As the April 17 deadline for filing federal tax returns rapidly approaches, the IRS is offering free filing help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs in the Auburn area.
For filers who make less than $50,000 or are 50 years of age and up, the IRS provides free tax preparation in partnership with the United Way of King County at Auburn City Hall from 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesdays to Thursdays until April 15.
The AARP also provides free tax preparation by appointment for those 50 and up at the Auburn Senior Activity Center on Monday and Tuesday mornings until April 12.
“We work very closely with partner organizations such as the AARP and the United Way to provide free tax preparation for the low income or elderly,” IRS spokesperson David Tucker said. “What our folks do is train volunteers who work at free sites across the state, and the nation.”
At the Auburn City Hall site, no appointments are necessary. Spanish and Tagalog translation is available.
“They should bring photo identification, valid Social Security cards for themselves and anyone else they are putting on their return,” Tucker said. “They basically need to bring all the different documents you need to file taxes.”
Citizenship is not necessary, but filers should have a bank account number, either savings or checking, to file their refund electronically and have it deposited into the account. The service is for basic tax returns only — no business taxes, rental income or sale of property or stock.
“It’s actually a very popular program,” Tucker said.
In addition, free tax filing preparations are available to members of the military at local bases.
“We’ve also expanded to military bases, so our sailors, soldiers, airmen and Marines can take advantage of the free service also,” Tucker said.
For more information, call the United Way at 206-349-9337 or visit the office on the second floor of Auburn City Hall at 25 W. Main St.
Appointments at the senior center can be made by calling (253) 931-3016.
For tax questions online, visit www.irs.org.
