The Lincoln Center, 1519 Water St. (Metro Wire photo)

Portage County offers free tax assistance for seniors, low-income residents

Metro Wire Staff

PORTAGE COUNTY — Local organizations and volunteers are preparing to offer free tax assistance to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low- to moderate-income residents of Portage County.

The program, supported by United Way of Portage County, the Community Services Block Grant, and Mid-State Technical College, begins Feb. 1 and runs through April 15.

Residents can check eligibility and schedule appointments by dialing United Way’s 2-1-1 or (800) 922-5590, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., starting Jan. 15.

Tax preparation services will be provided through two key programs:

  • Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), coordinated by CAP Services, offers free basic income tax preparation and Homestead Tax Credit filing for qualified individuals and families. IRS-certified volunteers will help those who meet income eligibility requirements.
  • AARP Tax-Aide Program, a partnership between the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Lincoln Center, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), and the Portage County Public Library, focuses on assisting taxpayers over 50 with low to moderate income. The program specializes in handling tax questions unique to seniors.

Anyone who only needs to file a Wisconsin Homestead Tax Credit return at Lincoln Center can call (715) 346-1401 directly for an appointment. All other tax assistance appointments must be made through United Way’s 2-1-1 service.

Appointments will be available at the following locations:

  • Aging and Disability Resource Center – Lincoln Center, 1519 Water St., Stevens Point: Thursday and Friday appointments.
  • Portage County Public Library, 1001 Main St., Stevens Point: Saturday appointments.
  • Mid-State Technical College, 1001 CenterPoint Drive, Stevens Point: Tuesday and Saturday appointments.

For more information, contact United Way’s 2-1-1 service.