Tax Counselors Are Ready to Help This Tax Season
Free Tax Preparation Is Available
Need help preparing your taxes? Somerset County Freeholder Brian D. Levine has announced that Tax-Aide has returned. The county Office of Volunteer Services and AARP have teamed up again this year to provide free tax-counseling assistance for residents who need help preparing their federal and New Jersey income tax returns. Appointments are required through April 15.
Tax-Aide is a volunteer program designed to help residents prepare their tax returns. The program is specifically open to seniors, residents with disabilities, and lower-income residents but is available to everybody. In 2019, almost 3,000 taxpayers used this free service in Somerset County.
These volunteers have many years of experience and receive annual training on the latest federal and state tax regulations including guidelines for deductions and credits, so that all tax returns are prepared accurately. All tax-preparation volunteers are tested at the advanced level and certified by the IRS.
About 65 tax-preparation volunteers provide direct support to residents at six sites within Somerset County including Montgomery, Martinsville, Manville, Bridgewater, Franklin and Green Brook. Tax returns are filed electronically, enabling taxpayers to obtain a more rapid refund if they are eligible. Volunteers also can assist with preparing Property Tax Reimbursement (PTR) forms for homeowners 65 years or older who meet certain eligibility requirements.
At your scheduled appointment, bring your W-2 forms, bank, broker and social security statements, medical and other expenses, a copy of your last year’s returns, and any other relevant information. The tax counselor will review your tax documents, prepare this year’s federal and New Jersey income tax returns, and file them electronically. It is a no-fuss, no- muss, free service.
If you are interested in making an appointment to consult with a tax counselor, call the Somerset County Office of Volunteer Services at 908-541-5710. The program runs through April 15 and is by appointment only.
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