Small Town News

Free tax preparation sites in central Minnesota

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United Way of Central Minnesota (UWCM) is helping to promote the availability of free tax sites and build awareness of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). People can qualify for free tax preparation if they meet the following requirements; have income at or below $30,000 for individuals, $50,000 for families (two or more people). Last year this program had an economic impact of more than $2 million in EITC and tax refunds.

As many as 20-25 percent of eligible workers don't claim EITC. EITC is a federal tax benefit for low-income working families and individuals.

The following is a list of a few free tax preparation sites in Central Minnesota (no appointment necessary):

Catholic Charities, 157 Roosevelt Rd., Suite 100, St. Cloud, MN 56301; OPEN Feb. 2 through April 13, 2010, Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; Express Refund Loans and savings accounts available.

Salvation Army, 400 Hwy. 10 S., St. Cloud, MN 56304; OPEN Jan. 30 through April 14, 2010, Wednesdays, 4-7 p.m., Saturdays, 9 a.m. -noon; Express Refund Loans and savings accounts available.

St. Cloud Technical College, 1540 Northway Dr., St. Cloud, MN 56301; OPEN Jan. 28 through April 15, 2010, Thursdays, 5-7:30 p.m.

To date, these sites have helped file 634 returns. Taxes prepared at these sites are done by IRS-certi-fied tax volunteers with a second review done before they are submitted. Additional services offered include electronic filing, low-cost express refund loans, and access to free savings accounts.

UWCM cares about the financial stability of the community because when we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all. Flyers for distribution are available at <www.unitedwayhelps.org>. For more information and/or a list of additional free tax sites in Central Minnesota call United Way 2-1-1 by dialing 2-1-1 or (800) 543-7709.



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© 2010 Tri-County News Kimball, Minnesota. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from DAS.

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