FORT JACKSON, S.C. (Feb. 5, 2015) -- The Fort Jackson Income Tax Assistance Center opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Jan. 28.
The center is offering free tax help to active-duty Service members, eligible dependents and retirees through April 15. Services are offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday at 4330 Magruder Ave.
"We are happy to begin serving the Fort Jackson community," said Capt. Collin Smith, a legal assistance attorney and commander of the Fort Jackson Tax Center.
Smith said the free tax preparation is the center's most significant benefit to its customers.
"Filing a 1040 in the state of South Carolina is $135, and filing a state tax return is $85, so you're looking at about $230 (in savings)," Smith said.
In addition to free tax preparation, Smith said customers can also file taxes electronically along with direct deposit for tax returns.
"However, there are some limitations to filing taxes here on post," Smith said. "We can only file taxes for those who have one home. We are unable to file taxes for those who have multiple homes."
He emphasized that married couples who want to file jointly must present a power of attorney in case one of the spouses cannot be present.
The Soldiers preparing taxes are trained and ready to serve the Fort Jackson community this tax season.
"All of our volunteer income tax assistants, who are Soldiers, are certified by the Internal Revenue Service, so we can provide the best services to the community," said Staff Sgt. Brandy Barnes, noncommissioned officer in charge at the tax center.
Barnes said the Soldiers are looking forward to serving the retirees and Service members.
"We are excited to give back to the personnel of Fort Jackson," Barnes said. "We know that we may see retirees from all over the state during this season, and so we are really excited and looking forward to the next three months."
Col. Michael Graese, Fort Jackson's garrison commander, spoke of his personal experiences with filing taxes at the center during the opening ceremony.
"I get my taxes done here every year," Graese said. "For a couple of years, I tried using an online self-prepared tax service, and I personally just didn't feel comfortable with it. ... Every time I leave the Army tax center I feel great. The Soldiers here always explain to me the details of my taxes before I walk out the door."
Graese said last year's numbers for the tax center spoke volumes about the staff's professionalism.
"Last year, we filed 2,392 total tax returns; more than $3 million in refunds were issued; and we helped save $295,000 in tax fees," Graese said.
For more information and appointments, please call (803) 751-JTAX (5829).
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