• Depending on their circumstances, tax time can make folks apprehensive, exited, scared, or happy, or a mishmash of all those emotions. But with a tax code nearing 70,000 pages and tax prep companies that charge upwards of $250 a return, it can be especially worrisome for our elderly and retired citizens. Fortunately, there are advocates out there if you know where to look.
  
  

Tax Counseling for the Elderly

• Sponsored by the IRS, the TCE program provides tax help to people aged 60 and older at no charge. Approved in 1978, the program authorizes the IRS to join with nonprofit agencies to establish a system of trained volunteers to provide free assistance to elderly taxpayers. Trained volunteers provide counseling and basic tax return preparation for seniors. For information on the TCE program, call (800) 829-1040.
  
  

Tax-Aide

• The AARP offers counseling at more than 7,000 sites nationwide during tax season. Part of the IRS-sponsored TCE Program, the AARP provides certified Tax-Aide volunteer counselors to help those age 60 and older, but will also provide assistance to those of low-to-middle-class income. For those Internet savvy tax payers, the AARP's Website provides a plethora of information about the Tax-Aide program, as well as year-round tax assistance, help locating a Tax-Aid site and other valuable consumer information.
  
  

Volunteer Tax Assistance

• The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, sponsored by the IRS and various community organizations, provide certified volunteers to aid people who need help preparing their own tax returns. The volunteers proffer free tax preparation assistance to elderly, disabled, low-income and limited English speakers, and most locations provide free electronic filing. Closely linked to community organizations, most VITA sites are located at libraries, schools, community centers and the like. To find a VITA center near you, call (800) 829-1040.
  
  

Traditional Tax Preparation

• If you have the time and money, you might opt to just use a local tax prep company, whether a national chain or local business. Most of these companies charge by the form, so costs could potentially end up much higher than expected. Also, know that if you choose to receive your refund on the spot, the tax office considers it a loan, and they will deduct a noticeable portion as interest on that loan. However, most of these companies do offer free e-filing for direct deposit or checks, with pretty quick turnaround. As with any business, beware of scammers. If instructed to get 1099 statements for the last three years from Social Security, send up the red flag and hit the door.