Free tax assistance and preparation for taxpayers with low and middle-income, with special attention to those 60 years of age and older, is available from AARP Tax-Aide from February 1 through April 15, 2010.  You do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service.

Through its Tax-Aide program, trained volunteers prepare returns using software provided by the IRS and file the returns electronically.

Persons wishing to use this service will need to bring:

· Two forms of identification, one of which is a picture ID;

· Proof of their and their dependents social security number, such as their social security card, a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) with their name and number on it or their SSA, RRB or CSA Form 1099 Benefits Statement;

· A copy of their prior years return, if they have it;

· Their tax documents; W-2 forms, 1099 forms, unemployment compensation statements, child care provider information, etc.;

· Proof of Real Estate Taxes paid and Sales Taxes paid on the purchase of new motor vehicle.

For tax year 2009 the Taxpayers Standard Deduction will be increased by the amount of Real Estate Taxes paid up to a maximum of $500.00 ($1,000.00 for married persons filing jointly) and/or Sales Taxes paid on the purchase of a new motor vehicle up to a maximum purchase price of $49,500.00.  Deductions do not have to be itemized in order to receive this benefit.   There are a number of other benefits available for qualifying taxpayers; such as Energy Credits, First Time Homebuyer Credit, a partial exclusion of Unemployment Benefits, etc.

Beginning the week of February 1st , this free service is being offered at the following locations in Cumberland County:

Fairfield Glade Community and Conference Center

Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8:00AM to 1:00PM

128 Stonehenge Drive, Fairfield Glade

Call 484-3722 for an appointment

Fairpark Senior Center

1433 Livingston Road, Crossville

Wednesday and Thursday, 9:00AM-3:00PM

Call 484-0479 for an appointment