Pocono News Section

Central PA Tax Help Available

Central PA Tax Help Available - Friday, February 6, 2009 at 3:16PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Friday, Feb 6, 2009 @ 03:16pm EST
Williamsport, Lycoming County-

Filing taxes is an activity many people dread. But a program in Central Pennsylvania is taking some of the burden off of tax filers.

And the best part is, it doesn’t cost a penny.

William and Kathy Moore, of Trout Run, hate doing their taxes every year. Paying an accountant isn’t an attractive option, so they come to the Salvation Army for help.

William Moore said, “Actually it’s convenient. They work around your schedule a little bit. It’s quick and it’s easy and it’s cheap.”

Cheap is an understatement. Federal and state tax help is provided here completely free of charge.

People filing regular tax returns with an income under $45,000 are eligible for help. All the tax preparers here are certified by the I. R.S.

Site Coordinator Derek Botts noted, “The tax code is very confusing for a lot of people. This is a way for people with non-complicated returns to e-file their returns, get some help, and get their refunds back.”

It seems it’s the ease of the process that draws people to the program.

Moore explained, “It’s good for somebody that doesn’t know how to do their taxes themselves. They come in and these guys are certified, and they do it, and you’re done, you know?”

The tax assistance program is federally funded. If you plan to come in for help, bring your W-2 forms, social security card, last year’s tax returns, and any other pertinent information.

Kathy Moore added, “I really like coming here. I come here every year. We got good news, money’s coming back this year. Yes it is.”

You will need an appointment to take advantage of the tax assistance program.

It’s offered at the Salvation Army in Williamsport weekdays from 10-3, at Penn College in Williamsport weekdays from 4-6, and at the Muncy Library Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2-7.

The number to call is 570-326-9187.