Get more money back - fast and FREE tax preparation

Each tax season thousands of low and middle income families spend hundreds of dollars in hard earned income for tax preparation and rapid refund loans. That money could be saved and kept in the hands of the tax client by using one of the FREE Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites across the state. In 2010, households with incomes of $49,000 or less qualified for FREE tax preparation assistance from an IRS certified volunteer. Volunteers are specifically trained to help tax filers claim all their qualified credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Care Credit, Savers Credit, etc. Refunds were received within 7-10 days if using direct deposit. Tax filers also received information about community services, second chance banking products and other financial resources. Tax filers with household income of $56,000 or less also had an opportunity to prepare their own taxes for free by using Beehive, an online tax tool.

Next tax season, be prepared to save hundreds by visiting a VITA site nearest you. Call 2-1-1 to find the nearest free tax prep site!

Keep this information in a safe place and bring with you next year to the VITA site:

• Proof of identity
• Copies of ALL W-2, 1098, 1099 forms
• Social Security Card or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) card for all individuals listed on return
• Banking information (voided check and/or savings deposit slip) for direct deposit of refunds
• If e-filing a joint return, both spouses must be present to sign the return
• Amounts/Dates of estimated or other tax payments made, etc
• Child care providers’ identification number
• Amounts of other income