United Way of Mercer County’s (UWGMC) Free Tax Preparation Program serves individuals and families struggling to make ends meet. For more than a decade, households earning less than $65,000 per year have relied on this service. Those getting a refund use it to boost their limited family budget which includes covering food expenses, rent and transportation.
Despite being under a pandemic, UWGMC is making this vital program available through April 15 at the United Way office in Lawrenceville and The Salvation Army in Trenton.
“We’re here to help struggling families get back on their feet,” said Sandra Toussaint, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Mercer County. “COVID-19 has taken its toll on so many including those who were barely hanging on prior to the pandemic. We urge the Mercer County community not to miss out on this opportunity.”
The Free Tax Program aims to create a pathway to financial security for struggling families. For many households, tax refunds are the single largest income supplement they receive in a year. Last year, despite closures related to COVID-19, UWGMC’s free tax preparation program helped more than 1,300 families and individuals file their tax returns.
United Way is helping to put money back in people’s pockets. The Earned Income Credit (EITC) is a refundable tax credit for low- to moderate-income working individuals and couples, particularly those with children. In addition to providing a financial boost for working families, the EITC brings dollars back to the community. Research has shown that the EITC encourages work, reduces poverty and leads to long-term gains in child health and academic success.
Individuals and families utilizing UWGMC’s free tax preparation services can save on often-excessive filing fees, avoid scams like predatory loans disguised as instant tax refunds and get connected to federal resources like healthcare and food assistance.
To schedule a free virtual tax preparation appointment, call 609-896-1912 or visit www.uwgmc.org/freetaxprogram. Information is also available in Spanish.
