Free tax preparation assistance offered to low and moderate income taxpayers in Allamakee, Howard and Winneshiek Counties

Need help filing your 2012 federal and state tax returns?  If your family income falls within the low to moderate range or if you are disabled or elderly, trained and certified volunteers will help you file your tax returns for free.  The service is part of the AARP Foundation or the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs and is coordinated by Iowa State University Extension in Cresco and Waukon and Northeast Iowa RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) in Decorah and Postville.

 Returns will be filed electronically and usually you can expect any tax refund to be deposited in your bank account within two weeks. Taxpayers who do not have a bank account but would like to file electronically are encouraged to visit a local bank to set up a free checking or savings account.  The volunteer tax preparer will make sure you file for the Earned Income Tax credit and the Child Tax Credit if you qualify.  

Taxpayers who visit a volunteer tax site should bring:  2011 wage and earnings statement (Form W-2) from all employers; interest statements from banks (Form 1099); a copy of last year's tax return; auto registration; social security cards or official documentation for yourself and all dependents; and bank account and routing numbers if a refund is to be directly deposited.

Services are provided by appointment only at the following locations:  Allamakee County at the Iowa State University Extension Office in Waukon and at the library in Postville; Howard County at the Iowa State University Extension Office in Cresco; Winneshiek County at the Decorah Public Library.   

If you would like to make an appointment with a volunteer tax preparer, use the following contact numbers:

•  Decorah and Postville:  563-380-4321
•  Waukon 563-568-6345
•  Cresco:  563-547-3001
•  Elma:  641-393-8408
 
 
If you have questios, contqct Kathy Barloon, Northeast Iowa RSVP Director, 202 Winnebago, Decorah. 563-382-3717.