See where you can receive free tax preparation services ahead of the April 18, 2016, income tax filing deadline.
FLEMINGTON -- With only 12 days until income taxes are due, there are several organizations in the area that offer no-charge tax preparation services.
These services are often for those who use standard deductions, or whose itemized deductions are not extensive, or for those who are elderly or with limited income. For those whose tax returns are more complicated or who do not meet the restrictions, there are online filing services and a variety of local tax preparation firms.
United Way of Hunterdon County and United Way of Northern New Jersey are offering the free IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program in Flemington, Clinton, Whitehouse Station, Lambertville and at Raritan Valley Community College in Branchburg through Monday, April 18.
Thanks to Emancipation Day on Friday, April 15, a holiday in Washington, D.C., the tax deadline has been extended to Monday, April 18.
How does it work? The United Way tax program is free of charge and refunds can be e-filed with the IRS in order to receive a faster refund without any fees.
Compare 1976 income tax bill to now
The Flemington location alone has e-filed by 831 returns so far this season.
"Our IRS-Certified tax preparer volunteers are dedicated to helping taxpayers by getting them their maximum refund. We want all of the taxpayers who use our services to leave their tax session confident and satisfied with their experience," said Volunteer Manager Amy Andersen, who oversees the program.
The program has no income limit, but the returns must be simple. Its tax return preparers are unable to assist with complex issues such as farm or rental income and businesses with inventory. Spanish-speaking preparers also are available upon request.
Appointments are necessary and can be scheduled by calling 2-1-1 or 877-652-1148 or online at uwhunterdon.org.
Locations in Hunterdon include United Way headquarters in Flemington, the Polish American Citizens Club in Whitehouse Station, the Town of Clinton municipal building and the Lambertville Justice Center.
Find more locations and directions at irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep
If you prefer to do your taxes on your own, free online tax preparation is also available at myfreetaxes.com for families with a combined income below $60,000.
Emily Cummins may be reached at ecummins@njadvancemedia.com Follow her on Twitter @EmilyACummins and Facebook.