East Elmhurst, NY — Today, Senator Jose Peralta launched free tax preparation services at his office to ensure constituents keep money in their pockets, especially those who have a hard time making ends meet. As this year’s tax season just kicked off on Monday, tax return preparation will be available starting on Wednesday, February 7. Senator Peralta and Queens-based, Urban Upbound, teamed up to assist Senate District 13 neighbors with their tax filings. Several community leaders were present during the announcement.
“Simply put, offering free tax filings for the members of the community is all about providing a much-needed service for our hard-working class, especially for my constituents who have tough times making ends meet. A good tax return can help families and individuals pay bills, pay some debt or save money for a rainy day,” said Senator Peralta. “I am glad I was able to partner with Urban Upbound to offer these crucial services.”
“NYC Free Tax Prep is a vital service in low income and public housing communities where families depend on their tax refunds to cover living expenses, pay debts, and establish savings. Last year, Urban Upbound processed $15 million in returns, and $135 million in total over the last 14 years. In 2018, we are excited to partner with Senator Jose Peralta to offer free tax prep, as well as access to other critical support services including financial counseling, employment services, banking, and educational services, to residents of the 13th District,” said Founder and CEO of Urban Upbound Bishop Mitchell Taylor.
Urban Upbound, founded in 2004, is a nonprofit that works to break the cycles of poverty in hard-working, low-income and public housing neighborhoods by providing much-needed resources to achieve economic self-sufficiency. It has served 15,000 youth and adults living in public housing and low- and moderate-income neighborhoods in Queens, the Bronx and Harlem.
Senator Peralta encouraged his constituents who earned $66,000 or less to file their free return through this initiative. To have taxes prepared at Senator Peralta’s office, a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site, you will need to bring, if applicable, the following documents:
· Proof of identification, such as a State ID, passport or driver’s license.
· Social Security cards for you, spouse and dependents, or a Social Security number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration.
· Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), in case you don’t have a Social Security number.
· If filing with ITIN, proof of foreign status.
· Birth dates for you, spouse, dependents.
· W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-Misc (Wage and Earning statements) from all employers.
· Interest and dividend statements.
· A copy of last year’s federal and state returns.
· Proof of bank account for direct deposit.
· To file taxes electronically on a married-filing-joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign required forms.
· Total paid for daycare and the daycare provider’s tax filing identifying number.
· Forms 1095-A, B or C, Affordable Health Care Statements.
· Copies of income transcripts from IRS and state.
The free tax preparation service is by appointment only. To make an appointment to file your tax returns, please call (718) 784-0877.
