AARP Tax-Aide Provides Free Tax Prep Help

Larry Maxcy, AARP Tax Aide

Tax season is with us! Do you dread filling out those confusing forms? Do new provisions of the tax code apply to you? Still haven't filed? Help is available!

Free tax assistance and preparation for taxpayers with low and middle incomes, with special attention to those age 60 and older, is available from AARP Tax-Aide from February 1 through April 15. You do NOT need to be an AARP member or a retiree to use this service.   
 
Some provisions of the tax code may benefit you this year. If you paid property taxes but don't itemize, you can deduct $500 (single) or $1,000 (married) of your property taxes this year. If you bought a new car in 2009, you may be able to deduct the sales tax. Some unemployment income may not be taxable. And if you bought a house in 2009, you may be entitled to a credit.
 
Tax law can often be confusing. AARP Tax-Aide volunteers can make the process of filling out tax returns a whole lot easier. The volunteers have gone through a rigorous training program offered in conjunction with the Internal Revenue Service, and have the knowledge to prepare your return taking advantage of all the many provisions of the tax code.
 
AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will offer help with personal income tax returns at more than 200 sites in Washington state this year. The program is offered at senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations.
 
Last year, more than 1,000 AARP Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 56,000 Washington residents file their income tax returns. Call our toll-free number, 1-888-227-7669, or visit our web site to locate an AARP Tax-Aide site near you. 
 
When you visit an AARP Tax-Aide site, please bring:

• a copy of last year's return
• all W-2 and 1099 forms, including SSA-1099 for Social Security benefits paid
• property tax records if applicable
• all receipts and canceled checks if itemizing
• Social Security cards for yourself and dependents
• If applicable, dependent care provider information including name, employer, and social security number.

AARP Tax-Aide is a program of the AARP Foundation, offered in conjunction with the IRS.