With Tax Day Approaching, Volunteers Are Available To Help Taxpayers File Their Returns

Tax season is upon us, and for those that make $49,000 or less free tax-preparation services will be available Saturday, March 26, in Lemon Grove. The services will be provided at Assemblyman Marty Block’s office on the second floor of 7144 Broadway from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Appointments are required as space is limited. Block’s office can be reached at 619-462-7878 to schedule an appointment. Participants will need to bring:

• Valid photo ID.
• Social Security Card or Individual Taxpayer Identification number for all family members.
• All W-2s, 1098s and 1099s, if any.
• Copy of last year’s return.
• Bank account and routing number to direct deposit any refund.
• Any other income or expense information.
• Total tuition fees and expenses.
• Total expenses paid for day care and the provider’s identifying number.
• Landlord’s name, address and phone number for California renter’s credit.

The service is provided through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, which also offers free tax help on Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Lemon Grove Community Center from 5:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Volunteers can assist households that make $49,000 or less, and appointments are suggested, although walk-ins are welcome to drop by to see if a preparer is available.

 To see if you’re eligible and to make an appointment, call Home Start at 619-283-3624 or email taxes@home-start.org.

San Diego County’s Health and Human Services Agency also offers free tax assistance at more than 70 locations countywide through mid-April. The service helps taxpayers claim Earned Income Tax Credits, which help low-income families and individuals. Locally, about $77 million worth of credits go unclaimed each year, according to the county.

Taxpayers can call 211 to make an appointment.

Last year, San Diego County established a partnership with several higher-education institutions that arranged for college students to screen tax filers to determine if they qualify for CalFresh, formerly known as food stamps.

“The EITC program is a great opportunity for low-income families and individuals to supplement their income,” said Nick Macchione, HHSA Director. “The screening for CalFresh eligibility is an important component because it helps families determine if they qualify for the benefit which could allow them to buy more healthy and nutritious foods.”