Goodwill, United Way coalition continue free tax prep services

 3/5/2015

Our local coalition providing free tax preparation assistance is working around the snow and ice to get its services to those who qualify.

Even though the latest round of winter weather has caused closures at sites, the group of community organizations led by the Tulsa Area United Way forges ahead.

Goodwill® is a member of the coalition that includes the Tulsa Area United Way, Tulsa Community College, East Side Christian Church, Tulsa Dream Center and The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges. The coalition is part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program coordinated by the Internal Revenue Service.

Trained volunteers are providing tax assistance at several locations across the region. 

Any individual or family with a whole household income of less than $53,000 is eligible for free tax assistance.

“We are trying to reach the low to moderate income taxpayer who may be entitled to the federal government’s earned income tax credit or child tax credit,” said Cindy Longacre, coordinator of the tax program for the Tulsa Area United Way. “Last year, the coalition assisted 1,300 families with their taxes, and secured more than $1.5 million in tax refunds, which came back into the local economy,” Longacre said. “We have had a very high volume of those seeking assistance, and preparation services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.” 

In addition, the United Way partner agency LIFE Senior Services is offering assistance to those over the age of 60 through their Tax Counseling for the Elderly program. Trained IRS-certified volunteers are available to help seniors, making $53,000 or less annually, with free, basic income tax preparation and electronic filing.

Many area residents may not be aware that they qualify for the federal government’s earned income tax credit, a significant tax benefit for those at a certain income level, Longacre said.

“We can help individuals determine if they qualify for the earned income tax credit,” she said. “Many people may be eligible for a sizeable tax rebate and not realize it.”

Information regarding days, times and locations is available by calling the 211 helpline.

MORE

• Those who would like to prepare their own tax returns may use a free instructional tool provided by the federal government and available on the Tulsa Area United Way’s website.
• Goodwill works with partners on free tax preparation