UNITED WAY FOCUSES IN ON TAX CREDITS FOR ROCKLANDERS

PRESS RELEASE

Last year over $631,000 was returned in Earned Income Tax Credits in Rockland County. Needs are greater than ever, and again this year The United Way of Rockland County and AARP have teamed up to expand their outreach and help even more people receive the tax credits for which they are eligible. “The goal is to increase the EITC dollar number every year,” said Mimi Vilord, President and CEO of the United Way. “Not only does this refund bring added relief to struggling residents, but most dollars are spent in the County and thus support the local economy.” CASH – Creating Assets, Savings and Hope – provides free tax preparation by AARP Tax-Aide certified volunteers to all taxpayers with middle and low incomes, including those who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

In addition to free tax preparation, United Way volunteers will be on site with information on programs and services offered in the county and to assist in determining benefit eligibility. Partners in the United Way’s CA$H initiative include the County of Rockland Department of Social Services, the IRS, and AARP in addition to organizations such as Catholic Community Services, HACSO, People to People, The Martin Luther King Center, the Rockland YMCA, the Haverstraw Center and Family Resource Centers that are helping with outreach.

The United Way’s CA$H program underscores its commitment to help Rockland residents attain financial stability at a time when the gap between take home wages and essential expenses is growing rapidly. The program will run from February 1 until April 15. Assistance is on a first come first serve basis. (No appointment necessary.) Proof of identity such as a valid driver’s license or other government issued picture ID is required for a return to be completed. For a list of tax sites, documents you need to bring with you or any questions, please call the United Way’s 211 helpline for assistance. United Way of Rockland County is a local, independent non-profit dedicated to building a stronger Rockland community.

  AARP, Earned Income Tax Credits, Rockland, Tax Credits, United Way