Free tax preparation will be available

By: centraljersey.com
Each year, millions of Americans are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), but don’t realize they qualify or don’t know how to claim it. They may be missing an opportunity to pay less federal income tax, pay no tax, or receive a refund. The EITC, a tax credit available to low-income workers and families, is a tool for taxpayers who work, but don’t earn high incomes and struggle to make ends meet.
To raise awareness of the EITC and increase participation among those who qualify, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and its community partners have joined forces to host Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites at locations around Hunterdon County, offering free tax preparation and assistance to attendees. Volunteers will help taxpayers learn more about the EITC, including whether or not they qualify and how to claim the credit. VITA volunteers will then work with the taxpayer to fill out the proper tax forms and e-file the tax return for the taxpayer.
The agencies in Hunterdon County sponsoring VITA sites starting in February include United Way of Hunterdon County, NORWESCAP, and Hunterdon County Senior Services.
Think you may be one of the hundreds of Hunterdon County residents eligible for the EITC? If you made less than $49,000 in 2010, you may qualify! Call 2-1-1 or Hunterdon Helpline at 1-800-272-4630 to schedule a free tax preparation appointment. Days and hours vary by location.