AARP continues Tax-Aide

By Glynis Crawford Smith

The Highlander

Tax-Aide, the free tax service of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) will continue work to assist low to moderate income taxpayers complete and efile tax returns right up to Thursday, April 14.

The service ended in Burnet Monday, but one last session will be offered Thursday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club at 1701 Broadway Street in Marble Falls.

It will continue through April 14.

“We do not check income or age to provide the service,” said local coordinator Judy Fiene. “The AARP focuses on the elderly. However, we do returns for people of all ages.”

The organization of volunteers changed somewhat this year. In District 1, Fiene is the coordinator for services in Marble Falls and George Hessler assumed the role for Burnet.

“We have had 19 volunteers at the two sites,” Fiene. “Space limits the number of counselors we can have working at any given time, as we want to provide privacy for tax preparation.”

Service is first come, first served, so her advice is:  Come early and, just in case, bring a sweater, a book, a crossword puzzle or some knitting or handwork to pass wait time.

Fiene recommends bringing a photo ID and all tax related documents, such as one's Social Security Card and statements, W2 and 1099 forms, records of interest earned, bank and brokerage statements, deductions, self employment income and related expenses, including mileage. For deductions and expenses, an itemized list is preferred.

Those who want direct deposit of tax refunds should bring a current check to confirm routing and account numbers.