AIDES EASE TAX WORRIES FOR BOOTHEEL AREA SENIOR CITIZENS

SIKESTON -- Senior citizens hold within them a lifetime of knowledge, yet sometimes even the wisest individuals come across something that completely has them stumped.

For many, the sources of that bewilderment are tax forms.

It's confusing, said Tana Kettles. "For one thing the print is so small the elderly can't see it. If you can't see it, you can't fill it out. And also, a lot of times you don't know what you're supposed to put on each line. It's simple if you understand what's going on but if you don't, it's not very easy." But Joan McClung admits it has been somewhat easier for the past several years, thanks to the American Association of Retired Persons Tax-Aide program, of which Kettles is a local volunteer. The group helps seniors and low income families wade through the filing process.

In cooperation with the Internal Revenue Service, the 32-year-old program is the largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation service, having assisted nearly 1,600,000 taxpayers nationwide in 1999.

"It means a lot to me to have this," McClung said.

"It's very handy for me. I really enjoyed sitting down with the volunteers and they take plenty of time with you. If this wasn't available I'd have to go out and find someone to do it and pay them. It'd be hard to find the money sometimes." Sikeston's Heritage House is one of approximately 250 Missouri sites where volunteers for AARP Tax Counseling for the Elderly will assist with 1999 federal and state tax returns. Last year 649 individuals took advantage of the opportunity locally.

Those needing help can come to the facility at 305 Cresap St. from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday and every Thursday after that through April 13. Because of the large amount of people expected to seek assistance, appointments must be made by calling the Heritage House at 471-6047.