100 Volunteers Wanted: Learn valuable skills and help eligible workers receive the Earned Income Tax Credit refund

PRESS RELEASE

Media Contacts
Patricia A. Ellis, 313-226-9484 or pager, 313-840-1948
Megan Bracket, 313-226-9409 or pager, 313-840-4321

DETROIT–Here’s an opportunity to learn a valuable skill, get the latest information on tax issues and help low-income working families and individuals increase their after-tax income by receiving the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) refund. EITC is a federal tax refund to help low-income working individuals and families build assets by increasing savings and reducing debt.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan, in partnership with Accounting Aid Society and several other organizations, is recruiting 100 volunteers by Feb. 6 to assist with tax preparation to help eligible low-income working families receive the EITC. Volunteers will receive free training, learn valuable information on tax issues and tax credits as well as learn how to use tax software. Volunteers who successfully complete the training will be certified in tax preparation. Volunteers must:

• be at least 18 years of age
• be familiar with operating a computer
• agree to volunteer at one of the free tax preparation sites once trained and certified
• be willing to make a difference in the lives of others

Once certified, participants will volunteer their time at one of the 30 free tax preparation sites in southeastern Michigan to help low-income working residents file their tax return and claim the tax benefits they’re entitled to. Working individuals who received less that $12,120 in 2006 would be eligible to receive up to $412 in tax credits; families consisting of one parent and one child who earned less that $32,001 in 2006 would be eligible for a credit up to $2,747. EITC tax refund could go as high as $4,500 based on the number of dependents in working families.

This valuable service helps low-income working families build assets for the future and also increases income coming back into the region.

“We have an opportunity to help thousands of people gain greater financial independence,” said Michael J. Brennan, president & CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “With 100 or more trained volunteers donating their time to do tax preparation, we can help serve the 20 – 25 percent of qualifying taxpayers who never claim their tax credit, resulting in millions of unclaimed EITC refunds. I encourage all companies, universities, retirees and community groups to support this volunteer effort, which will make a significant financial difference in the lives of others.”

Help working families gain financial stability. Sign up to volunteer by Feb. 6. Call United Way at 313-226-9430, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., or go to www.uwsem.org and click “Help Your Community”.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Torch Drive and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.uwsem.org.

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