S. Locations?
No specific announcements have been made about permanent closures tied to this filing. However, the situation could evolve depending on the outcome of the sale and financial restructuring.
The bankruptcy filing follows months of speculation and preparations reported earlier this year, driven by challenges like declining foot traffic, rising costs, and a significant debt load, including $300 million in asset-backed bonds from 2021.
What Is the History of Hooters?
Hooters, the restaurant chain known for its casual dining and sports bar atmosphere, was founded on October 4, 1983, in Clearwater, Florida.
The concept was the brainchild of six businessmen: Lynn D. Stewart, Gil DiGiannantonio, Ed Droste, Billy Ranieri, Ken Wimmer, and Dennis Johnson.
The group aimed to create a place where they could enjoy good food, cold beer, and a fun, laid-back vibe—essentially, a spot they’d want to hang out at themselves.
The name “Hooters” came from a mix of playful inspiration and branding savvy. It’s a nod to the owl logo (with “hooters” being slang for an owl’s call) and a cheeky wink at the chain’s focus on attractive, scantily clad waitresses—later dubbed “Hooters Girls.”
The founders reportedly tossed around hundreds of name ideas before settling on this one, knowing it would stick in people’s minds. They weren’t wrong.
The first Hooters opened its doors with a simple menu: wings, burgers, sandwiches, and seafood, paired with a beachy, Florida vibe.
The wings, in particular, became a signature item, served with a variety of sauces that remain a draw today. The original location was a modest spot, but it quickly gained traction, fueled by its unapologetic blend of sex appeal and comfort food.
The founders had no grand franchise plans at first—they just wanted a successful local joint—but the concept took off.
By 1984, the chain started expanding through franchising, with new locations popping up across the U.S. The Hooters Girls became central to the brand, wearing the now-iconic uniform of white tank tops and orange shorts.
The chain peaked in the U.S. with over 400 locations by the early 2000s, though it’s since scaled back to around 300 domestically as of recent years.
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If you’re a last-minute person, filing your taxes can be a chore. The good news is that you can file an extension on your taxes and avoid paying a penalty. Keep reading to learn how to do it.
When Is Tax Day 2025?
Tax day is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. That’s the last day to file. But what if you need an extension? We’re going to show you how to do it. Never pay someone to file an extension for you, it’s free to do.
Millions of Americans fail to file their taxes annually, subjecting themselves to huge penalties that accrue interest. You don’t want to be like that.
If you need to file a last-minute extension, here’s what you need to do.
How To File Your Tax Extension Form for Free
Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can use Free File to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension.
- Filing this form gives you until Oct. 15 to file a return.
- To get the extension, you must estimate your tax liability on this form and should also pay any amount due.
Get An Extension When You Pay On Your Taxes
If you can only pay part of your tax bill, you can indicate that the payment is for an extension using Direct Pay, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), or a credit or debit card. This way you won’t have to file a separate extension form and you will receive a confirmation number for your records.
Extension Forms by Filing Status
Individuals
Special rules may apply if you are:
- Serving in the U.S. military in a combat zone or a qualified hazardous duty area
- Living outside the United States
Business and Corporations
The easiest way for criminals to steal sensitive data is simply to ask for it. IRS urges people to learn to recognize phishing emails, calls or texts that pose as familiar organizations such as banks, credit card companies or even the IRS. Keep sensitive data safe.
Final Word
Tax season is one of many times of the year when you need to be especially careful about your money moves. File an extension on your taxes to save your cash.
If you’re interested in making extra income, don’t miss How To Make Money At Home and How To Quarantine And Make Cash.
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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If you’ve ever wanted to work on a Tyler Perry production or in the movie industry in general, the Atlanta filmmaker is making it easier than it’s ever been to do so.
Tyler Perry Studios has an internship program – -the Dream Collective — that could be just the thing you to launch your career in film.
When Does The Tyler Perry Dream Collective Internship Program Start?
The Dream Collective program is currently active and has been since March 14, 2025. It will be open until the deadline, which is 11:59 p.m. ET on April 11, 2025.
The length of the program is seven weeks long (mid-June to early August) for a commitment of 40 hours per week.
What’s the Curriculum?
The Dream Collective program includes hands-on experience across various departments, including Production, Studio Operations, Accounting, Development, Post Production, Social/Digital Media, IT, Art/Graphic Design, Legal, and Wardrobe.
- College Credit: Available with approved documentation
- Field Trip: One per program
- Fireside Chats: Weekly guest speaker sessions every Friday at TPS
- Compensation: $18/hour
Get An Internship At Tyler Perry Studios In 4 Easy Steps
This article is going to show you how to land an internship at Tyler Perry Studios. It goes without saying that you need to have a passion for the art of film and TV.
To get an internship with Tyler Perry Studios, one of the main ways to achieve your goal is to apply with the Georgia Film Academy, which is a partner.
1. Have a Passion For Film
The first thing you have to realize is that, to get into movies you have to be serious about the craft. Many of the productions reach $200 million budgets.
That’s why Tyler Perry is very judicious about who he works with. Make sure you’re serious about film and are able to give 100% effort. Perry only hires those who have a passion for film.
2. Choose Which Film Discipline You Desire
There are many movie disciplines you can choose from, so you’ll need to focus on which one you want. Here are some of the major categories available.
- Office / Set production assistant
- Studio operations (stage management)
- Studio Operations (Maintenance, Grounds, Facilities)
- Studio Operations (Production Equipment Rentals)
- Script supervision (on set)
- Social media/digital marketing
- Creative and development
- Corporate accounting
- Production accounting
- Art/graphics 3D design and manufacturing
- Hair and makeup
- Wardrobe/customs
- Set dec and props
- Extras casting
- Locations management
- Camera
- Computer information systems
- Postproduction and editorial
- Legal affairs
- Health and safety
- Studio and network deliverables
3. Meet the Requirements
Here are the requirements:
- Applicants must be a college student or enrolled in a TV/Film training program, having completed their sophomore/2nd year before the internship begins.
- A strong passion for pursuing a career in the entertainment industry is essential.
- Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Interns are responsible for their own housing and travel expenses, as TPS does not provide these.
- Availability for 40 hours per week for 7 weeks is required.
- For those seeking college credit, applicants must be officially registered for an internship course with their institution and provide a formal letter on school letterhead confirming course credit will be granted. Proof of enrollment or class descriptions alone will not be accepted.
4. Submit Your Application
Once you’re ready to go, it’s time to apply for the Dream Collective program.
Before you apply, make sure you have the following documents ready to upload:
- Current Resume.
- Official Transcript.
- Official Letter from School/Institution verifying your internship course enrollment and will receive credit upon completion. (Only for students seeking college credit)
- 3 letters of recommendation from an employer, advisor, or professor.
Final Thought
Tyler Perry is one of the biggest movie moguls in America, having opened an historic studio in 2019. Here’s always looking for talent and that includes interns.
Because Tyler Perry Studios is the premiere television and film studio in Atlanta, it can be kind of difficult to get your foot in the door. But if you’re a Georgia Film Academy graduate, they have a revolving door to get jobs with Tyler Perry.
Let’s go over the steps again as a recap:
- Be passionate about film.
- Choose which film discipline you want to learn.
- Meet the requirements.
- Apply and get accepted into the Tyler Perry Dream Collective Internship Program.
Atlanta has become a movie mecca in recent years and Georgia has been a favorite location for TV productions since the state instituted generous tax breaks for film companies that agree to shoot locally. Projects from CBS, NBC, HBO, BET and more are slated to shoot in the metro area in 2018-19 and the foreseeable future.
Want to learn more about film opportunities? Check out Tyler Perry casting calls.
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The latest episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ (RHOA) has once again stirred the drama between Kenya Moore and new cast members.
During the airing of the Sunday, March 30, 2025 episode of RHOA, a confrontation occurred between long-standing cast member Kenya Moore and newcomer Brit at a private dinner in Bankhead hosted by Angela.
Kenya reported being threatened with whips and pistols by Brit, which led to Kenya seeking protection and assurances from the production team.
After the episode aired, Kenya took to social media to question Bravo’s decision making, particularly when it comes to her safety. “I may be strong, but I’m not bulletproof,” she posted.
Kenya added, “It’s so painful to see my storyline being told by someone else. With that said, I really appreciate Kelli being so kind and supportive to me.”
The incident has sparked controversy and discussions about the network’s handling of the situation, with some viewers expressing support for Kenya and questioning the fairness of the network’s actions.
Kenya Vs. Bravo: A Trend?
This is not the first dust-up between Kenya and Bravo. The network suspended her last year for inappropriate remarks she made toward a cast member then.
Bravo suspended Kenya from RHOA in June 2024 due to an incident where she allegedly displayed explicit images of newcomer Brittany Eady at the grand opening of her Kenya Moore Hair Spa in Atlanta.
This event, filmed for Season 16, involved Moore reportedly unveiling posters showing Eady in a sexually explicit act, which were said to have been sourced online. The suspension came after reports surfaced that Moore’s actions violated Bravo’s code of conduct, specifically regarding the use of sexually explicit content.
Sources indicated that Bravo launched an investigation to review the footage and determine the full context, leading to Moore being sidelined indefinitely during filming.
The incident sparked accusations of “revenge porn,” which Moore denied, stating she would never engage in such behavior and claiming the images were not privately sourced by her. This controversy ultimately led to her exit from the show later that month, though she maintained she was still under contract and not formally fired.
The suspension and subsequent departure marked a significant shift for RHOA, where Moore had been a mainstay since Season 5.
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Midtown Social, which was supposed to have a soft opening in February 2025 and a grand opening in March 2025, but it has been delayed. We’re now hearing that Midtown Social will open soon.
The new Atlanta restaurant comes from restaurateur Devon Green, the owner behind Milk and Honey Atlanta.
The eatery will offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
What’s On the Menu at Midtown Social?
The menu will showcase refined American cuisine, featuring dishes such as lamb chops, short ribs, steaks, chicken, and salmon. In the mornings Monday through Friday from 6 to 11 a.m., you can expect their Social Breakfast Express and Quick Serve Breakfast.
Guests can complement their meal with a variety of draft beers, artisanal cocktails, and choices from a comprehensive liquor, beer, and wine selection, expertly crafted by an in-house mixologist.
The venue will offer indoor seating for 48 guests, plus an additional 40 seats on the patio.
Where Is Midtown Social Located?
Midtown Social is situated at 1740 Marietta Blvd NW, Atlanta, Ga. 30318. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
Breakfast and brunch are household words in Atlanta’s food scene. Make sure you check out our best places to eat in West Midtown.
The best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
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Tax time doesn’t have to be stressful, even if you likely owe Uncle Sam some money. You’re probably here because you want to know how to do your taxes for free in Georgia, so let’s ask the big question:
Can I File My Taxes for Free in Georgia?
Yes, you can file your taxes for free in Georgia if you meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are some options available to you:
IRS Free File Program
If your adjusted gross income (AGI) is $79,000 or less (this threshold can vary slightly year to year, but it’s typically around this amount), you can use the IRS Free File program to prepare and file your federal taxes online for free. Many of these partnered software providers also offer free Georgia state tax filing, though you should check the specific provider’s offer to confirm. You’ll need to complete your federal return first, as the state return pulls information from it.
- No Age or Residency Restrictions: There’s no age limit or requirement to live in a specific state—anyone in the U.S. (including Georgia) meeting the income cap qualifies. This includes citizens, residents with ITINs, and even military personnel.
- What It Covers: The program provides free online tax preparation and e-filing for federal income tax returns through partnered software companies (e.g., H&R Block, TaxAct, or others). Some of these partners also offer free state filing (like for Georgia), though you should check each provider’s terms, as this isn’t guaranteed across the board.
- Exceptions and Notes: If your income exceeds $79,000, you can still use Free File Fillable Forms, which are electronic versions of paper tax forms, but they’re bare-bones—no guided help, just e-filing. Also, the program is only accessible through the IRS website (IRS.gov/freefile) and is typically available from mid-January until the tax deadline (April 15, 2025, unless extended).
So, if your AGI last year was $79,000 or less, you’re in! You’d just need your tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, etc.) and a computer or smartphone to get started. Does that match your situation?
Georgia Free File Alliance
The Georgia Department of Revenue partners with software vendors to provide free electronic filing for both federal and Georgia state income tax returns for qualifying taxpayers. Eligibility often depends on income, age, or other factors, and some providers may charge for federal filing but offer the state return for free. Visit the Georgia Department of Revenue website to explore approved providers and their criteria.
Who Qualifies To Use the Georgia Free File Alliance?
- Income-Based Eligibility: Most providers target taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) below a certain threshold, often aligning with the IRS Free File cap of $79,000 or less. However, some Georgia-specific partners might extend this limit slightly higher (e.g., $80,000-$84,000) or lower it (e.g., $60,000), depending on their offer. You’ll need to check each provider’s specific cutoff on the Georgia Department of Revenue’s Free File page.
- Age or Status Criteria: Some vendors offer free filing regardless of income if you meet other conditions, such as being:
- Active-duty military with an AGI up to a higher limit (e.g., $79,000 or more in some cases).
- A senior citizen (e.g., age 65+), though this is less common.
- Eligible for certain credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which might broaden access.
- Residency: You must file a Georgia state tax return, meaning you’re a full-year resident, part-year resident, or nonresident with Georgia-sourced income. Federal filing through the same provider might be free or require a separate qualification (e.g., matching IRS Free File rules).
- Provider-Specific Rules: The Alliance includes multiple software companies (past examples include TaxSlayer, OLT.com, or 1040.com), and each has unique terms. For instance:
- One might offer free state filing only if you qualify for their free federal option.
- Another might charge for federal but provide the Georgia return free regardless of income.
- How to Check: Visit the Georgia Department of Revenue’s website (dor.georgia.gov) and navigate to the Free File section. There, you’ll find a list of participating vendors with links to their eligibility details. You’ll typically need your income docs (W-2s, 1099s) and last year’s AGI to confirm you qualify when you start.
Since it’s tailored to Georgians, it’s a great option if you’re filing a state return and want to save on fees. The catch is you’ll need to browse the providers to find one matching your income and situation—there’s no universal cutoff like with IRS Free File.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
This IRS-sponsored program offers free tax preparation by certified volunteers to individuals with incomes typically up to $64,000 (though this can vary by location), as well as people with disabilities, limited English proficiency, or those over 60. In Georgia, organizations like United Way of Central Georgia and universities such as Georgia Southern or UGA run VITA sites where you can get both federal and state returns filed for free. Some sites offer in-person, drop-off, or virtual services—check local listings for availability near you.
MyFreeTaxes
Supported by United Way, this online platform lets you file federal and state taxes for free with no income cap in some cases (though historically it’s been capped around $84,000—confirm current limits on their site). It’s a user-friendly option if you’re comfortable filing online and want multilingual support.
Other Free Options
Services like FreeTaxUSA offer free federal filing and charge a small fee (around $15) for state returns, but if you’re looking for completely free, stick to the options above.
Additionally, if your tax situation is simple (e.g., just a W-2 with no complex deductions), some commercial software like TurboTax Free Edition might cover both federal and state for free, though restrictions apply.
Final Word
To take advantage of these, you’ll typically need your W-2s, 1099s, Social Security cards or ITINs, and other relevant documents.
For VITA, you might need an appointment, so plan ahead as the tax deadline (April 15, 2025, unless extended) approaches. Need more time? Here’s how to file a tax extension.
Are you trying to become more financially literate? Check out Money Mondays at AtlantaFi.com, where we’ll share strategies to save and make cash.
If saving money is something you’re serious about, AtlantaFi.com has a lot of resources to help you.
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