POINT PLEASANT — Four AARP volunteers trained to provide free assistance in preparing income tax returns plan to be at the Mason County Public Library in Point Pleasant from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, March 7, weather permitting.

The library staff currently is setting appointments for the service, available at no cost to middle- and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to those age 60 and older.

The tax advisors, certified by the Internal Revenue Service, offer confidential and free tax preparation with the electronic filing option, for basic federal and state tax forms.

Nationally, the tax aide program started in 1968 with four volunteers who served 100 people. The AARP Foundation program now has more than 32,000 volunteers.

To make preparation easier, residents should bring a copy of the previous year’s tax return, employer W-2 forms, all 1099 forms showing interest and/or dividends, Social Security benefits, retirement pension or annuity and forms indicating federal income tax that has been paid.

Other documents, if applicable, include unemployment compensation statements, child-care provider name, employer identification and Social Security numbers, and, if itemizing, receipts or canceled checks for deductions.

Social Security numbers of dependents also should be provided and senior citizens should bring information on state property tax paid on owner-occupied homes in 2008.

For joint returns, both parties need to sign the completed document.

To schedule an appointment for March 7, stop by the library or call 304-675-0894 during regular hours. The library is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday except holidays or when closed due to inclement weather.