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CONTACT:
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Tod McKay, Vice President Communications
United Way of Treasure Valley
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United Way’s Free Tax Help Program returns nearly $8 million to Treasure Valley communities
Boise, Idaho – United Way's Free Tax Help Program in partnership with Bank of America and Idaho State Treasurer Ron Crane helped thousands of low-income working individuals and seniors prepare their 2008 tax returns. Under the leadership of AARP Tax-Aide, the IRS, and the Coalition for Economic Improvement (CEI), each site utilized trained volunteers who gave their time in filing 5,946 tax returns for qualified individuals and families throughout the Treasure Valley at no cost to them. 2-1-1 Idaho CareLine provided the link between those needing the service and the free tax sites’ locations, hours of operation, and qualifying information.
Because there was no tax-filing stimulus package this year, the total number of returns filed was down by 20 percent, but the total amount collected in federal tax refunds increased by 12 percent in the Treasure Valley for a total of $7.7 million. Of that amount, nearly $2 million was claimed Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) dollars; up a whopping 16 percent from last year.
“This program has been successful beyond our wildest dreams,” said Sally Zive, United Way of Treasure Valley’s President and CEO. “It would not be possible without the financial and volunteer support of Bank of America and the best spokesperson on financial issues in Idaho, State Treasurer Ron Crane! Our grateful thanks go out to all who are helping those in our community struggling during tough economic times through their support of this vital program.”
EITC is a refundable income tax credit for low-income working individuals and families that has been found to produce substantial increases in employment and reductions in welfare among single parents, as well as large decreases in poverty. Research indicates that families use it to pay for necessities, repair homes and vehicles that are needed to commute to work, and in some cases, to help boost their employability and earning power by obtaining additional education or training. Census data shows that EITC lifts more children out of poverty than any other single program or category of programs. The IRS estimates that annually $11 million in eligible EITC dollars are left unclaimed in the Treasure Valley. United Way's Free Tax Help Program and its partners are working hard to change that.
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About United Way of Treasure Valley
Since 1928, United Way of Treasure Valley has been working to advance the common good by focusing on education, income and health. Our goal is to create long-lasting changes that prevent problems from happening in the first place. We invite everyone to be part of the change. Together, united, we can inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow. To donate, volunteer or learn more, please visit www.helpthemostpeople.com
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