By Somerset County Board of Freeholders
Eighty volunteer tax counselors have been trained to assist Somerset County residents in preparing their federal and New Jersey income tax returns.
After passing the IRS and AARP tests, these volunteers are ready to help low- and middle-income residents prepare their tax returns. Special emphasis is placed on helping senior citizens and residents with disabilities.
Of this group, all 80 volunteers took additional training in order to help county residents who wish to file their returns electronically. E-filing enables taxpayers to obtain a more rapid refund if they have money coming back to them.
Tax-preparation volunteers will be working at locations around the county. Five sites – in Hillsborough, Raritan, Manville, Franklin and Warren – have been designated for e-filing.
In 2009, approximately 2,300 tax returns were filed with the assistance of county volunteers.
To take advantage of this free service this year, gather up all the required documents – W-2 forms, bank, broker and Social Security statements, medical and other expenses, and a copy of your last year’s returns – and call the Somerset County Office of Volunteer Services at (908) 541-5710 for an appointment.
The program runs through April 15 and is by appointment only.