Springtime means tax time, and this year's deadline is just nine days away -- April 17. There are many statewide tax preparation assistance programs. If you qualify, you can even get these services for free. Here are a few places to start:Minnesota Department of Revenue
A good first step to finding local tax clinics is to use the search engine on the department website. People who qualify for free tax preparation include individuals earning $30,000 or less, families earning $50,000 or less, people with disabilities and senior citizens.
Website: taxes.state.mn.us
AccountAbility Minnesota
The service prepares your taxes for free if you earn $30,000 or less, or if your family earns $50,000 or less. AccountAbility has 12 tax sites this year. "We are linked with several local communities so people are aware of our services," said Executive Director Tracy Fischman.
Website: accountabilitymn.org
AARP Tax Aide Program
This is a free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that focuses on helping low- to middle-income taxpayers who are senior citizens.
Website: www.aarp.org/money/taxes/
Also check your local library or community center to see if they are offering tax assistance.
SUNNY THAO
