GULFPORT, MS (WLOX) -
It's the time of year where people can't wait to turn those W-2s into big tax refund checks. A South Mississippi non-profit wants to help low and middle income families so that they won't have to pay someone to do their taxes. Visions of Hope is offering free tax preparation and e-filing for people who earn $50,000 a year or less.
Sarah Walker is the director of Visions of Hope in Biloxi. She said by working in the community outreach. She said she's seeing first hand how many people are struggling to pay the bills.
"In this economy it's extremely, extremely hard," said Walker. "Keeping housing is hard. Food on the table is hard. Keeping utilities on is hard so any pennies that you can save those pennies turn into dollars."
Visions of Hope is offering free tax preparation and e-filing. People must bring a picture id, social security cards for everyone they want to claim and if needed any mortgage papers showing interest paid and insurance.
"We are trained annually by the IRS therefore we know what the current laws are. We have to take tax law tests annually. So if you come to us we are going to make sure you are given every credit you deserve and that you receive the full refund that you are entitled to," Walker said.
Visions of Hope is also educating the public that, when it comes to tax refunds, a little patience can lead to a big pay-off. The non-profit is trying to steer people away from taking refund anticipation loans.
"We want to let them know, just hold on for two or three more days and you can keep all your money. I don't think they realize just how much they actually pay out in doing that," Walker said. "By the time they pay for the fees associated with the anticipation loan and pay to have your taxes done all of that money can be in your pocket."
Visions of Hope in Biloxi will begin its free service on Tuesday January 24. After that, officials said volunteers will be on hand every Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. You must have an appointment before going by the Division Street office. To make an appointment call 228-435-9200.
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