Liberty Tax Service Offering Educators Free Tax Preparation

It started with the goodie bags.

Last week, Heather Tomasello and employees from Liberty Tax Service stopped by dozens of local public and private chools offering chocolates and a note of thanks to teachers and administrators.

The goal was to spread the word about "Educator Appreciation Days," a program running through Sunday, March 4 that allows teachers, school employees, bus drivers and other academic professionals to receive free tax preparation if they are new customers to Tampa Bay area Liberty Tax offices. Returning customers receive 35 percent off tax preparation, Tomasello said.

"Our corporate office encourages us to be involved in the community," said Tomasello, who owns four Liberty Tax locations. "They spearhead these appreciation days, so we'll try to honor teachers, military, veterans, police officers or different groups in the community to say thanks."

Last year, three Liberty Tax offices participated, and about 30 teachers took advantage of the program.

Tomasello said her offices are also trying to make accessibility simple for teachers with busy schedules by keeping local Liberty Tax offices open later than usual. Those who are interested can also drop off documents required for tax preparation to a Liberty Tax office if they don't have time to make an appointment.

"I know it's a busy time for teachers, so we are open extended hours until 9 p.m. in the evening," she said. "We try to make it easy."

To schedule an appointment, call 813-444-1111, or stop by the following locations to drop off tax documents:

• 7713 W. Hillsborough Avenue
• 3697  W. Waters Avenue
• 9340 N. Florida
• 13608 University Plaza Street