But there is help out there -- free help -- for low-to-moderate income residents thanks to AARP Foundation's Hudson Valley CA$H Coalition.
Last year, 7,655 residents of Dutchess and Orange counties (an increase of more than 500 individuals) received help with their taxes.
Receiving help is easy. Just pick up the phone and schedule an appointment through United Way’s Hudson Valley Region 2-1-1 Helpline (or by dialing 1-800-899-1479) from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
“Last year, $6,176,853 million was returned in the form of tax credits and refunds to people who need it most in our community,” noted Jeannie Montano, president and CEO of United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region. “Part of the mission of United Way is fighting for the financial stability of every person in our community. We hope that individuals, families, and seniors will take advantage of this free help and call 2-1-1 to schedule an appointment.”
The 36 tax preparation locations are located throughout Dutchess and Orange Counties and will be staffed six-days-a-week, including evenings and weekends from February 1 through April 15.
Assistance will also be available for the hearing-impaired and for those who need a translator. The tax service is open to area residents of all ages who meet eligibility guidelines. AARP membership is not required.
In Dutchess County, there are 20 free Hudson Valley CA$H Coalition tax preparation sites located in Beacon (2), Dover Plains, Fishkill, Hopewell Junction (2), Hyde Park, Millbrook, Millerton, Pleasant Valley, Poughkeepsie (6), Rhinebeck, Staatsburg, Stanfordville, and Wappinger Falls.
To find out if you qualify, call 2-1-1 and a call specialist will review eligibility, make an appointment, provide directions to the appropriate tax site, and provide a complete list of required documents needed for the appointment.
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