AARP Tax-aide preparation assistance again available

Free income tax preparations are again being offered to northern Niagara County residents this tax season.

"A group of AARP volunteers is prepared to help you do your taxes again this year for free," said Ken Greulich, AARP Tax-aide local coordinator. "That's right, over 32,000 dedicated and proud, IRS-certified volunteers are available for assistance at nearly 7,000 sites nationwide from late January/early February through April 15."

The program is sponsored by the AARP Foundation and is intended for taxpayers with low and middle income, with special attention to those age 60 and older.

"It is a free, confidential and quality service provided by friendly people in our own neighborhood. The service prepares tax returns and answers tax questions," Greulich said.

The service is available at the Lewiston Public Library, 305 S. Eighth St., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., and at the Lewiston Senior Center, 4361 Lower River Road, from 1 to 3 p.m. To make an appointment, call the Lewiston Library at 754-4720 or the Lewiston Senior Center at 754-2071.

Greulich added that, due to the late changes to the tax code last December, the IRS will not accept some returns for E-filing until Feb. 14. Included are returns that contain schedule A (itemized deductions), tuition and fees deduction, or educator expense deduction.

"If any of these situations apply to you, you are asked to delay your appointment until after Feb. 14," Greulich said.

Pictured left, this year's group of volunteers is shown during their earlier training program.