Community Action Offers Free Tax Preparation

It’s time to file state and federal income tax returns – a task that can be overwhelming and expensive!  If you’re living on a fixed income and need tax preparation assistance, we can help.

Community Action Planning Council is offering free income tax preparation to low and moderate income households.   Preparation services are available at two locations:

  • Community Action Planning Council – 518 Davidson Street Watertown
    Call 315.782.4900, extension 222 for an appointment

    Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, February 6 – April 12, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
    Saturday appointments available; please call for more information.
  • American Legion – 415 West Street Carthage
    Call 315.493.1545 for an appointment.

    Wednesdays, February 7 – April 11, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

IRS-certified volunteers provide basic income tax return preparation (Forms 1040, 1040-A, 1040-EZ).  Electronic filing and direct deposit are offered.  To qualify for free tax preparation services, household income must not exceed $56,000.  Service is not available to small businesses or military households.   Tax preparation is offered by appointment only.

Individuals seeking free tax preparation services should plan to bring income statements (W-2, unemployment forms, 1099), photo ID, social security cards for all persons in the household, bank routing numbers if filing electronically, form 1095-A if purchased health insurance through the NYS Marketplace, and a copy of last year’s tax return, as well as any other relevant documents.  Last year, Community Action assisted 515 households through the filing process, helping them to qualify for a more than $605,000 in refunds and Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC).

For more information or to make an appointment at the Watertown site, call 315.782.4900, ext. 222. For appointments at the Carthage site, please call 315.493.1545.