Dec 15th 2007, 08:42

Free Income Tax Preparation Assistance

Are you having trouble figuring out your tax returns? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program can help prepare it for you, free of charge!

Trained volunteers in your community can help you with special credits that you may qualify for, such as Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and Credit for the Elderly. This program also features free electronic filing (e-filing) services in most sites, so you may get your tax refunds much faster, especially if you opt to have your refunds deposited straight into your bank account.

If you are any of the following, then you may take advantage of this free service:

• People with low-to-moderate income ($39,000 or lower)
• Senior citizens (60 years and older)
• Military personnel (Marines, airmen, soldiers, sailors and their families)

When you request for assistance, get ready to present these requirements:

• Proof of your identity
• Social Security Cards for you, your spouse and dependents and/or a Social Security Number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration
• Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return
• Current year's tax package if you received one
• Wage and earning statement(s) Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, from all employers
• Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)
• A copy of last year's Federal and State returns if available
• Bank Routing Numbers and Account Numbers for Direct Deposit
• Total paid for day care provider and the day care provider's tax identifying number (the provider's Social Security Number or the provider's business Employer Identification Number)
• To file taxes electronically on a married filing joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms.

To know more about the VITA Program and to locate the VITA site nearest you, you may call 1-800-829-1040.

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