Did you know that taxpayers spend over 3.5 billion hours each year preparing for and completing their tax forms?* Given that the instructions for the forms seem to increase each year, this number is likely to increase. Even if you’re among the 3-in-5 Americans who pays a professional to complete their tax forms, there are ways to streamline the process and make it as painless as possible.^*

This month's timely information is designed to help you prepare for tax time. Page one offers tips to help you become organized, including things to keep in mind if you bought a home, got married or donated to a charity in 2011. Page two provides an overview of three of the most popular tax preparation software programs on the market. Feel free to share this pertinent information with your family or friends.

Please call me if you would like a referral to a tax preparer in our local area.

* Source: President’s Advisory Panel on Federal Tax Reform