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Health & Fitness

Tax Time is Here- Margot Ferron

Many people are under the impression that seniors are rich; it is quite the opposite.   Most seniors are on fixed incomes and by the time they pay for rent, medications, transportation to doctor’s appointments, food, etc., there isn’t much left.

In 1981 the California Senior Legislature was established to represent seniors, people who are 60 years or older throughout the state.   CSL is not funded by taxes and doesn’t receive funds from the federal, state, county or city.

The only funds CSL receives are from the state’s check off Code 402 on your California Income Tax form 540 –“CA Fund for Senior Citizens.”

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Contributions for the California Fund for Senior Citizens provides for legislation to improve and protect seniors at Adult Day Care centers, nutrition centers, long term care, respite care, senior citizens abuse prevention programs and senior legislature.

CSL, Senior volunteers advocate on behalf of seniors and propose legislation in areas of community services, health, housing and transportation.

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CSL must raise $250,000 from contributions each year to continue to operate.   The state deducts $40,000 a year to administer the funds.  Excess contributions are distributed to senior citizen service organizations throughout California.

If you need assistance completing your taxes, AARP offers free assistance for low to moderate income taxpayers who qualify and seniors.  

At most of the locations you will need an appointment.  Call the Information and Assistance Line at 1/800-510-2020 or 1/714-567-7500.

Don’t forget to check Code 402 to contribute to CSL. 

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