Puzzled by the tax law or which credits and deductions to take? Need assistance with your tax return? The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program or the Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program (TCE) offer free tax help if you qualify.
The VITA Program offers free tax help to low to moderate income (generally, $49,000 and below) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns.
Certified volunteers sponsored by various organizations receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country.
In Bonham, a VITA site is open at the Bonham Public Library, 305 E. 5th St., Wednesday, Apr. 7 from 10:00am-2:00pm (last day)
Bonham Public Library
"Trained community volunteers can help you with special credits, such as Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Credit for the Elderly for which you may qualify," said Clay Sanford, an IRS spokesman in Dallas. In addition to free tax return preparation assistance, most VITA sites also offer free electronic filing (e-filing). Individuals taking advantage of the e-file program will receive their refunds in half the time compared to returns filed on paper – even faster if you have your refund deposited directly into your bank account.
Items you need to bring to the VITA/TCE Sites to have your tax returns prepared:
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Social Security Cards for you, your spouse and dependents and/or a Social Security Number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration
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Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return
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Current year’s tax package if you received one
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Wage and earning statement(s) Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, from all employers
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Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)
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A copy of last year’s Federal and State returns if available
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Bank Routing Numbers and Account Numbers for Direct Deposit
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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.
