Free tax help returns to Portage County starting in January

Metro Wire Staff

STEVENS POINT — Free tax preparation services will again be available in Portage County this winter for seniors, people with disabilities, and residents with low to moderate incomes.

Residents can begin checking eligibility and scheduling appointments starting Wednesday, Jan. 14, by calling United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline or toll-free at (800) 922-5590. Scheduling will be available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tax preparation appointments will run from Feb. 2 through April 13.

The services are offered through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and the AARP Tax-Aide program. Both provide free basic income tax return preparation and electronic filing for eligible individuals and families.

VITA services are coordinated through CAP Services and are available to residents who meet income guidelines. IRS-certified volunteers assist with federal and state tax returns, including Wisconsin Homestead Tax Credit filings.

The AARP Tax-Aide program focuses on taxpayers age 50 and older with low to moderate incomes and specializes in tax issues common to seniors. The program is offered through a partnership involving the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Portage County, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and the Portage County Public Library.

Residents who only need help filing a Wisconsin Homestead Tax Credit return and want assistance at the ADRC at Lincoln Center should call 715-346-1401 to schedule an appointment. All other tax assistance appointments must be scheduled through United Way’s 2-1-1 service.

Tax assistance will be available at several Stevens Point locations:

• ADRC at Lincoln Center, 1519 Water St. — Thursdays and Fridays
• Portage County Public Library, 1001 Main St. — Saturdays
• Mid-State Technical College, 1001 CenterPoint Drive — Mondays and Saturdays

More information is available by calling United Way’s 2-1-1 starting Jan. 14.