Program Offers Free Income Tax Assistance

By Melissa Maynarich, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- This tax season, wouldn't you like to keep more money in your pocket? Free tax help is available for Oklahomans, starting today. There's one requirement. Your combined income has to be less than $50,000 in 2009.

The Community Action Agency is taking clients on a first come first served basis. It's a program that's helping a number of Oklahomans in the tough economy.

Sheila Mason is one of the first clients at the Community Action Agency's Free Tax Income Assistance Program this season.

"I'm on a set amount monthly that I live no and I would not be able to afford paying someone to do my taxes," Mason said.

Certified volunteers have been trained to prepare basic tax returns. They can also help with special credits, such as Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled.

Their goal is to help.

"The joy to see they're getting a large refund and they're not paying for it, it's wonderful," said Christina Vass of the Community Action Agency. "Your heart just goes out to them."

Preparers also help people through the Individual Tax Identification Number Program for those without a Social Security card.

You'll need photo id, a Social Security card for each person listed, W2's, 10-99's, daycare expenses and day care tax id number if applicable.

Electronically filing gets your refund to your faster.

This year, you can also get money back on a debit card.

"With the economy the way it is, there are a lot of people out there that do need the free help, they just may not know that it's available," Vass said.

Mason already has plans for her refund.

"I am going to do repairs on my car and do some fixing up around my house," said Mason. "I'm going to make it look nicer cause it's a nice home already."

To find out if you qualify, call (405)232-0199 or visit the Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma/Canadian Counties, Inc. Web site.

View the nine metro locations and information on what to bring with you for tax preparation.