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SAN JUAN ISLAND LIBRARY

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MORE COLUMNS

Tax forms and more at your local library

One of the questions we get the most this time of year is "Do you have tax forms?" and I'm happy to answer "Yes!" I'm happy to say this because I always love to help people find what they need but also because I've actually worked in some libraries where this question brings a feeling of "ugh" to library staff. If you can believe it some libraries don't even carry any tax forms and say they cannot assist patrons in finding them.

I never understood why a public library would draw the line at helping someone find information at tax forms. If anyone came looking for any other governmental or legal form, we unquestionably see it as our duty to help. But that's enough of my personal rant; let's get back to how we can help you this tax season.

I will admit we only have limited forms and instructions readily available. These include the most commonly requested 1040A, 1040EZ, and 1040. We also have many of the accompanying 1040 schedules.

But do not fear! We have two binders of many more of the IRS forms to photocopy as well as a CD with forms to print. And honestly I most frequently go directly to the IRS website where you can view and print IRS forms, instructions, regulations, and other tax information.

Once you have your forms and instructions, we have some other books to help you fill them out. These include:

  • J.K. Lasser's Small Business Taxes: Your Complete Guide to a Better Bottom Line (2008)

  • J.K. Lasser's 1001 Deductions and Tax Breaks 2008: Your Complete Guide to Everything Deductible

  • J. K. Lasser's Your Income Tax 2008 Taxes for Dummies 2008

Keep in mind library staff cannot provide tax advice. Please believe me when I say we are in no way qualified tax advisors. We can help you find forms and instructions or direct you where to go for qualified tax assistance.

Typically free tax assistance is offered on-island, but I haven’t seen a schedule for this yet. I will keep my eye out and when it’s available the information will be at the library.

Remember the most accurate and current income tax information can be found at the Internal Revenue Service’s Web site. They have made it pretty easy to find what you are looking for, but be sure to come to us if you need any help.

Happy tax season!

Laura Tretter, Director
San Juan Island Library
360.378.2798
ltretter@sjlib.org

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