COSTA MESA : Volunteers Busy Helping With Taxes

Volunteers have been doing a lot of business handling income tax returns at the Costa Mesa Senior Center.

Since February, volunteers have helped file more than 200 returns for low-income families, senior citizens and non-English-speaking residents, said Walt Montgomery, in charge of the free tax-assistance program that will last until April 12.

“So far we’ve had some full days,” Montgomery said. “But looking at the schedule, you can tell that the number of people are beginning to drop off. I suspect that most people already have their tax returns done.”

Montgomery said an average of 16 clients a day have showed up to take advantage of the free assistance, offered by six volunteers Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 1 to 4 p.m. at the center, at 695 W. 19th St.