United Way of The Mid-South has partnered with the Internal Revenue Service to help Mid-Southerners file their taxes and receive their full refund with no strings attached. Last year, the Free Tax Prep program brought more than $12 million in refunds to over 8,400 people.
This year, United Way of the Mid-South hopes it has served more residents and brought more refunds to support the Tri-State economy. Although the regular tax season ended April 18, Free Tax Prep volunteers will continue to serve people who need to make file amended taxes or are filing late at our Hickory Ridge Mall Free Tax Prep supersite in May and June.
“Our volunteers have been working tirelessly this year, staying after hours to help people get what they need,” says Yvonne Howard, Free Tax Prep program coordinator.
Volunteers, who have signed up through their employers or the UWMS website, have gone above and beyond, providing financial advice for greater self-sufficiency or offering a listening ear for those who have had anxiety and fear about filing their taxes.
“I know many people who have just been floored by the great attitudes and generosity of the volunteers,” Bobbie Chambers said after having her taxes filed at one of our mobile library locations. “If I had the money, I would pay them something. I wish I had the resources to pay them.”
Ms. Chambers was having a hard time finding the time to file her taxes and taking care of her grandson who had fallen ill. She heard about the Free Tax Prep program and decided to give it a try.
“I was not there long and was surprised how fast they took care of me,” said Chambers.
Phelicia Stuckey is a new volunteer to the Free Tax Program. She carries a smile and a heart full of love and laughter to help ease the process for customers.
“I love to help people,” said Stuckey. “I like to make people feel comfortable so I keep candy at my station with a little decor. look forward to doing this again next year.”
Stuckey also files her taxes through the Free Tax Program and wanted to offer her services to UWMS to reciprocate the generosity and service she received.
“This can be a stressful time for people, and I like to help any way I can.”
______________________
United Way Free Tax Prep supersite at Hickory Ridge Mall will help people with continuing tax issues on Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 11 through June 29. People in households with $54,000 or less annual income should bring a picture I.D., W-2 and 1099 forms, a copy of the original tax return to be amended, a social security card for everyone listed on the return, proof of health insurance (if available), Form 1095s, and any letters or transcripts the IRS has sent. The Free Tax Prep supersite cannot prepare K-I’s, Schedule D, Schedule E, or Schedule F. Call 901.433.4364 to schedule an appointment!