Free tax assistance for families earning LESS THAN $49,000 annually.

The following items are needed to prepare your tax return:
> Driver's License or Photo I.D.
> Social Security Card or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) for all members in your family
> All W-2 Forms
> If filing jointly, your spouse must be present
> Copy of prior year tax return (if applicable)
> 1099 Forms (if applicable)
----> 1099-G Unemployment Benefits
----> 1099-INT Interest from your bank
----> 1099-R Pensions, Annuities, Retirement Plans
> Account Numbers for electronic deposit of refund

"How do VITA and AARP Tax-Aide work?"
Filing your taxes with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program or AARP Tax-Aide program is free, easy and fast. Our volunteers will prepare your taxes in a friendly and professional manner. We also prepare your taxes electronically and give you the option to mail it in yourself. With VITA and AARP you can get your refund within 7 to 10 days using direct deposit.

"What is Direct Deposit?"
The IRS can deposit your tax refund directly into your bank account instead of mailing you a
paper refund check. It is possible to receive your refund within 7 to 10 days.

"How can I check my refund status?"
For further information you can contact the IRS:
by internet: http://www.irs.gov/
by phone: (800) 829-1040

Available Tax Credits

Child Tax Credits (CTC)

How can you benefit from the Child Tax Credit? CTC is a federal tax credit now worth up to $1,000 per child for the tax year 2004. New eligibility requirements enacted by congress allow more families to become eligible for the CTC, regardless of whether they owe income tax. Certain families may also be eligible for both the CTC and the EITC.

You may claim this credit if you pay someone to care for your dependent who is under 13 or for your spouse or dependent who is not able to care for him or herself. The Credit can be up to 30 percent of your expenses. To qualify, you must pay these expenses so you can work or look for work.

Education Credits

Education Credits are available to persons who pay expenses for higher education. You can claim this credit if A) you pay qualified tuition and related expenses of higher education (this includes borrowed funds) B) you pay the tuition and related expenses for an eligible student C) the eligible student is either yourself, your spouse or a dependent you claim.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
What is the Earned Income Tax Credit? It's money in your pocket! The Earned Income Tax Credit is refundable Federal tax credit for eligible individuals and families who work and have earned income. The EITC reduces the amount of tax you owe, and it may give you refund.