Income tax preparation at New Canaan Library

Volunteers are ready to assist tax payers with income tax forms at the New Canaan Library on Saturdays and on Tuesday afternoons Feb. 7 through April 7.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is sponsored by the New Canaan Library and the Internal Revenue Service. The local program is again being coordinated by volunteer Ruth Kelley, former management executive with the Travelers Group and a CPCU. Chani Sra, a veteran preparer from New Canaan, will be coordinating electronic transmission of returns. Other volunteers contribute a variety of financial experience to the program. Also from New Canaan are Peggy Hooker, Hal Erichs, Paul Howes, Kate Clark and Ellen Gaw. Darien resident preparers are Bill Cox and Charles Forman.

All volunteers are completing current training and an examination certifying them for

participation in the program. Tax returns will be prepared by computers and filed electronically (E-filing). Volunteers will help taxpayers who are elderly, have disabilities, are non-English speaking or are in lower income brackets. The program is intended to assist persons with standard tax forms. People with business returns or complicated returns involving multiple capital gains/losses (Schedule D) or limited partnerships (Schedule K-1), should seek assistance from professional tax accountants.

Taxpayers are encouraged to have preparers E-file returns. Electronic filing reduces the amount of time to receive a refund. A printed copy of the return will be given to the taxpayer on the date the return is prepared. Social Security cards for all filers and dependents are required. A photo ID is also needed. To file Joint returns both husband and wife must attend the tax session.

Persons seeking help should come with a copy of last year's return, wage and earnings statements (Form W2) from employers, interest, dividend and pension statements,Social Security statements and other relevant information about income, deductions and expenses.

Appointments are necessary for tax assistance and can be made by calling the New Canaan Library at 203-594-5003. For further information call Laurie Iffland, New Canaan Library, 203-594-5003.