The City of Rancho Santa Margarita, The Bell Tower Foundation and the AARP Tax Aide group will once again be conducting the “Tax Preparation Assistance” program from February 3rd, 2010 through April 14th, 2010.  The Tax Preparation Assistance program provides FREE assistance in filing federal and state income tax returns for low and moderate-income taxpayers of ALL ages.  This service is free of charge to eligible residents in the city of Rancho Santa Margarita and surrounding communities. 

Tax preparation assistance will be provided every Wednesday between the hours of 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.  This service is provided by appointment only to ensure personal attention and to avoid lengthy wait times.  Appointments can be scheduled starting January 11th by calling Karen Hume with The Bell Tower Foundation at (949)216-9700 extension 1254.  At that time further information will be provided to ensure eligibility requirements are met and to inform you of the specific documents that are required to be brought to your scheduled appointment.  

The tax returns will be prepared in the COX Communications Technology Center located in the Bell Tower Regional Community Center located at 22232 El Paseo, (Civic Plaza) Rancho Santa Margarita.

All tax preparation volunteers have been specially trained and certified by the Internal Revenue Service for preparation of both federal and state tax returns.  All tax returns will be E-filed to ensure a high degree of accuracy and clients can expect quick refunds through direct deposit.  They also will provide tax forms to the public and answer general tax questions on a “walk in” basis. 

Tom Rogers, who is the Local Site Coordinator and Instructor for Tax Aide AARP, commented that the facilities and equipment at the Bell Tower Regional Community Center will allow volunteers to increase the number of people assisted.