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United Way, AARP offering free tax prep

United Way of Martin County intends to help local residents keep more of their hard-earned cash this tax season through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.

Beginning Feb. 1, United Way's IRS-trained volunteers will assist low- to moderate-income residents with their taxes for free - by appointment only - Monday through Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the United Way office, 10 S.E. Central Parkway, Suite 101, Stuart.

Any local taxpayer who received wages or self-employment income and made less than $50,000 qualifies for this program. Last year, 177 low- and moderate income individuals and families took advantage of the program and received $252,000 in tax refunds.

Those who don't qualify for the United Way program can still have their taxes done for free through AARP's Tax-Aide program that serves people of any age on a walk-in basis at select Martin County Library Branches.

Clients of either program are asked to bring the following:

• Social Security card along with photo ID
• Social Security for other people on tax forms
• 2010 tax return and all 2011 tax information including W-2s, 1099s and stock information

AARP and VITA sites do not prepare business taxes, expect for Schedule CEZ or forms for rental property, trusts, limited partnerships or paper returns.

Call 772-283-4800 or 561-616-2016 for more information or to schedule an appointment.