Q. Where can I get my taxes done free-of-charge?
A. If you are computer savvy and made less than $66,000 in 2018, you can file both your state and federal taxes online at www.myfreetaxes.com. This free and safe service includes live tax support, via email, chat or phone, to answer any questions you have. If you made less than $54,000 in 2018 and need assistance in preparing your tax return, there are several places where trained volunteers will prepare basic federal and state tax returns, as well as homestead property tax credit and home heating credit, for low-income individuals, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Complex tax returns and those involving business pursuits need to be completed through a tax preparation service.
In Berrien and Cass counties, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program sites include Orchards Mall – Suite 344, St. John’s Catholic Church at 600 Columbus Avenue in Benton Harbor, Niles District Library, and Cass District Library. There are also appointments available in Van Buren County through Senior Services there. In addition, the AARP Tax Aide program operates from several of the area Senior Centers.
To schedule a VITA appointment in Berrien or Cass County, call 2-1-1 or 800-563-5432, and in Van Buren County call 269-655-8000. Walk-ins are also available in Van Buren County at the United Way offices, 181 W. Michigan Ave, Suite 4, Paw Paw, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-6pm and at Department of Health & Human Services offices in Hartford from 10am-3pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in February and in April, and on Wednesdays and Thursdays in March.
For the AARP Tax Aide program, contact the location directly to schedule an appointment. Free tax preparers and sites can also be found at www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/ or www.accountingaidsociety.org. You can also call the AAA Info-Line for Aging and Disability, at 800-654-2810, and we will help to find a location near you. Slots fill up quickly, so call to get an appointment as soon as you have your paperwork organized.
For your appointment, you will need to have a valid photo ID, Social Security cards for anyone listed on the return, statements of income and any tax forms you have received, as well as proof of expenses such as mortgage or rent receipts, property tax bills, heating bills, and medical bills. You should obtain a complete list of the documents to bring when you make your tax appointment.
Q. My neighbors told me I should try to get a home heating tax credit. How do I find out if I qualify?
A. The Michigan Home Heating Credit (HHC) is a way the State of Michigan helps to pay some of your heating expenses if you are a qualified Michigan homeowner or renter. If you use a large portion of your monthly income on your home heating expenses, you might be eligible. To see if you qualify, file the Home Heating Credit Claim MI-1040CR-7.
A certified tax preparer, including any of the free tax volunteer programs noted in the previous question, can help determine if you qualify for the HHC. You do not have to file a Michigan tax return in order to apply for the HHC. The credit is designed to provide assistance to low income, deaf, disabled or blind persons and disabled veterans, however, Michigan residents who are not in these groups may also qualify for the credit. The deadline for filing is September 30, 2019. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/taxes.