Free Tax Counseling, Preparation Help Available

Free tax counseling and preparation for area taxpayers with low and medium income, particularly those 60 and older, is available from AARP tax aides. They will be offering help with personal income tax returns for federal, state, local, and property/rent rebates at several senior centers:

• In Coudersport, anyone who is interested should call 274-7887 for an appointment on Feb. 15, Feb. 29, March 14 or March 28, from 9 am to 2 pm. 
• In Galeton, appointments are available (435-7702) for Feb. 16, March 1, March 15 and March 29.
• In Shinglehouse, call 697-7178 for appointments on Feb. 14, Feb. 28, March 13 and March 27. 
• In Ulysses (848-9880), appointments are available Feb. 22, March 7 and March 21.

This year, e-filing will be available. Those using this free service are asked to bring a Social Security card or copy, a copy of last year’s return, all 2011 tax information and booklets received by mail. This includes Social Security payments and rent/property tax receipts if applying for a rebate.