Tax time can be stressful no matter what your age. But for seniors on a fixed income, and those who care for them, it can be especially so. Here are some resources from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) that may help lighten the load.

1.  Tax relief programs. NCOA has a free online BenefitsCheckUp® service that can help you find programs that may lower your annual property tax bills or get a tax credit from other local programs. Savings average from $500 – $2,000 annually if you qualify. Go to www.benefitscheckup.org.
2. Free tax assistance. The IRS offers free tax help for people aged 60 and over through their Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program. The program offers self-assistance service as well as certified volunteers to guide you through the tax filing process. For more information check out the Tax Counseling for the Elderly page on the IRS site.
3. Tax scam protection. Older adults are common targets for scammers at tax time. This year a new scam was reported that tricks lower income seniors into filing for fraudulent refunds or stimulus payments. In San Diego, scammed homeowners received personal letters offering a paid reassessment to reduce taxes. The NCOA website has information about scams and how to protect yourself here
4. Tax law changes. The Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement offers a 2011 Tax Update with changes in the tax law that might affect your situation.
5.  Tax refund advice. If you receive a tax refund, it’s a great opportunity to add to your savings for those unexpected expenses that crop up during the year. You may also want to consider U.S. Savings Bonds. New tax forms now include purchase options for U.S. Savings Bonds.

If you feel that any of these resources could help you save money on your 2011 tax return, talk to your tax preparer and see whether you need to file an extension so you can take advantage of them. The tax deadline (April 17 this year) is approaching, but it may be worth filing an extension if these resources will help you.