Free Tax Help Available for Households Earning $50,000 or Less

MIDDLETOWN—Free tax preparation sites are open now through April 9, 2014 in Middletown for families with a household income of $50,000 or less.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is an official IRS program, and all tax preparers are trained and certified to ensure that low- to moderate-income families receive the refunds and credits that they have earned, including the federal and state Earned Income Tax Credits and the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit.

In 2013, the two VITA sites in Middletown helped nearly 450 Middlesex County residents file their taxes for free and returned $578,000 back to taxpayers. Those who filed with Middletown VITA sites had an average Adjusted Gross Income of $20,053 and received an average refund of almost $1,620, money they have earned. This impacts not only those who filed their taxes, but also their families and the local economy.

Appointments are required and are being offered during the evenings and on Saturdays at the Middlesex United Way office and at the North End Action Team. To make an appointment, dial 2-1-1 on your phone.

Individuals should bring a checkbook or voided check for direct deposit of their refund. Direct deposit is the quickest way to receive the refund, usually within one to two weeks.

When attending their pre-scheduled appointment, individuals should bring: valid photo ID; social security cards or ITIN; documentation for all income; documentation for deductible education expenses and student loan payments; birth dates for everyone in the family; interest and dividend statements; total amount paid for child care as well as day care provider’s tax identification number and address; a copy of last year’s federal and state income tax returns, if available; and the current year’s tax package if you received one.

Middletown VITA sites are coordinated by the Middlesex VITA Coalition, a partnership of Middlesex United Way and the North End Action Team (NEAT). The Middlesex VITA Coalition receives support from the Connecticut Association of Human Services (CAHS).