from The Morning Journal: Make appointments now with Lorain County Free Tax Prep Coalition

By Aliah Kimbro

The United Way of Greater Lorain County is accepting appointments for its Free Tax Prep Coalition program.

The Lorain County Free Tax Prep Coalition Partners are AARP, city of Lorain, Elyria Public Library System, IRS, Lorain Public Library System, Ohio Means Jobs, PNC Bank and the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland.

Colleen Walts, marketing and engagement director for the United Way of Lorain County, said the agencies are hoping to ease the burden on residents.

“This is a really exciting program, because it’s one of the ways that we get to keep money in the pockets of our residents that they can then use to boost our local economy,” Walts said. “It’s helpful for everyone on all fronts.”

United Way of Lorain County volunteers will prepare taxes for families with an average gross income less than $60,000.

“We’re really proud of our initiatives that span across the board and support everyone that we can,” Walts said. “Whether they are an individual or business, we’re here to help them.”

The program is completely volunteer based, she said.

“We have around 25 IRS-certified volunteers who help provide these services,” Walts said. “Last year, we filed around 1,600 returns, which is very exciting, but we know we’re only beginning to scratch the surface of our community’s needs.

“The more volunteers we have to help us out, enables us to expand our reach and increase capacity.”

Tax preparation will be available at the West River Branch of the Elyria Public Library System, 1194 W. River Road North; Lorain Public Library System Main Branch, 351 W. Sixth St. in Lorain; Ohio Means Jobs, 42495 North Ridge Road in Elyria Township; and the United Way of Lorain County, 642 Broadway in downtown Lorain.

Appointments can be made by calling 2-1-1, Lorain’s community referral and crisis hotline.

“It’s a really great way for our 2-1-1 representatives to connect with residents and catch any additional needs that any folks may be experiencing,” Walts said.

The appointment portal opened Jan. 17. Appointments will begin Feb. 6.

For more information, visit loraincountyfreetaxprep.org.

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Source: The Morning Journal - Make appointments now with Lorain County Free Tax Prep Coalition