Merced Community Senior Center, Merced
March 2008
The Merced Community Senior Center, in conjunction with the Merced City Parks and Recreation Department, provides FREE tax counseling and return preparation to seniors and low- to middle-income taxpayers. AARP District Coordinator Dorothy Glaus coordinates the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) volunteer program. Currently, 34 volunteers contribute time to this active program of 25 years, helping taxpayers file their returns by April 15.
The site provides free parking, and accommodates wheelchairs and walkers. Taxpayers are assisted on a first-come, first-served basis from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, until April 15. Volunteers at 12 stations stand ready to file returns electronically. Electronic filing, with direct deposit, can provide a refund within 5 to 7 business days.
This year, the center added four to six volunteers to assist those who must file a federal tax return just to receive an Economic Stimulus Rebate.
Last year the Merced site assisted 1,300 individuals. This year, in just the first 7 days of operation, they helped 500 individuals! This tax season will, no doubt, be another very active one for the center. When asked what identifies the Merced Center as a success, Dorothy replied:
“Our strength is in the dedication of our volunteers. They are a knowledgeable, caring, and friendly group, who enjoy what they do!”
Locate a VITA/TCE site near you or learn how to become a volunteer in your area.
Other VITA/TCE sites of the month:
February 2008 | March 2008 | April 2008