Well, income tax time is upon us and Uncle Sam is rattling your piggy bank again. But there are ways to keep more of your money locked away and working for you.

• Talk to (your mortgage consultant/me) about paying off credit card debts with a tax-deductible loan.
• Claim volunteer expenses. You can claim mileage and volunteer costs, like that Girl Scout leader uniform.
• Give gently-used clothes and furniture to charity. You can deduct their fair-market value or 15 to 20 percent of their original cost.
• Pay for your parents' medical bills directly. It's a tax deduction, but keep in mind that your total unreimbursed medical expenses must exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income.
• Claim your child-care credit. Even if you work at home but pay somebody to watch your kids, you can claim the deduction.

And don't forget the following common items people often leave behind when consulting their tax preparer:

• Social Security Numbers. You'll need all the numbers for yourself, your spouse and any dependents.
• Estimated Tax Payments. Find the exact amounts and dates.
• Sale of Property. Your accountant will need to see all the paperwork involved.
• Child Care Credit. You should have the name, address and I.D. number for all your child-care providers.
• Social Security Benefits. In short, bring Form SSA-1099.
• Contribution Receipts. A receipt is necessary for any single contribution of $250 or more.

And keep in mind that if you don't know a good tax preparer, just give me a call. I can recommend one who will give you world-class service.