Peggy Moton has done tax preparation for more than 35 years. This month, though, is her first time giving AARP Tax Aid out of the Surratts-Clinton Branch Library.
“I volunteered with AARP Tax Aid years and years ago, when it was hard copy,” Moton said. “Pen and pencil, all the way. Then, I got back into it about three years ago.”
Starting Jan. 29, Moton and several other AARP-certified volunteer tax counselors will provide tax preparation assistance for seniors and low-income residents each Tuesday, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the library. To schedule your appointment, call Moton the Friday before your preferred Tuesday appointment.
Moton suggests that filers bring last year’s tax return, all the forms they have traditionally used in filing taxes in previous years such as W-2s, 1099 forms and dividend statements, and anything else they think might be of use.
“If you have any question about something’s taxability, or any new thing you haven’t dealt with before, bring it in,” Moton said. “The tax counselor can help you decide if it’s within our range of service, and if it’s taxable. When you’re in doubt, bring the documentation.”
AARP Tax Aid focuses on basic tax preparation for individuals and families, not corporate taxes. That helps them keep appointments brief.
“If you bring everything to your initial visit, it should not be longer than an hour or an hour and 15 minutes,” said Moton. “But if you didn’t bring a document you need, we’ll send you back for it.”
To schedule an appointment, call Peggy Moton at 301-292-2188 on the Friday before the Tuesday you’d like to come in. AARP Tax Aid is available Jan. 29 through April 9.