Our Community Matters: CA$H
Creating Assets, Savings and Hope (CA$H)
CA$H provides free and fast tax assistance service for individuals and working families generally earning less than $50,000 per year.
With sites across Chemung and Steuben Counties, CA$H is a program that provides working families access to tax credits for which they qualify, including State & Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (E.I.T.C.).
Why a Free Tax Assistance Program?
It is estimated that 15% - 20% of eligible households do not access either the state or federal earned income tax credit. This amounts to between $6 - $9 million right here in the Southern Tier that the government keeps. The maximum credit for a family with two or more children is more than [$6,000]. That's money that should be helping local families become more financially stable and get ahead.
Benefits
- It's FAST! by filing electronically, refunds are generally received within 10 days.
- It's FREE! Using a paid preparer can cost $200 or more per person.
- It's YOURS! Working families increase thier income by accessing tax credits they are entitled to.
- Volunteers are trained by IRS-approved specialists.
- Sites are located thoughout Chemung and Steuben Counties.
Targeted Result
Increase the [disposable] income of working families earning less than $50,000 per year.
Save for the Future
Click here for more information about buying U.S. Series I Savings Bonds with your tax refund.
Program Results
The CA$H (Creating Assets, Savings & Hope) volunteer income tax assistance initiative continues to grow. In 2009 (the 2008 tax year), through the efforts of numerous community partners, approximately 3,500 low and moderate-income households in the Southern Tier accessed nearly $6 million in returns that will be reinvested in the local economy.
To host a tax preparation site call the CA$H line at 936-3984 or email Judy Prentice at jp.cash@stny.rr.com.
