Free last-minute tax help in Phila.
The Campaign for Working Families is offering free, last-minute tax help at its 14 Philadelphia locations. Tax site locations and hours are listed online at www.phillyfreetaxes.org or call 215-686-2599. The service is courtesy of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly volunteers.
“During these hard times, free tax help can add hundreds of dollars to a family’s resources. Because we file electronically, people get their refund quickly and the returns are accurate,” said Jean Hunt, executive director of The Campaign for Working Families. “Our IRS-certified volunteers serve at the sites because of their commitment to help their neighbors in these difficult days. We want the community to know that our tax sites will be open right up to the deadline, and you can be served.”
Taxpayers earning less than $45,000 (for families) and $20,000 (single people) seeking assistance must have photo identification and Social Security Cards (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers) for themselves, spouses and dependents. They should also bring this year’s tax package (if available), wage and earnings statements (Forms W-2), interest and dividend statements (Forms 1099), a copy of last year’s return, and any other information concerning their income and expenses for 2008. For joint e-filed returns, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms.
E-filing provides the highest degree of speed, accuracy and security in filing tax returns. E-filing is one of the most popular innovations ever introduced by the Internal Revenue Service and has been recognized by both taxpayers and professional return preparers alike for its ability to make filing taxes easier.
The Campaign for Working Families operates free tax sites throughout Philadelphia and connects individuals to the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), PA Tax Forgiveness, other tax credits, public benefits, and asset-building resources. Over the past six years, the Campaign for Working Families has brought $106 million directly into the homes of low-income working families. For more information, visit www.phillyfreetaxes.org.
