United Way of Abilene

A team of community volunteers will help eligible working families claim the Earned Income Tax Credit, which could total more than $5,700 this year. In 2011, volunteers and staff at the Center for Economic Opportunity filed 842 tax returns, helping individuals or families claim more than $1.5 million in tax refunds.

Free tax preparation will also be available in surrounding counties. Community members may call 2-1-1 Texas A Call for Help for details of locations and times as they become available.

Tax preparation services at the Center for Economic Opportunity are free, but individuals should bring the following items to the tax preparation sites to maximize their return:
• Valid Photo ID (Driver’s License, State ID or Student ID)
• Social Security Cards (all household members)
• All 2011 W-2, 1099 & 1098 forms
• Blank Check with routing number & account number
• Receipts for charitable gifts, medical expenses (including insurance), college expenses (including books), or child care expenses
• New car bill of sale

In addition to tax preparation services, the West Central Texas Center for Economic Opportunity, provides student financial aid information, small business support, financial literacy courses and helps people buy a home, advance their education or start a business through Individual Development Accounts. The Center is part of a Community Initiative led by the United Way of Abilene in partnership with Dodge Jones Foundation to help promote financial stability and independence for area families.