FREEPORT — Starting Feb. 5, the Senior Resource Center will offer free federal and state 1040 tax counseling, preparation and filing services for low and middle-income senior taxpayers residing in Stephenson and Jo Daviess counties as well as adults with disabilities. This service is provided through the AARP Tax-Aide program by trained and IRS-certified volunteers and will run through April 15.
“Thanks to the dedication of our trained and certified volunteers, we are able to offer this service at no cost to low and middle income taxpayers who need assistance filing their 2024 taxes,” said Amanda Faivre, executive director of the Senior Resource Center. “Last year, we served 435 residents through this program, resulting in total tax savings of more than $180,000 with an average refund of $538.41.”
Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 815-235-9777.
Key Details:
● What: Free tax preparation and filing services through the AARP Tax-Aide program
● When: Feb. 5 — April 15
● Who: Low and middle income residents age 60 and older in Stephenson and Jo Daviess counties as well as adults with disabilities
● Where: Senior Resource Center, 206 E. Stephenson Street, Freeport
● How to Register: Call 815-235-9777 to schedule an appointment. Spots are limited and fill quickly.
Items to bring to your appointment include:
● Photo ID
● Social Security card for each person on the return
● Proof of all income (including social security benefits)
● Proof of medical insurance coverage for each person on the return
● For joint returns, both persons must be present
● Your previous year’s return
Unfortunately, not every person or every return qualifies for the Tax-Aide program. Senior Resource Center tax aides are limited to specific types of tax forms which the aides are allowed to prepare by both the IRS and by the AARP Foundation, which sponsors the program. If a person’s return falls outside the scope of the aides’ training, then they will need to go to a professional tax preparer. Examples of returns aids cannot prepare include: farm income (unless only land rental), military returns, ministerial income, and cancellation of mortgage debt, business income that involves depreciation, rental income, and K-1 forms with ANY other entries than interest, dividends, or royalties.
For more information about the free tax preparation services or other programs offered by the Senior Resource Center, visit www.srcntr.org or call 815-235-9777.
