Free tax counseling and preparation for middle- and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to those who are 60 years and older, is available at SAGE Eldercare, located at 290 Broad Street in Summit, on Thursdays from February 11 through April 14, 2015, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. The assistance is provided by AARP as part of a national Tax-Aide program through its foundation in conjunction with the IRS. Area residents in Essex, Morris, Somerset, and Union Counties do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use the service.

During the ten-week program, SAGE will host trained volunteer tax preparers from AARP, who are trained by the IRS for the AARP Tax-Aide program.

Registration for this service is required. Taxpayers should bring a copy of their 2014 Federal and State income tax returns; 2015 income tax packets; 2015 real estate tax bill; Federal information forms for 2015 (W-2 forms; SSA-1099 form; 1099s for interest, dividends and other income; 1099 for pension, annuity and IRA distribution; 1099-B forms for assets sold during the year); receipts or cancelled checks if itemizing deductions; Social Security numbers for dependents; and, a photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.  

This is a confidential service and preparation is by appointment only.  To avoid end of tax season rush, late February, early March appointments are encouraged.  For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call SAGE at 908.598.5509.