La Porte County tax payers who were full-time Indiana residents with adjusted annual gross incomes of $51,000 or less in 2012 can take advantage of a free tax preparation service.
United Way of La Porte County is collaborating with the Swanson Center and the Michigan City Public Library to provide the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) service. All VITA tax returns are filed electronically and are eligible for direct deposit.
David Sisk, Manager of Community Investment for United Way of La Porte County, urges those who are struggling to make ends to avoid paying fees in order to get a rapid refund. "Why borrow money at a high interest rate when you can have your federal money within one or two weeks without a preparation fee?” he said.
To qualify for VITA, your household income cannot include rental income, farm income, adoption credits or small business income. A few other restrictions apply.
Some common credits tax filers may qualify for include the Earned Income Tax Credit (maximum of $5,891) and the Child Tax Credit (maximum of $6,000).
More information is available at www.unitedwaytaxhelp.org or by calling the United Way's toll-free 2-1-1 hotline.