Tax-Aide, other efforts fulfill need for taxpayers

Tax preparation season has arrived and with it that feeling of bewilderment among many of us faced with filling out often-confusing forms and checking income tables for federal and state rates.

But take heart, there's plenty of help out there for taxpayers.

Aside from the tax preparation businesses and accountants who offer their expert advice, the AARP is once again offering its Tax-Aide program as it has for almost 35 years. Volunteers working with the AARP program will be at Marietta's Knights of Columbus hall on Franklin Street from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays through April 15, the deadline everyone who has to file is facing. Sessions also are planned at the Marietta Township Recreation Center (formerly Reno School) from 12:30 to 4 p.m. today, Feb. 24 and March 24.

The program is open to anyone although its primary goal is to help senior citizens. Appointments are not necessary but those showing up to get help are advised to set aside plenty of time. These are tax forms you'll be dealing with, after all. And if you've dealt through the AARP Tax-Aide Program before, doing your taxes this time should be a little less time consuming.

In addition, Washington-Morgan Community Action has partnered with the Oho Benefit Bank to offer free income tax return filing. The service is for individuals or families whose income level is below $57,000 a year. The service is available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays at Community Action's office at 218 Putnam St.

And you should bring all relevant papers such as statements of income, and expenditures that may have an impact on your bottom line. Specifically, you should bring last year's tax return, W-2s and 1099s, all receipts, all Social Security cards, picture ID, real estate tax bills and business mileage if you're using it as a deduction.

About 12 AARP volunteers file returns electronically using the IRS' "TaxWise" software. And counselors must pass training in the latest in tax laws. Everything is done electronically, meaning returns will be processed quickly, which is especially good news if you're getting a refund.

AARP's Tax-Aide program has filled a real need in the community for nearly 35 years. Based on Monday's session at the K of C hall (about 30 people got help), that need for assistance with income tax forms is just as important in our community today as it ever has been.