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Pulling back the curtains on wage-theft enforcement in MN; Trump's latest attack is on RFK, Jr; NM LGBTQ+ equality group endorses 2024 'Rock Star' candidates; Michigan's youth justice reforms: Expanded diversion, no fees.

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Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says rebuilding Baltimore's Key Bridge will be challenging and expensive. An Alabama Democrat flips a state legislature seat and former Connecticut senator Joe Lieberman dies at 82.

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Historic wildfires could create housing and health issues for rural Texans, a Kentucky program helps prison parolees start a new life, and descendants of Nicodemus, Kansas celebrate the Black settlers who journeyed across the 1870s plains seeking self-governance.

Helping Iowans at Tax Time ... and it's Free!

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Thursday, February 15, 2007   


For many Iowans, saving a few hundred dollars at tax time can be a huge blessing. And free tax preparation can do just that. Kay Vignovich is district coordinator for the AARP Iowa "Tax Aide" program, a free service provided by volunteers trained as tax preparers.

"Our service is geared towards the elderly, but we do accept each and every person, no matter what their income."

Vignovich also has a warning: This time of year, you might be tempted by the so-called "refund anticipation loans" offered by many businesses. In fact, they'll take a percentage of your refund in exchange for slightly quicker cash back. Patience, she says, is key.

"That's just more money spent, and you get a little bit less back."

Vignovich adds the 2006 tax year brings at least one tax change that some might overlook -- a refund of the federal long distance telephone tax. Of course, with a trained tax volunteer from AARP Iowa, you're not likely to miss that one! There are 80 locations throughout the state now offering "Tax Aide" assistance. To find the one nearest you, go to www.aarp.org/taxaide.

Last year about 200 AARP volunteers helped more than 22,000 Iowans with their income tax returns.



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