Help for seniors filing income tax returns in Hempstead

Hempstead Town’s Department of Senior Enrichment will start Monday to help senior citizens file their annual income tax returns.

Volunteers will help seniors and residents with limited incomes prepare their income tax returns at senior centers and local libraries throughout the town from now until the April 15 filing deadline, officials said.

The free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is offered in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service. All VITA tax preparers are resident volunteers who have been trained by both agencies.

Seniors who attend one of the tax preparation sessions must bring their 2012 tax return, W-2 form, 1099 form (for interest, dividends, capital gains, pensions, IRAs and annuities), 2012 general and school tax receipts, STAR exemption records, Social Security cards and photo identification, officials said.

Most VITA sites require that an appointment be made in advance.

To get the VITA program schedule, call the Senior Enrichment Department at 516-485-8100 or visit the town’s website.