TUPPER LAKE — For the fourth year running, free help in preparing income tax returns will be available in Tupper Lake.

The Tax-Aide program, which operates under the umbrella of the AARP Foundation, uses IRS-trained and certified volunteers to provide help in preparing and filing federal and state returns.

The Tupper Lake team will once again meet with area residents by appointment, on Sunday afternoons in the Goff-Nelson Library Community Room, from Jan. 29 through mid-April.

The program is open to any individuals, seniors or families desiring assistance, and is not limited by age or income level; participants do not need to live in Tupper Lake, or be an AARP member.

The only limits on eligibility involve the complexity of the return; some more complicated tax situations may be beyond the scope of the program.

Volunteers are re-trained and IRS-certified every year to ensure they understand the latest changes to the U.S. Tax Code. They also adhere to strict rules of ethics and confidentiality.

To schedule an appointment, start by picking up an advance meeting packet at the library, then phone 518-359-5012; leave a message and your call will be returned. 

Appointments are recommended; walk-ins will only be accommodated if a tax preparer is available. More information about the program, including what documents are needed, is available online at aarpfoundation.org/taxaide, or by emailing 141028051@aarpfoundation.org.