June 27, 2016 – The Free Community Tax Service, a program of United Way of Monroe County and the Financial Stability Alliance for South Central Indiana, helped Monroe, Owen, and Greene county residents file more than 3,030 federal tax returns this spring.
Community partners, including Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), AARP Tax Counseling for the Elderly (AARP/TCE), and nearly 200 IRS-certified volunteers saved low- and moderate-income residents over $925,000 in tax preparation fees. Additionally, eligible individuals and families were assisted in claiming valuable credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which resulted in a refund of up to $6,242 for those who qualify.
Barry Lessow, United Way Executive Director, said, “The Free Community Tax Service provides a measurable impact on individuals and families in our area who are struggling to make ends meet. We are grateful to all the volunteers and partner organizations who came together and, according to national research, kept over 3,000 people, including 1,800 children, out of poverty. About 58% of local residents reported they are using their savings to pay bills, 27% are paying for food and clothing, and 21% are getting further on the road to financial stability by putting their refund in savings. When the Free Community Tax Service helps families, this also reduces demand on local agencies already overburdened providing essential services.”
At the eight VITA sites this year, community volunteers completed 1,678 tax returns. MyFreeTaxes.com, a free online alternative for state and federal taxes, allowed 412 taxpayers to file their taxes for free from the comfort of home. AARP Tax Counseling for the Elderly (AARP/TCE) administered sites at Twin Lakes Recreation Center and the Monroe County Public Library. Monroe County Public Library filed 577 returns and Twin Lakes Recreation Center filed 430 returns.
Jamie Kuzemka, United Way Community Initiatives Director, said, “The Free Community Tax service was successful this year thanks to the dedication and commitment of local organizations and volunteers. Nearly 200 volunteers contributed their time and effort to help file community members' taxes. Preparations for the 2017 tax season have already started to ensure we continue to build this important program.”
The Free Community Tax Service was made possible through grant funding from the IRS and AARP’s Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). United Way of Monroe County received a $25,400 grant from the IRS to reach underserved populations, enhance volunteer training, and raise awareness of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
Along with the United Way of Monroe County and the Financial Stability Alliance for South Central Indiana, partners of the Free Community Tax Service include 2-1-1, AARP, Ascend, Bloomington Housing Authority, Broadview Learning Center, City of Bloomington, Ellettsville Branch Library, Indiana Legal Services, Indiana University Maurer School of Law, Internal Revenue Service, Ivy Tech Community College-Bloomington, Kroger, LifeDesigns, Monroe County Public Library, New Leaf–New Life, Owen County Public Library, Positive Link, South Central Community Action Program, St. Paul Catholic Center, Stone Belt, Twin Lakes Recreation Center, Walmart, WorkOne Bloomington, and community volunteers.
>> Read more about the Free Community Tax Service
"I can't afford to pay to get my taxes done, and if I do it myself I'm not sure I'd be able to do it right. ...Without the volunteers I wouldn't be able to get it done right any other way." -- Rachelle, a Free Community Tax Service client. Pictured above with her son.