Tax time does not have to be stressful. AARP Tax Aide volunteers offer free help with personal income tax returns to low and moderate income taxpayers of all ages during the filing season, Feb. 1-April 15. From high school/college students to senior citizens the service brings peace of mind and makes “taxes less taxing.”
The Kootasca office at 2232 Second Ave. East is open for appointments and taxes. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 283-5236 for appointments.
Taxpayers should bring:
Social Security cards and birth dates for all persons listed on the tax return
Last year’s tax return
W2s, 1099s for Social Security, pension, interest and dividends and miscellaneous income
Child care and education expenses for taxpayer and dependents
Student loan interest paid
Information if itemizing deductions
Real estate taxes paid in 2009 (you may qualify for an additional Standard Deduction)
To apply for a renter’s property tax refund bring 2009 Certificate of Rent Paid
To apply for a homeowners property tax refund, bring the 2010 Property Tax Statement which is mailed by the county the end of March
These two refunds also require non-taxable benefits such as public assistance, veterans benefits or SSI received.
New this year:
You may be able to deduct state, local and excise taxes on a new motor vehicle you purchased after Feb. 16, 2009 — bring sales invoices
First time home buyers who purchased a home after 2008 and before May 1, 2010, may qualify for a credit up to $8,000 — bring contract
You may qualify for a Residential Energy Credit if you made energy efficient improvements on your home in 2009 — bring invoices.
