AARP volunteers to provide tax help

Callaway County seniors and low-income individuals in need of help filing their 2012 taxes once again can find that assistance at the Callaway Senior Center.

A group of trained local volunteers will be providing AARP Tax-Aide at the senior center from 9 a.m. until noon on Feb. 1, 4, 5 and 6 and then on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays through April 15.

"We will be providing free tax aid for the poor and elderly. We will do most taxes, but nothing with depreciation and no business taxes," said Willis Linneman, who leads the team of seven tax counselors and three greeters. "We will help fill out federal and state tax forms, and then we will file them electronically."

He said anyone in need of tax assistance should come to the senior center with their W-2 and 1099 forms as well as any documentation for itemized deductions such as donations and medical expenses.

Linneman, who has been volunteering with AARP Tax-Aide for 17 years, said he got involved as a way to give back to the community. He said he would encourage area residents to take advantage of the opportunity to ensure their taxes are filed properly.

"Just everyone come on out. It's on a first-come, first-serve basis and we'll serve probably 20 to 25 people a day," Linneman said.

Linneman said anyone with questions can contact him at (573) 289-0570.