Free income tax assistance is available for all taxpayers age 60-over, and low- and middle-income taxpayers of any age, through the AARP Tax-Aide program. There is no income limit for participating through the program; only the complexity of the tax return determines whether or not a taxpayer can be served.

The Tax-Aide program is sponsored by the AARP, with training and materials supplied by the IRS and Oregon Department of Revenue. AARP membership is not required.

The program will begin on Feb. 3, and run through April 14. Trained volunteers will be available at the School District #3 Administrative Office (former Lincoln Junior High building), Room 310, each Thursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Volunteers will prepare tax returns on site and assist taxpayers with questions. Volunteers will also be available on Tuesday through the month of February.

Returns will be filed electronically, which speeds up the processing of refunds. There is no charge for the tax preparation or for the electronic filing.

To participate in the program, bring all current tax information — W-2s, 1099s, interest and dividend statements — last year’s completed tax returns and Social Security cards for yourself, your spouse and all dependents. Verification of Social Security numbers and name are necessary to avoid rejects by the IRS. Photo identification is also required for taxpayers new to the site.

New requirements for this year include needing property tax statements (1098) and the amount of the Economic Stimulus Payment that was received in 2007.

Appointments are not required. An elevator is available at the south end of the building. For more information, call Sam Caizza at 573-3262.