American Association of Retired People, AARP, will provide tax aide at the Bluffton Senior Citizen’s Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 9 a.m. Feb. 2, according to Tonya Meyer, director. The free service will continue through April 14.

AARP volunteers specialize in helping taxpayers with low and moderate-income, with special attention to those aged 60 and older.

"This service is free of charge, but an appointment is required and may be made by calling 419-358-8971 or stop by the Bluffton Senior Center," said Meyer. "Walk-ins will not be accepted."

 Meyer said that persons should bring the following items with them to their appointment:
• current year’s tax forms,
• copy of last year’s income tax returns,
• W-2 forms from each employer,
• unemployment compensation statements,
• SSA-1099 form if you were paid Social Security benefits,
• all 1099 forms,
• all forms indicating federal income tax paid,
• proof of insurance and Social Security cards or other official documentation for yourself and all dependents.

Because of tax fraud and identity theft persons must also bring a photo ID and Social Security card or the volunteers cannot help you with your taxes.

"If you are itemizing, please have all items added up, as the volunteers do not have time to do this for you," she added.

The volunteers are not trained to do schedule C, complicated/lengthy schedule D, or schedule E (rental property, royalties, partnerships, and trusts that involve depreciation) so those cases could be turned away.