(NAPSI)—Many Americans are helping each other, others in need and themselves by assisting with tax preparation.

Free, individualized tax preparation is available to low- and moderate-income taxpayers—especially those 60 and older—from the volunteer-based AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program.

A cadre of 36,000 trained volunteers assists with tax services and ensures taxpayers get applicable tax credits and deductions, which helps them have more discretionary income for everyday essentials such as food and housing.

This is offered in cooperation with the IRS. It’s the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention to the older population. You do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service. The Foundation is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50 and over by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation.

Taxpayers who file a federal tax return with a refund due to them can also get help investing the money in America’s future. They can purchase savings bonds in multiples of $50, up to $5,000, using all or a portion of their refund.

Three more things to consider:

1. Make sure you have all your paperwork: government-issued ID; receipts for health care; mortgage interest; charitable gifts; and all W-2 and 1099 forms.

2. To get your refund faster, bring a checkbook if you want to direct deposit funds.

3. Please review your return(s) to make sure they are complete and accurate.

Learn More

You can find further information, including nearby Foundation Tax-Aide locations—sites generally include senior centers, libraries and the like—at www.aarp.org/findtaxhelp and (888) 227-7669.

On the Net:North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.(NAPSI)