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Step 1
Create a list of tax documents that your elderly family member needs for his taxes. Give this list to the older person and ask him to keep the documents in a place that is easily accessible for both of you. The earlier in the year you perform this step, the less hunting for papers you may have to do as tax time approaches.
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Step 2
Locate a tax counseling service for the elderly. AARP offers a well-known site online that can help you begin the search in your community. Other non-profits offer similar services.
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Step 3
Set up an appointment with the tax counseling center. If you are going with your elderly family member to the appointment, try to schedule early in the tax season so there are more appointments available to choose from. This is especially true if you need a bilingual tax counselor.
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Step 4
Make special arrangements to have the tax counselor come to your elderly family member's home or nursing home if necessary. There are a few tax services that do this, but you must book your tax appointment with them especially early in the tax season.
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Step 5
Gather your documents. You need to take a copy of last year's tax return; W-2 forms; 1099 forms, including form SSA-1099 from Social Security and forms indicating federal income tax paid. If you plan to itemize deductions, bring receipts for medical expenses, taxes, mortgage interest paid as well as charitable contributions. Also take the social security numbers for everyone in the household.
