Federal income tax season this year is Jan. 27 through Apr. 15. As taxpayers get their documents in order and prepare to file, the Newburgh Free Library can help in a number of ways; both the Main Library (124 Grand Street) and the Town Branch (Newburgh Mall) offer a variety of resources. The library does not provide financial, tax or legal advice, but staff is always happy to help patrons find information, and a limited number of federal and state tax forms will be available at both locations.

Additionally, IRS-certified volunteers from the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program are offering free tax preparation help sessions to anyone at the Main Library. You must make an appointment in advance to reserve your spot - walk-ins will not be accepted. If you would like to take advantage of this free service, registration for the AARP Free Tax Help opens on Wed., Jan. 15. To register for an appointment, call 211, or 800-899-1479. If you register, remember to bring identity documents and social security or Medicare card, last year’s tax return and any tax-related documents.

Available appointment times are on Tuesdays between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. (beginning Feb. 4 and ending Apr. 14); and from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 3 Saturdays during the season (Feb. 22, Mar. 7 and Apr. 11). All free tax help sessions will take place in the Main Library’s e-Learning Center.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention to the older population. However, it is not necessary to be a retiree or an AARP member to utilize this free service; call 1-888-687-2277 to see if you are eligible.

For more information on documentation required for tax filing, or to locate another AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site, visit aarp.org/findtaxhelp or call 1-888-AARP-NOW (1-888-227-7669).

For information or to find out how to become a tax volunteer, call 888-687-2277. For information about other library programs, please call 845-563-3625.