Making Tax Season Easy As... Published Jan. 28, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Veronica Pierce 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- Tax season is upon us, so it's time to get the process started. Filing taxes can be a tedious and even daunting task for some, but the Incirlik Tax Resource Center is available to the community with tools needed for filing federal and state tax returns. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program counselors are available for those who may need more assistance with their tax returns, but another unique tool now being offered is the use of online tax services. "This year, the legal office will be utilizing Military OneSource as another option for individuals to file their taxes in addition to the traditional VITA program," said Staff Sgt. James Dorris, 39th Air Base Wing Legal Office, NCO in-charge of general law. "Military OneSource can significantly expedite the filing process for those who are eligible." There are many benefits to using online services to file your taxes. One significant benefit is that you can file your taxes yourself whenever you want. This bypasses the hassle of waiting for the next available tax counselor who may already be helping another customer. Additionally, it could save you a trip to the Tax Center only to find out you didn't bring all the necessary paperwork. According to Military OneSource, the site provides access to online tax filing service at no cost to all active duty military members and their families, as well as National Guard members and members of the reserve. For civilian federal employees who are not eligible for the free online services, the Incirlik Tax Resource Center is available to assist. "We understand that not everyone can use Military OneSource, and we'll be able to screen people as they come to the tax center to determine the most appropriate avenue for filing their taxes," said Dorris. "If an individual is not eligible to use the online service, we will help file returns for most basic filers through the VITA program. However, for those ineligible for either program, a counselor at the Incirlik Tax Resource Center may recommend using a commercial provider." All services offered by the tax center are free of charge. As you prepare for this tax season, the Incirlik Tax Resource Center recommends members gather the following tax documents before stopping in or requesting an appointment: Your bank routing and account numbers Social Security number and birth dates for you, your spouse, and dependents Childcare, education (books & supplies receipts), and adoption costs W-2 Forms for all employers for you and your spouse Investment income forms (1099 INT, 1099 DIV, 1099B) Alimony information (receipts, SSNs, amount) Social Security benefits Miscellaneous income Form 1098-E for student loan interest Form 1098 for home mortgage interest Charitable donation receipts Medical and dental expenses Real estate taxes Last year's tax return The center will open Feb. 10 to April 19, Mondays through Thursdays, from 8 a.m. to noon. The center is located in the 39th ABW Legal Office, Building 833, on the second floor. To contact the Incirlik center or the GSU near you, please contact the following: Staff Sgt. James Dorris, 676-6800 (Incirlik) Tech. Sgt. Laquita Pierce, 675-6705 (Izmir) Mr. Cliff Hunter, 672-4177 (Ankara) You may also access Military OneSource from your home or office at http://www.militaryonesource.mil.