Volunteer Tax Preparers Can Connect Taxpayers with Tax Credits

by | Feb 6, 2024 | Regional News

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2024

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Treasury: Volunteer Tax Preparers Can Connect Taxpayers with Tax Credits, Other Benefits

Low-to-Moderate Income, Older Taxpayers
Encouraged to Seek Assistance

LANSING, Mich. – With the quintupling of the Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit for Working Families from 6% to 30% and other tax benefits on the table this year, the Michigan Department of Treasury is encouraging low-to-moderate income taxpayers to find qualified professional or volunteer tax preparers to ensure no benefits are left behind.

“Eligible taxpayers could miss out on valuable tax benefits if they don’t file a tax return or incorrectly file a tax return,” said State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. “Volunteer preparers can help taxpayers receive the most deductions and credits possible. These benefits can reduce the amount of tax owed or even create a refund. Please connect with the tax preparation assistance that fits your situation.”

The Internal Revenue Service’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic return preparation to qualified individuals. Generally, assistance from VITA or TCE is available to taxpayers who meet one of the following conditions:

  • Your income is $60,000 or less.
  • You are a person with a disability.
  • You speak limited or no English.
  • You are age 60 or older.

For information about free tax help, go to irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep or dial 2-1-1. Additional free tax help can be found at www.michiganfreetaxhelp.org.

The Michigan Department of Treasury provides guidance online about finding a qualified, paid tax preparer.

Under state law, taxpayers are responsible for the content within their tax returns and for any additional payments, penalty and interest that may result from a tax preparer’s error. While the state of Michigan does not require tax preparers to be licensed, many are licensed, certified and belong to professional organizations that require a minimum level of education and provide ongoing training.

To learn more about Michigan’s individual income tax and choosing a tax preparer, go to www.michigan.gov/incometax.