Free Income Tax Preparation Available for Oakland County Residents

Oakland County Treasurer Andy Meisner and volunteers from the Accounting Aid Society (AAS) want to make sure families receive every last dollar they’re entitled to at tax time.

AAS volunteers will be in the Board of Commissioners Auditorium in Pontiac from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday beginning Jan. 24 to offer free income tax return preparation and advice to low-income residents.

“I am committed to financial empowerment of all Oakland County residents,” Meisner said. “Free income tax preparation for families means more money available for other needs, like paying for the mortgage, health care and school supplies.”

Families who made less than $53,000 in 2014 or individuals who made less than $35,000 are eligible for the AAS’s free income tax services, which include preparation of federal, state and city income tax returns, filing for all applicable tax credits, e-filing and setting up direct deposit to ensure taxpayers receive their full refund. The service runs through April 11. AAS President Kathleen Hatke Aro said many families often overlook items at tax time that could increase their refund.

“Millions of dollars in credits for earned income, property taxes, home heating and many more often go unclaimed,” she said. “Our volunteer preparers help families secure these credits and refunds to save for their future.”

Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are preferred. Taxpayers can call 248-716-3260 to schedule a meeting and visit www.accountingaidsociety.org for a list of documents they’ll need to bring with them.

The AAS also offers free software to anyone who made less than $58,000 last year. Taxpayers pay nothing to electronically file their returns using one of two free programs and can get advice using the society’s support hotline. Visit the AAS online to learn more.