CPAs offering free tax help by phone

The Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants will sponsor its annual state CPA Tax Hotline today from 3 to 7 p.m.

“This year, the 2007 federal tax filing deadline is April 17,” said Tommie Vassel, CPA, president of the non-profit, professional association. “Since April 15 falls on a Sunday, and Monday, April 16, is a legal holiday in the District of Columbia, taxpayers have two extra days to pay their taxes. But, despite the ‘extra’ time, it’s important to complete your tax returns accurately and timely. When you’re in a rush to get it done, it’s more likely that you’ll make mistakes n and mistakes can cost you money.”

Most mistakes, he said, don’t involve math at all.

“A missing or incorrect Social Security number is one of the most common mistakes taxpayers make,” Vassel explained. “Be sure to list the correct Social Security number for yourself, your spouse and any independents.”

Transposed numbers, unsigned joint returns and forgetting to include a check for monies owed can also cause taxpayers headaches, he said.

“Make your check payable to the U.S. Treasury n not the IRS, and send the return to the correct processing center,” he warns. “The IRS has changed the filing locations for several areas, so if you didn’t receive an envelope with your tax package, check the ‘Where Do You File’ section in your tax instruction book.”

Vassel said although the tips may seem simple, a number of returns are delayed because people overlook the small stuff.

Each year the LCPA sponsors the public service event with the help of over 100 CPA members. Callers can get help with their basic personal or corporate tax questions.

The Louisiana CPA Tax Hotline can be reached at (877) 852-1040.