After a successful shift in operations during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect the safety and well-being of volunteers, staff and participants, United Way of the Mid-South’s Free Tax Prep is continuing their Drive-Thru Drop-Off tax preparation for the extended season. During this time of uncertainty and financial crisis, it is of utmost importance to help low to moderate income families get access to any funds that will continue moving them from where they are to where they dream to be.
The unprecedented Drive-Thru Drop-Off service is a creative, low-risk alternative that allows filers to submit their tax return documents to process their refunds without ever leaving their vehicle, meeting social distancing guidelines.
Amidst the pandemic, the IRS extended the regular filing deadline to July 15th, 2020. Beginning Monday, May 11th, Free Tax Prep’s Drive-Thru Drop-Off will be open to file current year returns, prior year returns and amended returns. Participants will still need to bring all appropriate documentation. A “Stimulus Hotline” will be activated to help individuals understand their eligibility. The hotline will also provide resources to prepare “stimulus” related returns and to check the status of the current payment. All services will be open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and will be closed for holidays May 23rd, May 25th, July 3rd, and July 4th.
“The adaptability of the Free Tax Prep program allowed us to file 700 returns, generating over $600,000 in refunds during the three weeks of our Drive-Thru Drop-Off service, which temporarily closed on April 15th,” said Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., President & CEO, United Way of the Mid-South. “These numbers make it evident that we must continue meeting the needs of our neighbors in this versatile way, ensuring individuals are able to make the most of their refunds.
No appointment is necessary. Individuals can call the United Way of the Mid-South Relief Call Center, powered by Driving The Dream at (888) 709-0630 for more information.