H&R Block Offers Tax Advice

Salem-News.com's Tim King talks with an H&R Block Tax pro about things people need to know this tax season.

Elaine Smith is an enrolled agent and master tax advisor for H&R Block

(KANSAS CITY, Mo.) - With nearly 300 tax law changes in effect this tax season, it is no surprise that taxpayers have many questions.

A recent survey from The Tax Institute at H&R Block revealed that nearly 72 percent of individuals are confused about how these new changes will affect their tax return.

As we learn in this interview, tax specialists can help taxpayers navigate recent tax law changes, including unemployment compensation, child tax credits, higher education credits, homeowner benefits and more.

“More than 95 percent of taxpayers were impacted by last year’s mega tax legislation – and many taxpayers still have questions,” said Amy McAnarney, executive director of The Tax Institute at H&R Block.

“With tax filing season nearing the April 15 deadline, March madness could quickly turn into April anxiety. Now is the time for answers – especially with today’s sluggish economy and near record-high unemployment.”

Elaine Smith with H&R Block, tells Tim that last year, H&R Block agents provide needed answers for difficult questions, ranging from issues dealing with earned income tax credits and education credits, to the first-time homebuyer’s credit and advice for small business owners.

Elaine Smith is an enrolled agent and master tax advisor for H&R Block. Since joining the company in 2004, she has specialized in investment/stock options, home ownership, health care expenses, charitable giving, retirement income, military, self-employed taxpayers and tax planning.

Prior to that, Elaine worked as an IT professional at Hallmark Cards. Elaine has a masters in business administration from Rockhurst University and a bachelor's degree in computer management systems from Northwest Missouri State University.

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