Senior citizens, low-income taxpayers can get free tax help
Tax returns for 2010 will be completed free of charge to any senior citizen over 60 years old and to any low-income taxpayers.
This service is provided through AARP by appointment only at several sites throughout the tri-state area beginning Feb. 1 through April 1.
The volunteer has been trained and certified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, and is able to complete federal tax returns , PA state tax returns, property tax rebates, rent rebates and local wage tax forms.
The taxpayer must make an appointment and bring: 1) last year’s 2009 copy of their tax returns; 2) all of their 2010 tax documents, and 3) the original stamped 2010 property tax receipts.
The completed returns will be filed electronically to the IRS and the state. The rebate and local wage returns need to be mailed.
There has been an increase in the income level from $15,000 to $35,000 for property tax rebate, with the rebate amount varying from $250 to $650. Rent rebate for the state ranges from $500 to $650. Participants should bring their property tax and rent receipts and let the volunteer see if he/she is eligible for a refund.
The following types of tax returns will not be completed at these sites: Rental income; depreciations, farms, business, amended returns from previous years, and any complex returns. These returns need to be completed by a paid professional.
The taxpayer must call for an appointment at one of the following sites:
n McDonald/Cecil Senior Center, 3599Millers Run Road, Route 50, Cecil, PA 15321. Phone 724-743-1827.
Returns will be completed from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from Feb. 1 to April 7.
Participants must call for an appointment between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily and ask for Naomi.
n Heritage Public Library, 52 Fourth St., McDonald, PA 15057. Phone 724-926- 8400. Returns will be completed only on Wednesdays from 1 to 4 p.m. beginning Feb. 2 to April 6. Participants must call for an appointment at the library and ask for Connie.
n Presbyterian Senior Care Center, 880 S. Main St., Washington, PA 15301, phone 724-250-4993. Returns will be completed only on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning Feb. 4 to April 8. Participants must call for an appointment at the center and ask for Karen.