Tax counseling available at SOWEGA Council on Aging

ALBANY — The Tax-Aide Program is in full swing at the SOWEGA Council on Aging to help sort out the tax filing process that can prove to be a confusing and stressful time for some.

In light of the tax season, free tax counseling and preparation for taxpayers of middle and low income, with special attention to those 60 and older, is available from Council on Aging — the AARP Tax-Aide site in Albany, officials with the Council on Aging said.

Council on Aging officials said taxpayers will be helped at the Kay Hind Senior Life Enrichment Center at 335 W. Society Ave. on Mondays and Tuesdays through April 12. Individuals are asked to bring picture identification, a Social Security card for each person on the return, a copy of last year’s income tax return and all documents relating to income and claimed deductions if a tax filer is itemizing.

AARP Tax-Aide is administered through the AARP Foundation in cooperation with the Internal Revenue Service. The Albany area sponsor is the Council on Aging Retired Senior Volunteer Program. For 45 years, the Tax-Aide program has continued to grow, and is now the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service for individuals with low to moderate incomes, with special attention to those 60 or older.

Officials said the volunteers offering services are trained and certified under the supervision of the IRS to assist in filing basic tax returns. It is not necessary to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use the service.

The Council on Aging was established in 1966 and works to coordinate a system of services that promote the well-being and independence of older and disabled Georgians, helping them achieve healthy and self-sufficient lives. The organization’s vision is for all seniors and disabled individuals in its 14-county service area to have the resources to live longer, live stronger and live safer. Over 20 programs and services are delivered through the Council on Aging to help older adults in the area.

For an appointment for tax counseling and preparation, call (229) 435-6789 for an appointment. For more information on the Council on Aging and its programs, call (229) 432-1124.