Tax season is always a busy and frustrating time for everyone. When it gets closer to the date (April 15), many people are forced to make rash decisions that may put a big dent in their wallets.

It is important for residents to be very familiar with these terms: tax preparation fees, rapid refunds, refund anticipation loans, interest rates and any other additonal fees. If you're not, it may cost you dearly.

Advice: Make sure to ask your preparer to see a list of fees or ask what kinds of charges should you anticipate before they prepare your taxes.

Did you know that there are four free tax clinics in the community?

ACORN 196 Adams St. Dorchester, MA 02122 Carolyn Martin p:(617) 436-7100 blaquebird47@yahoo.com Hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-9pm

Codman Square Tech Center 450 Washington St. Dorchester, MA 02124 Jared Elosta p:(617) 822-8171 jared.elosta@dotwell.org www.codman.org Hours: Mon and Wed, 6p-8:00p; Sat, 10a-2p (walk-in only)

Dorchester House 1353 Dorchester Avenue Dorchester, MA 02122 Jared Elosta p:(617) 822-8171 jared.elosta@dotwell.org www.dorchesterhouse.org Hours: Mon and Wed, 6p-8p; Sat, 9:30a-12p (walk-in only)

Dorchester NSC 110 Claybourne St. Dorchester, MA 02124 Kim Marshall p:(617) 288-2700 x 200 www.bostonabcd.org/people/ dnsc.htm Hours: Mon-Thurs 2-5pm, Sat 10am-1pm (appointment only--call first)

For more information, click here