DEAR SUN SPOTS: Is it too early to ask where and when seniors can get their income tax returns done free? As always, thank you for any information.—Richard, no town
ANSWER: It’s not too early to ask. According to the AARP web site, the Tax-Aide locator will launch in mid-January and sites will open in early February. So you have to wait just a bit longer. I’m pretty certain the locations will be the same as always and will let you know as soon as I find out for sure.
If you want to check on your own, input your zip code on the AARP Foundation Tax Aide Locator tool at https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations.html .
In the meantime, you can get started by finding out what documents you will need to help prepare your tax return regarding income, payments, deductions, adjustments, credits, health insurance, etc. before your appointment by going to https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-01-2011/important-tax-documents.html .
The program, aimed at taxpayers 50 and older, is free and doesn’t require AARP membership. You’ll get assistance from volunteers certified by the Internal Revenue Service. You can even get your tax return sent electronically for free, which will speed your refund.
I haven’t seen any locations announced for CA$H Maine yet but will keep an eye out for that too. They may just be preparing the returns remotely, but we’ll find out.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: In the December 26 Sun Spots, a letter was published from a person looking for a VHS player. I have a new one but it needs a remote control device which they could get at Wal-Mart.
There was no phone number for the person requesting the player. I’ll give it to her; all she has to do is call me at 782-1157 and come get it in Lewiston.—Mary, Lewiston
DEAR SUN SPOTS: To the reader who is looking for a VHS player, I have one. It hasn’t been used for a long time because we use DVDs now. The person can call me at 784-3389 and leave a message if we are not home.—Ann, Auburn
ANSWER: Thank you, ladies, for your generosity!
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I read about an organization that picks up used medical supplies, refurbishes them, and gives them to needy countries. I have lost that information. Could you please publish it again?—Constance, no town
ANSWER: You are remembering Partners for World Health (https://www.partnersforworldhealth.org/medicalsupplydonations) at 40 Walch Dr. in Portland. PWH collects donated medical supplies and equipment from medical facilities (hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, etc.), organizations and individuals.
You can contact the nonprofit at 774-5555 to make an appointment for drop-off. On the website, you’ll see a long list of what they can accept. I don’t think they do pick-up at this time, but you can ask.
This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.
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