RAF Lakenheath tax center: Over 1,000 served

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Nicholasa Reed
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- --  Since the RAF Lakenheath tax center opened Jan. 24, the specialists there have processed more than 1, 000 federal and state returns and expect to double the number before June 15.

The center's staff of two and depends on the 17 unit tax advisors who regularly volunteer there to help process returns.

Tax advisors at the center receive a basic tax preparer' s course and an advanced course from an Internal Revenue Service agent.

The center processes tax returns free of charge for active duty members, retirees, department of defense civilians and dependents.

There are a number of programs on the market people can purchase or access online to complete their tax return, according to Tech. Sgt. Cheryl White, NCO in-charge of the tax center.

"Depending on the type of return you're processing it can cost you anywhere from $60 to $300 dollars," said Sergeant White, "the more difficult the return the more it will cost to process (with a commercial product). Our program is free." 

But some people prefer to go over their taxes with someone face-to-face.

"I prefer to sit down with someone and have my taxes prepared," said Airman 1st Class Jessica Snow, 48th Communications Squadron, who recently had her taxes prepared by the Lakenheath office. "The woman who helped me was really helpful, thorough and quick."

While the tax center has already processed numerous returns and has many more scheduled their work will not be finished April 15.

Individuals stationed outside the U.S. are allowed an automatic two-month extension, from the regular April 15 deadline to file 2006 returns and pay any federal income taxes due.

"However, if you owe the government money you will have to pay the amount by April 16," said Sergeant White. "Interest is charged from April 16, until the date the tax is paid."

Those serving in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty may be eligible for a longer extension to file.

In order to expedite the process, clients are advised to bring all necessary paperwork to their appointment.

"Failure to have the necessary items prevents us from completing their returns," said Sergeant White. 

Most returns are currently taking two to three weeks to process, added Sergeant White.

Documents necessary for completing returns include; Social security cards for all dependents, daycare information, if applicable; W-2s, routing and account numbers.

"The tax center still has a lot of work left to be done this season," said Sergeant White. "We can still use volunteers, even if it's only for one hour a day, every little bit helps." 

For more information call the tax center at 226-1807.