CAP Services partners with the IRS to offer the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program to help people file their taxes completely free of charge.
“Recent changes in tax law will not affect filing in the current season,” said Erin Olson, CAP’s Innovation and Engagement Coordinator. “Our focus remains on helping clients claim all the tax credits for which they’re eligible, which means more money in the pockets of families who need it, both in terms of savings and the refunds they receive.”
Olson said that taxpayers who utilized CAP’s program last year saved an average of more than $215 in filing fees. All told, households in Waupaca County saved $43,215 in fees and claimed over $250,000 in federal and state refunds. In Waushara County, households saved $45,580 in fees and claimed over $216,000 in federal and state refunds.
“We are dedicated to helping as many community members as we can and encourage taxpayers to be wary of preparers promising faster refunds through expensive financial products, like loans,” said Olson.
For the last 11 years, CAP has helped individuals and families through the VITA Program. Volunteer tax preparers go through at least 15 hours of training and are certified by the IRS.
“We make sure our customers get high-quality, professional service by trained volunteers who are equipped to identify tax refund opportunities for customers,” said Olson. “Our goal is to help our customers claim all the credits that they have earned and get their maximum refund.”
Starting Monday, January 15, low- to moderate-income individuals and families can call 1-800-660-5430 to determine eligibility and schedule an appointment to have their taxes prepared and e-filed for free. Households that make less than $66,000 may also choose to file online for free at MyFreeTaxes.com.