Patch Picks: Tax Preparation Resources in and Around Redmond

With the gloomy weather this week, it might be a good time to hunker down and prepare to file your taxes, and with any luck, a check or electronic deposit will soon be on its way to you. We found some resources to help you get the deed done, and be more prepared when tax time rolls around next year.

1. Tax assistance is available every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the  through April 16. AARP volunteers provide free tax assistance preparation to those in need on a first come, first served basis.  No appointments are necessary, but you need to bring a copy of last year's tax return and any current tax documents with you.
2. If you can’t make it on Saturdays, the AARP volunteers also are offering assistance at the North Bellevue Community Center, 4063 148th Ave NE, on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but they do ask that you make an appointment. For more information, call 425-452-7681
3. Looking for a professional to help you prepare your taxes? It’s important to hire a company you trust. The Better Business Bureau offers listings of BBB accredited businesses, and a function for consumers to check the ratings of individual companies.
4. Planning to do it yourself this year? Don’t forget that the IRS is offering “Freefile ” online filing using tax filing software to households that had an adjusted gross income of less than $58,000, and anyone at all can use the basic e-file forms available at www.irs.gov free of charge, regardless of income.
5. Is this the year you plan to organize all of your financial information? Check out the Redmond Patch Directory for stores where you can buy tax and record-keeping software to make sure you are ready for next tax season.

About this column: Patch Picks is a new weekly feature that highlights editor and reader picks of great local businesses, destinations, services, organizations, ways to spend a day off, and more. 

You’ll find useful lists to help you, your family, friends, and significant others find the best places for everything from Sunday brunch to New Year’s Eve celebrations, pumpkin patches, date night destinations, florists, girlfriend nights out, kids party places, parks and more. 

Have an idea for the next Patch Picks? Submit it in the comment box or send an e-mail to caitlin.moran@patch.com.