For Hometown news
MARTIN COUNTY --
United Way of Martin County empathizes with local working-class residents who are reeling due to recent tax hikes stemming from the fiscal cliff crisis.
A pay cut means less money for families and individuals to spend on life's necessities, which is why the United Way believes no moderate- to low-income households should pay someone to file their income taxes.
Each year, United Way helps residents with a household income of $51,000 or less, keep their hard-earned money by offering free income tax preparation through the volunteer income tax assistance program.
Last year alone, United Way helped 300 low- and moderate-income individuals and families receive a total of $260,000 in tax refunds by taking advantage of tax breaks such as the earned income tax credit.
Beginning Jan. 28, United Way's IRS-trained volunteers will once again assist low- to moderate-income residents with their taxes for free, by appointment only, Monday through Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the United Way office, 10 S.E. Central Parkway, Suite 101, Stuart.
Any local taxpayer who received wages or self-employment income and made less than $51,000 qualifies for this program.
Those who don't qualify for the United Way program can still have their taxes done for free through AARP's Tax-Aide program that serves people of any age on a walk-in basis at select Martin County Library branches.
Clients of either program are asked to bring the following:
Social Security card along with photo ID.
Social Security for other people on tax forms
2011 tax return and all 2012 tax information. including W-2s, 1099s and stock information.
United Way and AARP sites do not prepare business taxes, Schedule C, EZ or forms for rental property, trusts, limited partnerships or paper returns.
Call (772)283-4800 to schedule an appointment at United Way's VITA site or 2-1-1 for more information.